There’s something about a minty, creamy dessert that just feels like a little celebration—especially when everything’s tinted that cheerful shade of green. The first time I made these No-Bake Shamrock Shake Cheesecake Cups, I told myself they were “just for fun”… and then I caught myself sneaking spoonfuls from the bowl like it was my job. 🙃
If you love that classic Shamrock Shake vibe, these cups deliver it in dessert form: an Oreo cookie crust, a fluffy mint cheesecake layer, a cool mint pudding layer, and a cloud of whipped topping finished with chocolate chips and shamrock sprinkles. They’re perfect for St. Patrick’s Day parties, classroom treats, or honestly… a Tuesday that needs a little sparkle.
Why You’ll Love These Shamrock Shake Cups
- No oven required (the fridge does all the work)
- Layered and pretty for parties and potlucks
- Minty, creamy, and totally nostalgic
- Easy to switch the colors/sprinkles for other holidays
Ingredients You’ll Need
Layer 1: Oreo Cookie Crust
- 24 Oreo cookies, crushed (about 2 sleeves)
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
Layer 2: Mint Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 8 ounces Cool Whip original, thawed
Layer 3: Mint Pudding Layer
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) Jell-O vanilla instant pudding
- 1 3/4 cups cold milk
- 1 teaspoon mint extract
- Green food coloring, a few drops (adjust to your preferred shade)
Topping
- 8 ounces Cool Whip extra creamy, thawed
- 1/4 cup miniature chocolate chips (optional)
- Green candy sprinkles (optional, but so festive!)
How to Make No-Bake Shamrock Shake Cheesecake Cups
This dessert looks like it has a lot going on, but it’s actually very simple—just mix, layer, chill, and decorate.
1) Make the Oreo crust
Crush the Oreos into fine crumbs using a food processor. No processor? Add cookies to a large zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
Mix the crumbs with the melted butter, then press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish to form an even crust. Pop it in the refrigerator while you work on the next layer.
2) Whip up the mint cheesecake layer
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and peppermint extract with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy. Spread this layer evenly over the chilled cookie crust, then return the dish to the refrigerator.
3) Mix the mint pudding layer
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla instant pudding, cold milk, mint extract, and a few drops of green food coloring.
Use a hand mixer to whip until thickened (about 5 minutes). Carefully spread the pudding layer over the cheesecake layer.
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours so everything sets up nicely.
4) Top and decorate
Once chilled and set, spread the extra creamy Cool Whip over the top. Finish with mini chocolate chips and shamrock sprinkles (or whatever festive sprinkles match your occasion!).
Tips for the Best Layers
- Soften the cream cheese fully so the cheesecake layer stays smooth (no lumps!).
- Add food coloring a drop at a time—it deepens fast.
- When spreading layers, a spatula or the back of a spoon helps keep everything neat.
- For extra clean cuts (if serving from a dish), chill longer—overnight is even better.
Easy Variations
This dessert is surprisingly easy to “theme” for other holidays:
- Swap the green food coloring for red/pink and use heart sprinkles for Valentine’s Day.
- Use pastel colors and spring sprinkles for Easter.
- Keep it classic mint-green but try different toppings—extra Oreos, chocolate shavings, or crushed Andes-style mints (just as garnish, not a required ingredient).
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make ahead: This can be made up to 2 days in advance. Cover tightly and keep refrigerated until serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze it for up to 1 month. Wrap well with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
No-Bake Shamrock Shake Cheesecake Cups Recipe
This indulgent dessert starts with a buttery Oreo crust, then layers of mint cheesecake and mint pudding, finished with whipped topping and festive sprinkles—perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.