Kick off your holiday celebrations with these irresistible Christmas Chocolate Kahlua Baileys Pudding Shots—rich, creamy, and boozy all in one festive bite. You’ll love how the chocolate pudding base perfectly balances the smooth Irish cream and coffee liqueur for a crowd-pleasing Christmas treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No oven needed—just whisk, spoon, and chill.
- Ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Make-ahead friendly—prep a day in advance to save holiday stress.
- Customizable alcohol levels—add more Kahlua or Baileys to suit your taste.
- Gluten-free and vegetarian—everyone can dig in.
- Festive presentation—mini candy canes and chocolate shavings elevate the look.
- Portion-controlled delights—18–20 servings means no overindulgence.
- Crowd-pleasing dessert-drink mashup—guests love the fun twist.
Ingredients
– 2 (3.4-ounce) packages instant chocolate pudding mix
– 3 cups cold milk (whole or 2%; almond milk works, too)
– 1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut cream)
– ½ cup Baileys Irish Cream (plus extra for drizzle)
– ½ cup Kahlua coffee liqueur (sub with Tia Maria or coffee vodka)
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
– Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (for garnish)
– Mini candy canes or peppermint sticks (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cold milk, heavy cream, Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlua, and vanilla extract until well combined. (Tip: Chill your bowl in the fridge for 10 minutes for extra-fluffy results.)
- Sprinkle the instant chocolate pudding mix over the liquid mixture. Whisk vigorously for 2 full minutes until the pudding thickens—look for soft peaks forming on the whisk.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping using a rubber spatula, creating a silky, mousse-like texture. Avoid overmixing to keep it light and airy.
- Spoon or pipe the pudding mixture into 2-ounce shot glasses or mini dessert cups, filling each about three-quarters full. (Pro tip: Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with a corner snipped for uniform servings.)
- Refrigerate the pudding shots for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, until set and delightfully firm.
- Just before serving, top each pudding shot with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, and a mini candy cane hook or crushed peppermint.
- Serve chilled—and watch your guests’ faces light up as they savor each boozy, chocolatey bite!
Servings & Timing
Yield: Makes 18–20 pudding shots
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour (up to 24 hours ahead)
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes (including chilling)
Variations
• Peppermint Mocha Pudding Shots: Swap Kahlua for peppermint schnapps and garnish with crushed candy canes.
• Salted Caramel Twist: Drizzle salted caramel sauce on top for a sweet-savory edge.
• Espresso Boost: Add 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder to intensify the coffee flavor.
• Baileys Chocolate Mint: Use mint-flavored Baileys for a bright, festive kick.
• Non-Dairy Version: Replace milk and cream with coconut milk and dairy-free whipped topping.
• Kid-Friendly Mocktail: Omit Baileys and Kahlua; substitute with cold-brew coffee and vanilla syrup.
Storage & Reheating
Store pudding shots in an airtight container or cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap. They keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for party prep. Do not freeze (the dairy will separate). If the whipped topping softens, simply give each shot a quick whisk before serving or add a fresh swirl of whipped cream.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely—these pudding shots can chill up to 24 hours before serving, making them ideal for stress-free entertaining.
Q: How boozy are these shots?
A: With ½ cup each of Baileys and Kahlua divided across 20 servings, the alcohol is subtle—around 1 Tablespoon per shot (roughly 7–8% ABV). Adjust to taste.
Q: Can I use dark chocolate pudding instead?
A: Sure! Dark or milk chocolate instant pudding both work—dark chocolate adds deeper cocoa notes.
Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: Yes, when you choose a certified gluten-free instant pudding mix and whipped topping, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Q: What’s the best way to garnish?
A: Fresh whipped cream, chocolate curls, and mini candy canes make for the prettiest presentation.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Feel free—just ensure you have enough mixing space and refrigeration room. Multiply all ingredients by two for 36–40 shots.
Q: What if my pudding stays runny?
A: Whisk for a FULL two minutes; if it’s still loose, let it sit 2–3 minutes more at room temperature before chilling.
Q: Any tips for kid-friendly versions?
A: Omit the Baileys and Kahlua, replace with flavored coffee syrups, and top with sprinkles for a festive mocktail.
Conclusion
These Christmas Chocolate Kahlua Baileys Pudding Shots truly are the easiest, most festive dessert-cocktail to grace your holiday table. With chocolate, coffee, and Irish cream all in one spoonable treat, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Give them a whirl at your next gathering, then come back and let me know how everyone raved—happy holidays!
Christmas Chocolate Kahlua Baileys Pudding Shots
Ingredients
- 2 packages (3.4 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold milk whole or 2%, almond milk works too
- 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut cream
- 1/2 cup Baileys Irish Cream plus extra for drizzle
- 1/2 cup Kahlua coffee liqueur substitute Tia Maria or coffee vodka
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure
- 1 cup whipped topping Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for garnish
- Mini candy canes or peppermint sticks optional, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, Baileys, Kahlua, and vanilla until combined.
- Sprinkle pudding mix over the liquid and whisk vigorously for 2 full minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping to create a smooth, airy texture without overmixing.
- Spoon or pipe the pudding into 2-ounce shot glasses, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours) until firm and ready to garnish.
- Top each shot with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a mini candy cane just before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
