Christmas Chocolate Kahlua Baileys Pudding Shots: Easy Holiday Dessert Shots

Introduction

The holiday season calls for indulgence, laughter, and a touch of sparkle, and what better way to celebrate than with Christmas Chocolate Kahlua Baileys Pudding Shots? These delightful little dessert shooters combine the rich, velvety texture of chocolate pudding with the sophisticated warmth of Baileys Irish Cream and Kahlua coffee liqueur. They’re playful enough to feel festive but grown-up enough to wow your guests. Whether served at a holiday party, tucked into a dessert table, or enjoyed by the fire, these pudding shots are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

My recipe story

This recipe was born out of my love for holiday entertaining and a family tradition of experimenting with new treats each Christmas. I wanted something that was as indulgent as a chocolate truffle but as fun as a festive cocktail. One year, I tried mixing chocolate pudding with Baileys, and it was instantly a hit. With the addition of Kahlua, the depth of flavor elevated it even more. Over the years, I’ve perfected the balance of creaminess and boozy richness, turning these pudding shots into a requested staple at every holiday gathering I host.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of these pudding shots is in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating that signature rich and creamy flavor. The instant chocolate pudding mix provides a silky base that sets beautifully, while whole milk adds richness and ensures the proper texture. Skimping here and using skim milk can lead to a thin and watery result, so whole milk is essential.

The Baileys Irish Cream brings a luxurious, velvety sweetness with subtle notes of vanilla and cocoa, while the Kahlua deepens the profile with a warm coffee essence. Together, they create a flavor that’s perfectly balanced—sweet but not cloying, rich yet smooth. Whipped topping is folded in at the end to lighten the mixture, giving the shots an airy mousse-like quality that makes them irresistible.

Equipment you’ll need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or electric hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Shot glasses, mini cups, or dessert shooters
• Spatula for folding in whipped topping
• Piping bag or spoon for neat filling

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mix with the whole milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken. This is the base of your shots, and proper whisking ensures there are no lumps while achieving a smooth texture.

Step 2: Add in the Baileys Irish Cream and Kahlua, whisking gently until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture will loosen slightly but should still be creamy and thick. This step ensures the pudding carries the flavor of both liqueurs evenly.

Step 3: Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the airy texture. This step transforms the pudding into a light, mousse-like consistency that makes the shots feel decadent yet easy to enjoy.

Step 4: Spoon or pipe the mixture into shot glasses, mini dessert cups, or plastic shooter cups. Fill each about three-quarters full to leave room for garnish. This also makes them easier for guests to pick up and enjoy without spilling.

Step 5: Refrigerate the pudding shots for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the pudding to set properly, ensuring a perfectly creamy bite every time.

Step 6: Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, festive sprinkles, or crushed candy canes. These little touches not only add flavor but also make your shots party-ready.

Variations & substitutions

There are plenty of ways to customize these pudding shots for your holiday spread. Swap the Baileys for peppermint schnapps to create a minty version, or try hazelnut liqueur for a nutty twist. For a stronger coffee punch, double up on the Kahlua. If you prefer a lighter option, use sugar-free pudding mix and light whipped topping. You can also layer different flavors of pudding—such as chocolate and vanilla—for a two-tone effect that looks stunning in clear cups.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

These pudding shots are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them covered with plastic wrap or lids to prevent them from drying out. While freezing isn’t recommended due to texture changes, you can make the mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it before piping into cups. Garnishes should be added just before serving for the freshest look and taste.

Serving ideas & pairings

Serve these pudding shots as part of a dessert table alongside holiday cookies, truffles, and festive cakes. They also pair beautifully with coffee or espresso for a rich after-dinner treat. For a complete cocktail-inspired dessert experience, serve alongside Irish coffee or espresso martinis. At parties, arrange them on a tiered platter with candy cane garnishes for a festive presentation that draws everyone in.

FAQ

Can I make these alcohol-free?
Yes! Simply replace Baileys and Kahlua with flavored syrups like chocolate, coffee, or peppermint.

Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant?
Instant pudding is recommended for proper setting. Homemade pudding often stays too soft for shots.

How long do they need to chill before serving?
At least 1 to 2 hours is ideal, but overnight chilling works well for stronger flavor melding.

What size cups work best?
2-ounce plastic shooter cups or mini dessert glasses are perfect for portion control and presentation.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! The recipe scales up easily without affecting texture or flavor.

Final thoughts

Christmas Chocolate Kahlua Baileys Pudding Shots are the ultimate holiday treat, combining the joy of dessert with the festivity of cocktails. They’re easy to prepare, elegant in presentation, and guaranteed to be the hit of your holiday party. With just a few simple ingredients and a little chilling time, you’ll have a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Bring these to your next Christmas gathering, and watch them disappear faster than you can say “cheers!

Christmas Chocolate Kahlua Baileys Pudding Shots: Easy Holiday Dessert Shots

---

• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
• Yield: 12 shots 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Creamy chocolate pudding infused with Baileys and Kahlua makes these festive dessert shots irresistible. Perfect for holiday parties and entertaining.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (3.9 oz / 102 g) package instant chocolate pudding mix

• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) Baileys Irish Cream

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) Kahlua coffee liqueur

• 1 cup (240 ml) whipped topping, thawed

• Whipped cream, for garnish

• Chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or crushed candy canes, for garnish

---

Instructions

• In a mixing bowl, whisk the chocolate pudding mix with whole milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.

• Stir in Baileys and Kahlua until fully combined and smooth.

• Gently fold in the whipped topping with a spatula, keeping the mixture light and fluffy.

• Spoon or pipe the pudding mixture into shot glasses or small cups, filling about three-quarters full.

• Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until set.

• Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or festive toppings before serving.

Notes

Best enjoyed within 3 days when stored in the refrigerator. Add garnishes just before serving for the freshest look and flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American