Save
These Peppermint Espresso Martini Pudding Shots are the festive party treat you did not know you needed featuring creamy chocolate pudding with a lively coffee punch and bright peppermint flavor. When gatherings call for something whimsical adults can happily indulge in these fun mousselike shot cups with a boozy twist. They bring together the classic flavors of the season and a martini bar favorite in one crowdpleasing dessert.
I first made a batch for a winter friends’ gift exchange and now my phone buzzes every December with requests for them at every event I attend they have officially become a holiday tradition in my circle
Ingredients
- Instant chocolate pudding mix: this forms the luscious base and instant is key for texture opt for a good brand for deep chocolate flavor
- Cold whole milk: this ensures the pudding sets up rich and creamy persist in using cold milk for best dissolving
- Vodka: adds the classic martini warmth choose a smooth neutral vodka so flavors shine
- Peppermint schnapps: gives a cool bite that says holidays look for clear schnapps for a clean color
- Instant espresso powder: gives robust coffee depth start with two tablespoons and taste test you want balance not bitterness
- Heavy whipping cream: for light folds and that cloudlike topping be sure it is very cold to whip easily buy fresh for best volume
- Peppermint extract: enhances the minty notes drop by drop and taste since some extracts are stronger than others
- Optional sprinkles and peppermint bark for topping: make them picture perfect festive and playful
- Two ounce plastic shot glasses: easy for serving and portioning plus they feel fun
Instructions
- Make the Pudding Base:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together instant chocolate pudding mix cold milk vodka peppermint schnapps and instant espresso powder until completely smooth and creamy no dry streaks remain
- Whip the Cream:
- Add heavy whipping cream and peppermint extract to a separate chilled bowl Beat with an electric mixer on medium until soft peaks form this may take three to five minutes Watch carefully so you do not over whip to butter
- Combine for Lush Texture:
- Carefully fold one and a half cups of the peppermint whipped cream into the pudding mixture Use a whisk or rubber spatula to blend until the mixture is silky and fully combined Reserve the rest of the whipped cream for topping and keep it refrigerated
- Fill the Shot Glasses:
- Spoon or pipe the pudding mixture into two ounce shot glasses filling each about three quarters full Gently tap to even out the tops
- Chill to Set:
- Place the filled glasses in the refrigerator for thirty to sixty minutes This allows the pudding to firm up so they can be eaten with tiny spoons but they will stay luxuriously soft
- Top with Whipped Cream:
- Pipe or dollop the reserved peppermint whipped cream on top of each shot Immediately before serving you can add any festive sprinkles or a chunk of peppermint bark for color and crunch
I absolutely love the peppermint schnapps in this recipe The first year I brought these to a party I watched everyone’s eyes go wide with that refreshing chocolatemint combo and the party host commented they tasted just like her favorite peppermint bark
Storage Tips
Store pudding shots in lidded plastic shot containers if you plan to keep them for more than a few hours This helps prevent them drying out and makes transport simple Keep the whipped cream separate until the day of your event then top and garnish right before serving Place finished shots in the coldest part of your fridge for up to five days Do not freeze since the texture of the pudding and cream will suffer on thawing
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need a dairy free option substitute coconut cream for the whipped cream and use an oat or almond based milk for the pudding base Just be sure to choose pudding mix and schnapps that are both dairy free To lower the alcohol you may swap half the vodka and schnapps for extra milk and a splash of peppermint syrup
Serving Suggestions
Show them off on a pretty holiday tray with shiny foil wrappers and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies on top Pair with hot coffee or espresso to really play up the coffee dessert connection These make a whimsical dessert shooter to end a winter meal alongside a cheese plate or cookie platter
Cultural or Historical Context
The espresso martini was invented in the 1980s by a London bartender creating a sophisticated drink with both energy and elegance By blending these flavors with American style pudding shots the recipe bridges cocktail hour and holiday dessert traditions for a modern party treat Peppermint bark has also become a seasonal staple in recent decades and inspires these little desserts garnish
Seasonal Adaptations
Try substituting orange extract for the peppermint come spring for a chocolate orange twist Around Valentine’s Day top with heart sprinkles and sip beside chocolate strawberries In the fall a dash of cinnamon or ginger in the whipped cream gives a cozy new flavor
These make ahead easily for parties so you can relax and enjoy your guests Flexible with toppings use crushed cookies or cocoa nibs for crunch Easy to adjust booziness by changing up vodka and schnapps ratios
Common Recipe Questions
- → How strong is the coffee flavor?
The instant espresso powder gives a noticeable coffee kick without overpowering the mint and chocolate. Adjust the amount for a milder or bolder taste.
- → Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shots a day or two in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Add whipped cream and garnishes before serving.
- → Are these shots gluten free?
They are naturally gluten-free if you use a certified gluten-free chocolate pudding mix and spirits. Always check labels for cross-contamination.
- → How can I reduce the alcohol content?
Decrease the vodka and schnapps, and replace with extra milk for a lighter version that still keeps the creamy texture and flavor blend.
- → What’s the best way to garnish?
Top with peppermint whipped cream, festive sprinkles, and a small piece of peppermint bark for an eye-catching presentation.
- → Do these contain caffeine?
Yes, the espresso powder introduces caffeine. Each shot contains approximately 25-35mg, depending on the espresso used.