No Bake S’mores Pudding Cup Recipe

If you are looking for a delightful dessert that brings all the joy of camping treats straight to your kitchen without turning on the oven, this No Bake S’mores Pudding Cup is exactly what you need. It layers the crunchy graham cracker crumbles, silky chocolate pudding, fluffy marshmallow goodness, and creamy whipped topping into a perfect treat that’s fun, easy, and irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a nostalgic snack, this no-fail dessert promises to satisfy that s’mores craving any time of year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully simple, relying on a handful of pantry staples that come together to balance flavor, texture, and that iconic s’mores look. Each ingredient plays its part: whether it’s the crunch from the graham crackers or the creamy pudding base, the flavor harmony shines through.

• Graham Crackers: Crushed for that crunchy, slightly sweet base that mimics the classic s’mores crust.
• Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix: Provides the rich, chocolatey center without needing any cooking.
• Milk: Helps whisk the pudding mix into a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Whipped Topping: Adds lightness and fluffiness, creating layers that melt in your mouth.
• Marshmallow Fluff: Brings the gooey, sweet essence of roasted marshmallows into the cup.
• Mini Marshmallows, Chocolate Sprinkles, Mini Chocolate Bars: For that final decorative and delicious touch on top.
• Plastic Cups or Dessert Cups: For layering and serving your pudding cups with style.

How to Make No Bake S’mores Pudding Cup

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Base

Start by crushing your graham crackers into fine crumbles—using a food processor or placing them in a ziplock bag and gently bashing with a rolling pin works great. Press a generous layer of these crumbs into the bottoms of four plastic cups. This crunchy base is the foundation for your s’mores experience.

Step 2: Whisk the Instant Pudding

In a mixing bowl, combine your instant chocolate pudding mix with the milk. Whisk vigorously until smooth and thickened. This step creates the luscious, velvety chocolate pudding layer that will make you forget you didn’t bake a thing.

Step 3: Layer the First Pudding and Crumbles

Spoon half of your prepared pudding evenly on top of the graham cracker crumb base in each cup. After that, sprinkle another layer of graham cracker crumbs over the pudding to add some delightfully crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pudding.

Step 4: Mix Remaining Pudding with Whipped Topping

Take the remaining half of the pudding and fold it together with the whipped topping in a separate bowl. This combination lightens the pudding, giving it a fluffy texture that elevates the overall dessert.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Marshmallow Layer

Next, combine the marshmallow fluff and additional whipped topping until smooth. Spread this sweet, fluffy mixture on top of your pudding cup layers. This is the final marshmallow touch that replicates the roasted marshmallow essence of traditional s’mores.

Step 6: Chill for Four Hours

Pop these beauties in the fridge and let them chill for at least four hours. This resting time allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld perfectly—patience is rewarded here with every bite.

How to Serve No Bake S’mores Pudding Cup

Garnishes

The fun really shines when you add your toppings. Crown each cup with a few mini marshmallows, sprinkle with chocolate sprinkles, and add a mini chocolate bar or piece for added texture and presentation. These garnishes not only look festive but amp up that s’mores vibe tremendously.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like strawberries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for different textures and a refreshing contrast. A cup of hot cocoa or coffee also makes a cozy companion to your No Bake S’mores Pudding Cup, especially during chilly evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond just plastic cups! Mason jars, mini trifle dishes, or clear glass tumblers work beautifully for layering and allow the layers to shine visually. For a party, consider assembling individual cups with decorative ribbon or labels for an extra-special touch everyone will talk about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover No Bake S’mores Pudding Cup can be covered tightly and refrigerated for up to three days. The layers maintain their texture and flavor exceptionally well, making it an easy make-ahead dessert that keeps delighting.

Freezing

Freezing this pudding cup is not recommended because the texture of the whipped topping and marshmallow layers may change upon thawing, potentially becoming watery or separating.

Reheating

This dessert is best served cold, so there’s no need for reheating. Simply take it out of the fridge and enjoy the cool, creamy layers as they are for maximum flavor and texture impact.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant mix?

Absolutely! While instant pudding is quick and convenient, homemade pudding adds a wonderful richness. Just ensure it sets firmly before layering into the cups.

What else can I use instead of graham crackers?

If you want a twist, try crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. They bring a slight variation in flavor but keep that crumbly texture that’s essential.

Is there a way to make this dessert vegan?

Yes, substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk, use a plant-based pudding mix, and vegan marshmallow fluff. The whipped topping can be replaced with coconut whipped cream for a similar effect.

Can this dessert be doubled easily?

Totally! Just double all your ingredients and prepare more cups. These are great for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping sweets to enjoy later.

What if I don’t have marshmallow fluff?

You can melt mini marshmallows on the stovetop with a little water or vegan alternative to mimic marshmallow fluff if needed. It won’t be exactly the same, but still delicious.

Final Thoughts

Making this No Bake S’mores Pudding Cup is like bringing the nostalgia of a campfire treat right into your kitchen with zero fuss and all the flavor. It’s the kind of dessert you’ll want to make again and again whenever a craving for something sweet and comforting hits. So gather your ingredients, give it a try, and watch this delightful treat become a new favorite in your dessert rotation!