You want a dessert that doubles as a party trick? Meet Lucky Charms pudding shots: creamy, boozy, and unapologetically nostalgic. They taste like childhood—then absolutely don’t. You’ll mix marshmallow magic with adult-level fun, and honestly, it’s the kind of chaos your dessert table deserves. Ready to stir up some mischief?
Why Lucky Charms Pudding Shots Just Work
Lucky Charms already do the heavy lifting: sweet, crunchy cereal with those pastel marshmallows that never quite feel like real food—but in the best way. Pair that with silky pudding and a splash (fine, a generous glug) of booze and bam: dessert with personality.
They’re easy, they look adorable, and they hit that perfect spot between creamy and crispy. Also, FYI, they disappear from a tray faster than you can say “they’re magically…”—you know the rest.
The Essential Ingredient Lineup
Let’s keep this manageable. You don’t need a chef hat—just a mixing bowl and fifteen minutes.
- Instant pudding mix (vanilla or white chocolate works best)
- Cold milk (2% or whole for better texture)
- Irish cream liqueur (Baileys or similar)
- Whipped topping (thawed)
- Lucky Charms cereal (separate a handful of marshmallows for garnish)
- Vanilla vodka (optional, but fun)
- Mini cups (2-ounce plastic or glass)
Flavor Add-Ins That Slap
Want extra depth? Stir in:
- Marshmallow creme for extra sweetness and fluff
- Pinch of salt to balance the sugar
- Almond extract for a bakery vibe (go light!)
How to Make Them (No Drama, Just Steps)
You’ll nail this. Promise.
- Whisk the pudding base: In a bowl, whisk 1 box of instant pudding with 1 cup cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add the spirits: Stir in 1/2 cup Irish cream. If you want stronger shots, add 1/4 cup vanilla vodka and reduce the milk a bit so it still sets.
- Fold in the fluff: Gently fold in 1 cup whipped topping. Don’t beat it like it owes you money; keep it airy.
- Layer and fill: Add a tiny sprinkle of cereal to the bottoms of your mini cups (for crunch). Spoon or pipe the pudding mixture on top.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. The texture sets up nicely, and the flavors make friends.
- Garnish before serving: Top with more whipped topping and a few Lucky Charms marshmallows. Add a cereal rim if you feel fancy.
Pro Tips So They Don’t Flop
- Use cold milk so the pudding sets fast.
- Chill the bowl if your kitchen runs hot.
- Garnish last-minute so the cereal stays crunchy, IMO the crunch matters.
- Test one shot for texture before filling all the cups.
Make Them Cute (Because We Eat With Our Eyes)
You don’t need a pastry degree. You just need a zip-top bag and confidence.
Easy Presentation Ideas
- Rainbow rim: Dip cup rims in melted white chocolate, then in crushed cereal. Let it set before filling.
- Swirl top: Pipe a whipped cream swirl and drop on a few marshmallow charms—stars, hearts, moons, all the chaotic energy.
- Mini spoons: Colorful plastic spoons or gold mini spoons instantly dress them up.
Batching for a Party
Hosting a crowd? Double the recipe and mix in a big pitcher. Pipe into cups with a pastry bag for speed. Keep them on a chilled tray or over a shallow ice bath if your place runs warm. FYI, people will come back for seconds—make more than you think you need.
Choose Your Booze Adventure
You can go classic with Irish cream, or you can embrace chaos. Both work.
- Classic: Irish cream + vanilla vodka (smooth, dessert-y)
- Cocoa route: Swap in chocolate pudding + chocolate liqueur + a hint of coffee liqueur
- Bourbon twist: Vanilla pudding + splash of bourbon + caramel drizzle on top
- Coconut magic: Coconut pudding + coconut rum + toasted coconut garnish
- Zero-proof: Use milk + a dash of vanilla extract + marshmallow syrup; keep the charm, lose the buzz
Balancing Sweetness (So It’s Not Cloying)
Liquors add sugar. To keep things balanced:
- Use white chocolate pudding instead of straight vanilla.
- Add a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of cream cheese for tang.
- Top with unsweetened whipped cream instead of the tub stuff.
Texture: The Hill I’ll Die On
Great pudding shots feel spoonable, not drinkable. Too runny? Add more whipped topping or a tablespoon of instant pudding mix and whisk. Too stiff? Fold in a splash of milk or Irish cream. The base should cling to the spoon but still melt in your mouth. Think cloud, not cement.
Cereal Timing Matters
Add cereal at the bottom for crunch, but don’t go wild—too much and it gets soggy fast. Garnish with fresh marshmallows right before serving. If you want max crunch, keep a little bowl of cereal on the side and let people sprinkle their own. Interactive dessert = instant win.
Serving, Storing, and Not Screwing It Up
You can make these a day ahead, and they’ll keep for 2-3 days in the fridge. Cover each cup to prevent weird fridge flavors. Add toppings just before serving.
Transporting them? Arrange cups in a cupcake carrier or a sheet pan lined with a silicone mat so they don’t slide. Bring the cereal separately. Assemble in 2 minutes when you arrive and accept compliments like a pro.
Scaling Up Without Tears
For about 24 mini shots:
- 2 boxes instant pudding
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 to 1 1/4 cups Irish cream (plus 1/4–1/2 cup vodka if you want stronger)
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups whipped topping
Taste as you go. You run the show.
FAQ
Can I make these without alcohol?
Absolutely. Replace the booze with milk or half-and-half, plus a splash of vanilla or marshmallow syrup for flavor. The texture stays dreamy, and kids can join the fun (with extra marshmallows, obviously).
What pudding brand sets the best?
Look for instant pudding that specifically says “instant.” Jell-O or store brands usually work fine. The key is cold milk and not over-whisking—thick, not soupy.
My shots didn’t set. What went wrong?
You probably used too much liquid or warm milk. Stir in a bit more instant pudding mix and chill again. Next time, measure the booze and keep the milk cold-cold.
Can I freeze pudding shots?
You can, but I don’t recommend it. Freezing messes with the emulsion and can turn them grainy. If you must, freeze without cereal and thaw in the fridge before serving.
How do I make them less sweet?
Use unsweetened whipped cream, a pinch of salt, and keep the booze on the drier side (vodka over liqueur). You can also add a tablespoon of cream cheese for a slight tang that balances everything, IMO it’s clutch.
What size cups should I use?
Two-ounce cups hit the sweet spot. They’re big enough for layers and small enough that people grab seconds without guilt. If you go bigger, warn your guests. Or don’t. Your call.
Conclusion
Lucky Charms pudding shots mix childhood nostalgia with grown-up vibes, and they’re unapologetically extra—in the best way. They whip up fast, look adorable, and taste like a party. Make a batch, garnish with those ridiculous marshmallows, and watch them vanish. Are they classy? Not particularly. Are they a guaranteed good time? Strong yes.
