Spooky Forest Pudding Cups

Spooky Forest Pudding Cups are a delightful no-bake Halloween treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with whimsical presentation, making them a hit for any gathering.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 8

Chilling Time 30

Total Time 1 8

Servings: 6 cups

Course: Dessert

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pudding

1 cup Sugar Substitute with brown sugar for richer flavor.
1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Essential for chocolate flavor; ensures sweetness balance.
1/4 cup Cornstarch Can be swapped with arrowroot powder for gluten-free.
1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt Regular salt works as a substitute.
2 cups Whole Milk Almond milk makes for a great dairy-free alternative.
3 large Egg Yolks Can be omitted for a vegan option.
4 ounces Semisweet Chocolate, chopped Consider using dark chocolate for more intense taste.
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Substitute coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract

For the Assembly

12 whole Chocolate Sandwich Cookies Opt for gluten-free cookies if desired.
1 cup Chocolate Candy Melts Colored melts can add fun flair.
4 pieces Bamboo Skewers (4- or 6-inch) Pretzel sticks can be used as an alternative.
1/4 cup Chocolate Sprinkles (optional) Switch to colored sprinkles for festive looks.
16 pieces Candy Pumpkins (for decorating) Any small candy can work.

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Microwave-Safe Bowl
Serving cups

Method

Preparation

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in milk and yolks over medium heat, stirring until thickened and bubbling, about 5-8 minutes.
Add chopped chocolate, butter, and vanilla to the thickened pudding mixture. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
Crumble cookies into fine bits and layer them at the bottom of serving cups. Spoon pudding on top, filling each cup to three-quarters and smooth the surface.
Melt chocolate candy melts in short bursts in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip skewers into the melted candy to create tree branches.
Once pudding is set, insert the decorated skewers into each cup, resembling tree trunks, and top with sprinkles and candy pumpkins.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Expert Tips: Whisk continuously to avoid lumps, use fine cookie crumbs for better layering, chill before decorating, melt candy at low intervals, and experiment with various toppings.

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