Oh my sweetness, festive friends! squeals with holiday joy 🎄 I’m about to share the recipe that literally STOLE THE SHOW at last year’s Christmas party! These grown-up pudding shots are like if hot chocolate and your favorite coffee liqueurs had a baby and dressed it up for Christmas!
Let me tell you, when I brought these to our neighborhood holiday gathering, they disappeared faster than cookies left for Santa! Even my mother-in-law asked for the recipe – that’s when you KNOW it’s good!
Why These Pudding Shots Will Make You the Holiday Party MVP
- They’re ridiculously easy to make (no bartending degree required!)
- Perfect make-ahead party treat
- Tastes like Christmas in shot form
- No cooking or baking needed
- Guaranteed to get you invited to every holiday party!
Can I make these alcohol-free?
You sure can, holiday helper! Replace the Kahlua with strong cold coffee and the Bailey’s with Irish cream coffee creamer. They’ll still taste amazing and everyone can enjoy them! Just label them clearly so there’s no confusion at your party.
How long do these need to set?
Give these festive babies at least 4 hours in the fridge, but overnight is even better! Think of it like letting Santa’s reindeer rest before the big flight – good things come to those who wait! Plus, the flavors mingle and get even more delicious.
Can I prep these way ahead of time?
Yes, you magical party planner! These will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just keep them covered tightly – we don’t want them absorbing any turkey smell from the fridge! The hardest part will be resisting them until party time! 😉
Time to Party!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours minimum
Total Time: About 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 24 festive shots
Ingredients:
For the Pudding Base:
- 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup Kahlua coffee liqueur
- 1 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream
- 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
For the Festive Garnishes:
- Whipped cream for topping
- Crushed candy canes
- Chocolate shavings
- Red and green sprinkles
- Mini chocolate chips
- Gold or silver edible glitter (because SPARKLE!)
You’ll Also Need:
- 2 oz plastic shot cups with lids
- Festive plastic spoons
- Piping bag (optional but fancy!)
Instructions:
- Grab your biggest mixing bowl – we’re about to make magic happen!
- Pour in your chocolate pudding mix and whole milk. Whisk like you’re trying to get on Santa’s nice list! (About 2 minutes until slightly thickened)
- Add in your Kahlua and Bailey’s. Keep whisking until well combined. (The smell is heavenly, right?!)
- Fold in the Cool Whip. Be gentle here – we want it fluffy like fresh snow!
- Using a spoon (or piping bag if you’re feeling fancy), fill your shot cups about 3/4 full.
- Pop on the lids and refrigerate until set.
- Just before serving, add your toppings and prepare for the “oohs” and “aahs”!
My Secret Tips! 🤫
- Keep your milk and liqueurs cold – helps the pudding set faster!
- Want them extra thick? Use a little less milk.
- Make a test shot first to check your alcohol-to-pudding ratio.
- Chill your mixing bowl beforehand – keeps everything nice and cold.
- Label some “extra naughty” with additional Kahlua for those who like it stronger!
- Use clear cups to show off layers if you’re feeling artistic!
Storage and Serving Suggestions:
These jolly little shots will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just keep them covered and away from strong-smelling foods.
Serve them:
- On a tiered display with fairy lights
- Arranged in a Christmas tree shape
- With candy cane stirrers
- Alongside hot cocoa (for the designated drivers!)
- With festive name tags
Pro tip: Keep a few “virgin” versions on hand for designated drivers and non-drinkers. Mark them clearly with different colored sprinkles!
Creative Variations:
- Peppermint Paradise: Add a splash of peppermint schnapps
- Chocolate Orange: Use Grand Marnier instead of Kahlua
- Winter Wonderland: White chocolate pudding with vanilla liqueur
- Nutty & Nice: Add a splash of Frangelico
- Sugar Cookie: Vanilla pudding with Bailey’s and butterscotch schnapps
I’m dying to see your festive creations! Tag me @LifewithJeviko on Instagram or drop a comment below. Did you add your own holiday twist? Tell me all about it!
