Hey there, festive friends! 🎄 Get ready for the showstopper of your holiday party—these Christmas Chocolate Kahlua & Baileys Pudding Shots! Picture this: hot chocolate and your favorite coffee liqueurs teamed up, dressed up for the season, and transformed into a deliciously creamy, boozy treat.
I brought these to last year’s holiday gathering, and they disappeared faster than cookies left for Santa! Even my mother-in-law asked for the recipe, and that’s when you KNOW it’s a winner!
Why You’ll Love These Pudding Shots
- So easy to make (no bartending skills needed!)
- A perfect make-ahead treat for parties
- Tastes just like Christmas in shot form
- No cooking or baking required
- Guaranteed to get you invited to every holiday celebration!
Can I Make These Alcohol-Free?
Absolutely! Just swap the Kahlua with strong cold coffee and the Bailey’s with Irish cream coffee creamer. They’ll still taste amazing, and everyone can join in the fun! Just be sure to label them so there’s no confusion at the party.
How Long Do They Need to Set?
Give them at least 4 hours in the fridge, though overnight is even better. The flavors blend beautifully and get even more delicious with time—just like Santa’s reindeer need rest before their big night, good things come to those who wait!
Can I Prep These Ahead of Time?
Yes, indeed! You can keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days, just make sure they’re covered tightly. We don’t want them picking up any other food smells from the fridge. The hardest part will be resisting them until party time!
Let’s Get the Party Started!
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
- 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:
- Start with your biggest mixing bowl—let’s work some holiday magic!
- Whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and whole milk for about 2 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
- Add in the Kahlua and Bailey’s and whisk until everything is fully combined. The smell is heavenly!
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip—let’s keep it light and fluffy like fresh snow!
- Using a spoon (or piping bag if you’re feeling fancy), fill your shot cups about 3/4 full.
- Pop the lids on and refrigerate until set.
- Just before serving, top with whipped cream, candy canes, chocolate shavings, and all the festive goodies!
My Secret Tips! 🤫
- Keep your milk and liqueurs cold for a quicker set!
- Want them extra thick? Use a bit less milk.
- Make a test shot to check your alcohol-to-pudding ratio.
- Chill your mixing bowl beforehand to keep everything nice and cool.
- Label a few “extra naughty” shots with a little extra Kahlua for those who like it strong!
- Want to show off the layers? Use clear cups for an artsy touch!
Storage and Serving Suggestions:
These little jolly shots can stay in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re covered tightly and kept 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 for fun!
Pro tip: Make a few alcohol-free versions for the non-drinkers and mark them with a different sprinkle color.
Creative Variations:
- Peppermint Paradise: Add a splash of peppermint schnapps
- Chocolate Orange: Swap Kahlua for Grand Marnier
- Winter Wonderland: Use white chocolate pudding with vanilla liqueur
- Nutty & Nice: Add a splash of Frangelico
- Sugar Cookie: Vanilla pudding with Bailey’s and butterscotch schnapps
Now, go ahead and let these festive pudding shots steal the show at your holiday party!
