No Bake Shamrock Shake Dessert : Easy St. Patrick’s Day Treat
Article By :
kim
September 5, 2025
If you’re looking for a fun, festive, and stress-free dessert, this No Bake Shamrock Shake Dessert is exactly what you need. It’s cool, minty, creamy, and layered with Oreo cookie crust, cream cheese, pudding, and whipped topping. Best of all, you don’t have to turn on the oven. This dessert is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, but honestly, my family loves it year-round whenever we crave something sweet and refreshing.
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The Story & Why This Dessert Works
A family tradition with a sweet twist
When I was growing up near Austin, Texas, St. Patrick’s Day wasn’t a huge holiday, but as a mom of two now, I love finding little ways to make the day special. Shamrock Shakes from the drive-thru were always a hit with my kids, but making them at home turned into sticky countertops and way too much sugar. That’s how this No Bake Shamrock Shake Dessert was born. It has the same minty flavor but in a layered, sliceable treat that feels a little more special and a lot less messy.
Why no bake desserts save the day
Life is busy, and some nights I’m just trying to get dinner on the table before homework and bedtime routines kick in. No bake recipes are a lifesaver, especially when I want something fun for the kids. This dessert doesn’t require a stand mixer or oven, and you can put it together in less than 20 minutes before chilling. This recipe is proof that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated. It joins my collection of easy favorites, like my popular No Bake Mango Dessert, and is festive enough for holidays but simple enough for an everyday sweet treat.
No Bake Shamrock Shake Dessert
Ingredients
- 24 Oreo cookies crushed
- 6 tbsp salted butter melted
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 8 oz Cool Whip Original, thawed
- 3.4 oz vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1 3/4 cups cold milk
- A few drops green food coloring
- 8 oz Cool Whip Extra Creamy, thawed
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Green sprinkles
Instructions
Step 1 : Preparation
- Crush Oreos into fine crumbs. and Mix with melted butter and press into 9×13 dish.
Step 2 : Cheesecake Layer
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, and peppermint extract until smooth. and Fold in Cool Whip and spread over crust.
Step 3 : Pudding Layer
- Mix pudding mix, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring until thick. and Spread over cheesecake layer.
Step 4 : Topping
- Spread Cool Whip over pudding layer. and Decorate with chocolate chips and sprinkles.
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Notes
Layers of Flavor in the Shamrock Shake Dessert
The Oreo crust foundation
Every good layered dessert starts with a solid base. For this recipe, crushed Oreo cookies mixed with melted butter form a chocolatey crust that holds everything together. Press it firmly into your dish so it sets evenly. If you’ve made holiday dessert bars before, you’ll recognize how easy it is to build flavor from the bottom up. The slight bitterness of chocolate cookies balances the creamy, minty layers on top.
The creamy cheesecake & pudding layers
The next two layers bring the magic. First, a simple cheesecake blend of cream cheese, sugar, peppermint extract, and Cool Whip adds tang and fluff. Then comes the pudding layer, tinted with green food coloring for that signature Shamrock look. Together, they’re rich without being heavy, sweet without being overwhelming. Kids love the color, and adults appreciate the smooth, refreshing taste.
Customizing Your Dessert
Swaps for every kitchen
Not a fan of Cool Whip? Real whipped cream works beautifully here, as long as you whip it stiff so it holds its shape. Don’t have Oreos? Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or even gluten-free cookies make great substitutes. One of my favorite parts of this recipe is how adaptable it is, just like my easy no bake dessert recipes.
Peppermint-free variations
No peppermint extract? Don’t worry. You can still get that minty flavor with crushed mint candies, or try a totally different twist by using vanilla or almond extract instead. The green coloring makes it festive even if you skip the mint.
Serving & Storing Tips
Make-ahead and freezing options
This dessert is perfect for parties because you can make it ahead. It needs at least 3 hours in the fridge to set, but overnight is even better. Stored covered in the fridge, it lasts up to 3 days. If you want to make it weeks ahead, freeze it before adding the final Cool Whip topping, then thaw overnight in the fridge and decorate before serving.
How to serveNo Bake Shamrock Shake Dessert for St. Patrick’s Day
To make it extra festive, top with sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or even little gold candy coins. Cut it into squares and serve on green or white plates for a holiday party. If you love themed desserts for gatherings, this one belongs right alongside your party desserts. It looks stunning with just a sprinkle of chocolate chips and a dollop of whipped cream on top.
FAQs about No Bake Shamrock Shake Dessert
Can I use real whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, just whip it until stiff peaks form so it holds in the layers.
Is there a substitute for Oreo cookies in the crust?
Absolutely. Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or gluten-free cookies all work.
I don’t have peppermint extract. What else can I use?
You can swap in vanilla extract, almond extract, or crushed mint candies.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after sitting overnight in the fridge.
Can I freeze the No Bake Shamrock Shake Dessert?
Yes, freeze before adding the final Cool Whip topping, then thaw and decorate.
How can I make a gluten-free version?
Simply use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust, and check that your pudding mix is certified gluten-free.
How long will this dessert last in the refrigerator?
Stored in a covered container, the dessert will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The cookie crust may soften slightly over time.
Conclusion
This No Bake Shamrock Shake Dessert has quickly become a St. Patrick’s Day tradition in my house. It’s easy, festive, and so much fun to make with the kids. Whether you’re hosting a party, surprising your family with a holiday treat, or just craving something sweet and minty, this recipe will hit the spot. May it fill your kitchen with the same happiness it has brought to mine.
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