These spooky Graveyard Chocolate Pudding Cups are a fun treat for any Halloween party! With creamy chocolate pudding topped with crunchy cookie crumbs, they look like little graves.
Add gummy worms and spooky decorations to make them extra cute! I love how easy they are to whip up—perfect for a last-minute dessert that everyone will enjoy. 🍬🪦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: You can use whole or 2% milk for a creamier pudding. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, almond milk or coconut milk could work well too. Just note that the flavor might be slightly different!
Instant chocolate pudding mix: This is essential for a quick dessert. If you can’t find it, try using a homemade chocolate pudding recipe or even a different flavor pudding for a twist.
Heavy cream: This adds richness and helps create a fluffy texture. For a lighter option, you could use whipped topping, but it might not be as creamy. Coconut cream is also a great non-dairy substitute!
Chocolate sandwich cookies: Oreos are classic for this recipe, but you can use any chocolate cookie you like. For a healthier twist, try crushed graham crackers or cacao nibs!
Candy decorations: I love using candy corn and gummy worms, but feel free to substitute with any festive chocolates or candies for a spooky look, like skeleton gummies or chocolate bats!
How Do I Get Perfectly Whipped Cream?
Whipping cream to the right consistency can be tricky. To make the process easier, here are some tips for achieving those lovely stiff peaks:
- Start with cold heavy cream; this helps it whip up faster.
- Use a chilled bowl and beaters—put them in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes before whipping.
- Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, then add powdered sugar and vanilla, continuing until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or it can turn into butter!
With these tips and ingredient choices, you’ll create delightful and spooky Graveyard Chocolate Pudding Cups that everyone will love! Enjoy!
Graveyard Chocolate Pudding Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 package (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), divided
- 6 chocolate sandwich cookies (whole), for decoration
- Chocolate syrup, for drizzling
- Candy corn and colorful gummy worms, for decoration
- Edible tombstone decorations (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun and spooky dessert will take about 20 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll find that the chilling time makes the flavors come together perfectly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chocolate Pudding:
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk and instant chocolate pudding mix for about 2 minutes until it thickens up. This should only take a minute or two! Once blended, put it in the fridge for about 5 minutes to let it set even more.
2. Whip the Cream:
Grab another bowl and beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you reach stiff peaks. This means the cream should hold its shape when you lift the beater out—so fluffy and light!
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture. Take your time and be careful not to deflate the whipped cream. This is what will make your pudding light and mousse-like!
4. Prepare the Cups:
Now, drizzle some chocolate syrup inside clear serving cups, swirling it around the edges for a fun effect. It will look great and taste amazing!
5. Fill the Cups:
Spoon the chocolate pudding mixture into each cup, filling them almost to the top but leaving just a little space for the fun toppings.
6. Add the “Dirt”:
Take your crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and sprinkle a generous layer on top. This will resemble “dirt” for your graveyard scene!
7. Create Tombstones:
Insert one whole chocolate sandwich cookie vertically into the “dirt” to make a cute little tombstone. You can even add edible tombstone decorations if you have them!
8. Add Tasty Toppings:
Now for the fun part! Scatter candy corn and colorful gummy worms over the top for that perfect graveyard look. The more colorful, the better!
9. Chill and Serve:
If you’d like, drizzle a little more chocolate syrup on top for extra flair. Then, cover the cups and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let all those flavors meld together.
Enjoy your spooky and delicious Graveyard Chocolate Pudding Cups with friends and family! Perfect for Halloween parties or just a fun treat anytime! 🎃🍫
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Pudding?
Absolutely! While chocolate is a classic choice, you can use vanilla or even butterscotch pudding for a unique twist. Just keep in mind the visuals of your graveyard theme!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. For the heavy cream, use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping for a similar texture.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! Instead of candy corn and gummy worms, try chocolate bats, mini marshmallows, or even crushed pretzels for a salty contrast. The goal is fun and festive!
How Long Do These Last in the Fridge?
These pudding cups can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover them well to keep everything fresh and delicious!