Creamy, rich, and delightfully boozy, these Christmas Chocolate Kahlua & Bailey’s Pudding Shots are the ultimate festive treat for adult holiday gatherings. Blending the flavors of chocolate, coffee liqueur, and Red Velvet Bailey’s, these easy-to-make shots bring a decadent twist to the dessert table. Topped with colorful Christmas sprinkles, they’re as fun to look at as they are to eat—and guaranteed to bring cheer to any celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pudding shots are the perfect fusion of dessert and cocktail, making them a holiday party favorite. They come together in minutes with no baking required and can be made ahead of time for effortless entertaining. The combination of creamy pudding, fluffy Cool Whip, and two beloved liqueurs—Kahlua and Bailey’s—creates a luxurious texture and flavor that’s hard to resist. Ideal for serving in small cups, they’re festive, flavorful, and perfect for adult guests.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup Red Velvet Bailey’s (or regular Bailey’s)
1/4 cup Kahlua (coffee liqueur)
1 small box JELL-O Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix
3/4 cup milk
8 oz container Cool Whip, thawed
Christmas sprinkles, for garnish

directions

Mix Liquids and Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Red Velvet Bailey’s, Kahlua, milk, and instant chocolate pudding mix until smooth and well blended.
Add Cool Whip: Gently fold in the Cool Whip, a little at a time, until fully combined and the mixture becomes light and creamy.
Fill the Cups: Spoon the pudding mixture into individual shot cups using a tablespoon or small piping bag.
Decorate: Top each pudding shot with festive Christmas sprinkles.
Chill: Place in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 30 minutes, or until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 12 shots
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Flavor Twist: Use other Bailey’s flavors such as Salted Caramel or Chocolate Cherry for different holiday flavor profiles.
Non-Dairy Version: Substitute almond milk and a dairy-free whipped topping.
Stronger Shots: Adjust the milk ratio and add more liqueur for a bolder kick.
Different Pudding Flavors: Try white chocolate or vanilla instant pudding for a lighter base.
Festive Layers: Create layered shots by alternating with peppermint or vanilla pudding for a colorful presentation.

storage/reheating

These pudding shots should be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a firmer texture, they can be frozen and thawed slightly before serving. Avoid reheating, as this is a chilled dessert best served cold.

FAQs

Can I make these pudding shots ahead of time?

Yes, these are perfect for making in advance. Store them in the fridge or freezer and garnish just before serving.

What’s the best way to serve pudding shots?

Small plastic or glass shot cups work best. You can also use mini dessert jars or ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Can I make this recipe without alcohol?

Yes, substitute the Bailey’s and Kahlua with additional milk and a splash of coffee or chocolate extract for a non-alcoholic version.

Do I need to use Red Velvet Bailey’s?

No, regular Bailey’s or any flavored cream liqueur you prefer will work well.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, just ensure it’s whipped to a stable consistency before folding it into the pudding mixture.

Will the pudding set properly with alcohol?

Yes, using instant pudding mix ensures it sets even with the added alcohol, as long as the proportions are balanced.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe scales well for larger gatherings. Just ensure you have enough serving cups.

Can I use a different pudding brand?

Yes, any instant chocolate pudding mix will work similarly. Avoid cook-and-serve types.

How long can they stay out at a party?

They should be served chilled but can sit out for up to 1 hour at room temperature. Return to the fridge if not consumed quickly.

Can I add toppings besides sprinkles?

Certainly. Mini chocolate chips, crushed peppermint, or a small dollop of whipped cream make excellent festive toppings.

Conclusion

Christmas Chocolate Kahlua & Bailey’s Pudding Shots are a festive and indulgent treat that blends dessert and cocktail into one delicious bite. Rich, creamy, and easy to prepare, they’re an instant hit at any holiday party.

Christmas Chocolate Kahlua & Bailey’s Pudding Shots

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Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Christmas Chocolate Kahlua & Bailey’s Pudding Shots are the ultimate holiday party treat—rich, creamy, and spiked with Red Velvet Bailey’s and Kahlua. Perfect for adding a boozy bite of cheer to your Christmas festivities

Ingredients

1/2 cup Red Velvet Bailey’s (or regular Bailey’s)
1/4 cup Kahlua (coffee liqueur)
1 small box JELL-O Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix
3/4 cup milk
8 oz container Cool Whip, thawed
Christmas sprinkles, for garnish

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Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the Bailey’s, Kahlua, milk, and pudding mix until smooth and thickened slightly.
Gently fold in Cool Whip, a little at a time, until the mixture is light and creamy.
Spoon the mixture into small shot cups using a tablespoon.
Top each shot with Christmas sprinkles for a festive touch.
Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or freeze for a firmer texture before serving.

Notes

For a firmer texture, freeze the shots and serve with mini spoons.
Add a chocolate curl or crushed candy cane for extra holiday flair.
Can be made a day in advance—just keep chilled until ready to serve.