Peppermint Espresso Martini Pudding Shots Recipe
Introduction
These Peppermint Espresso Martini Pudding Shots are a festive and fun treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, espresso, and peppermint with a boozy kick. Perfect for holiday parties or special occasions, they’re easy to make and sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients
- 1 (3.9 oz) box Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix
- 3/4 cup cold whole milk
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1/4 cup peppermint schnapps
- 2-3 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, very cold
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Optional: sprinkles and peppermint bark for topping
- 2 oz plastic shot glasses
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pudding mix, cold milk, vodka, peppermint schnapps, and instant espresso powder until smooth and well combined.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, add the very cold heavy cream and peppermint extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the cream until soft peaks form. This will take a few minutes.
- Step 3: Gently fold 1 1/2 cups of the peppermint whipped cream into the pudding mixture, whisking until smooth. Refrigerate the remaining whipped cream until ready to use for topping.
- Step 4: Spoon or pour the pudding mixture into 2-ounce shot glasses, filling each about three-quarters full. Place them in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes, until the pudding shots are mostly set but still soft.
- Step 5: Pipe or spoon the reserved whipped cream on top of each pudding shot. If desired, garnish with sprinkles and a small piece of peppermint bark. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a stronger coffee flavor, use 3 tablespoons of espresso powder instead of 2.
- Try using flavored vodka, such as vanilla or chocolate, to add a unique twist.
- Make these ahead of time and keep refrigerated, but add whipped cream toppings just before serving.
- Use crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings as an alternative garnish.
Storage
Store the pudding shots covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving for the freshest texture. If the shots become too firm, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these pudding shots without alcohol?
Yes, you can omit the vodka and peppermint schnapps for a non-alcoholic version. Consider adding a little extra milk or peppermint extract to maintain the flavor and consistency.
How do I keep whipped cream from deflating?
Make sure the heavy cream is very cold before whipping, and avoid over-beating. Use the whipped cream immediately or keep it refrigerated until topping to maintain its texture.
PrintPeppermint Espresso Martini Pudding Shots Recipe
A festive and indulgent Peppermint Espresso Martini Pudding Shots recipe combining rich chocolate pudding, espresso, vodka, and peppermint schnapps, topped with peppermint whipped cream and optional festive garnishes. Perfect for holiday parties and dessert shooters that blend creamy texture with a boozy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 pudding shots (2 oz each) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pudding Mixture
- 1 3.9 oz box Instant Chocolate Pudding Mix
- 3/4 cup cold whole milk
- 1/2 cup vodka
- 1/4 cup peppermint schnapps
- 2–3 tablespoons instant espresso powder
Whipped Cream
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, very cold
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Optional Toppings
- Sprinkles
- Peppermint bark
Serving
- 2 oz plastic shot glasses
Instructions
- Mix Pudding Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix, cold whole milk, vodka, peppermint schnapps, and espresso powder until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, add the very cold heavy whipping cream and peppermint extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream until soft peaks form, indicating it is fluffy but not stiff.
- Combine Cream and Pudding: Fold 1 1/2 cups of the peppermint whipped cream into the pudding mixture, whisking gently until smooth. Reserve the remaining whipped cream, then refrigerate it until ready to garnish.
- Fill Shot Glasses: Pour the pudding mixture into 2-ounce plastic shot glasses, filling each about three-quarters full. Place the filled glasses in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes to allow the pudding to set to a soft but not liquid consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Once set, pipe the reserved whipped cream atop each pudding shot. Optionally, decorate with festive sprinkles and a piece of peppermint bark. Serve chilled and enjoy responsibly.
Notes
- Instant espresso powder can be adjusted to taste; start with 2 tablespoons and add more for stronger coffee flavor.
- Use very cold heavy cream for best whipping results.
- Refrigerating the final pudding shots is important for proper texture setting but do not over-chill or they may become too firm.
- These shots are best consumed the same day they are prepared for optimal freshness and texture.
- Alcohol content is moderate; vodka and peppermint schnapps contribute to the boozy flavor.
Keywords: peppermint espresso martini pudding shots, chocolate pudding shots, boozy pudding, holiday dessert shots, peppermint schnapps dessert

