Dessert

Peppermint Espresso Martini Pudding Shots Recipe

Bymia larkspur December 6, 2025December 6, 2025

Introduction

Enjoy a festive twist on a classic cocktail with these Peppermint Espresso Martini Pudding Shots. They combine rich chocolate, bold espresso, and refreshing peppermint in a creamy, boozy treat perfect for holiday parties or special occasions.

The image shows several small clear cups filled with layers of a rich brown chocolate mousse. Each cup is topped with a large swirl of white whipped cream, garnished with small pink sprinkles and a piece of white chocolate with colorful bits on top. The cups are placed close together on a pink cloth over a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is gently holding one of the cups. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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, milk, vodka, peppermint schnapps, and espresso powder until smooth.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, add the heavy cream and peppermint extract. Use an electric mixer to beat until soft peaks form, which will take a few minutes.
Step 3: Stir 1 1/2 cups of the peppermint whipped cream into the pudding mixture, whisking until smooth. Reserve the remaining whipped cream for topping and refrigerate it until ready to use.
Step 4: Pour the pudding mixture into 2-ounce shot glasses, filling each about three-quarters full. Refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes, until mostly set but still somewhat soft.
Step 5: Pipe the reserved whipped cream on top of each pudding shot. If desired, garnish with sprinkles and small pieces of peppermint bark. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use decaffeinated espresso powder if you want to reduce the caffeine content without losing the rich coffee flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream when making the whipped topping.
Add a dash of chocolate liqueur for a deeper chocolate flavor and extra boozy kick.
Try using mini candy canes as a festive garnish in place of peppermint bark.

Storage

Store pudding shots covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed chilled and within this time frame to maintain texture and freshness. If refrigerated longer, they may become too firm or watery. No need to reheat; serve cold straight from the fridge.

How to Serve

The image shows several small clear cups filled with a two-layer dessert: the bottom layer is smooth, dark brown chocolate mousse, and the top layer is a thick swirl of white whipped cream. Each cup is garnished with a square piece of white chocolate with small colorful bits inside and sprinkled with pink sugar crystals on the whipped cream. The cups are placed closely together on a white cloth with red patterns, on a wooden table with a white marbled texture in the background. Blurred white ceramic Christmas trees and glowing lights can be seen far behind the cups, creating a festive holiday mood. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these pudding shots ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pudding shots up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator, and add the whipped cream topping just before serving for the best texture.

What if I don’t have peppermint schnapps?

If you don’t have peppermint schnapps, you can substitute with another mint-flavored liqueur or omit it entirely for a non-alcoholic version, increasing the peppermint extract slightly to maintain flavor.