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Creamy Dr. Seuss Blue Swirl Pudding Cups

Dr. Seuss Blue Swirl Pudding Cups - featured image

A whimsical, creamy homemade vanilla pudding with a vibrant blue swirl, inspired by Dr. Seuss. This easy, kid-friendly dessert is perfect for parties, classroom treats, or a fun family snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 large egg yolks (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream (for blue swirl, whipped)
  • Blue gel food coloring
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • Mini marshmallows (for topping)
  • Sprinkles (blue, white, or rainbow, for topping)
  • Clear cups or jars (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
  2. Slowly pour in whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to dissolve the cornstarch. Heat over medium, stirring frequently.
  3. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. When the milk mixture starts to steam (but not boil), scoop out about 1/2 cup and slowly whisk it into the yolks to temper.
  4. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan, whisking constantly. Continue cooking over medium heat until the pudding thickens (about 8-10 minutes), until it coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract (and almond extract if using). Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
  6. Transfer pudding to a mixing bowl and cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, until just cool.
  7. In a clean bowl, whip 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream to soft peaks. Fold gently into half the cooled pudding.
  8. In a small bowl, mix blue gel food coloring into the other half of the pudding until bright blue.
  9. Spoon alternating dollops of vanilla and blue pudding into clear cups. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl for a marbled effect.
  10. Refrigerate cups for 1 hour to set. Top with mini marshmallows and sprinkles before serving.

Notes

For best results, use gel food coloring for vibrant swirls. The recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for dairy-free or egg-free diets. Don’t over-swirl for a prettier marble effect. Prep toppings and cups while pudding cools for efficient assembly. Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dr. Seuss dessert, blue swirl pudding, kids party dessert, whimsical pudding cups, homemade vanilla pudding, easy pudding recipe, gluten-free dessert