Eggnog Pudding Shots are the perfect holiday treat to bring some festive fun to your gathering. With their creamy, spiced flavor and a kick of rum, these shots take everything you love about eggnog and make it even better. They’re easy to prepare, simple to serve, and always a crowd favorite.
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I love making these Eggnog Pudding Shots—they’re quick to prepare, perfect for any holiday gathering, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s Christmas Eve, New Year’s, or a festive brunch, they add that extra holiday spirit with minimal effort. Simple to make ahead and fun to share, these shots bring everyone into the festive mood!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.
How to Make Eggnog Pudding Shots with Step-By-Step Instructions
Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of creamy, boozy Eggnog Pudding Shots ready to wow your guests!
Prep the Shot Cups
Set out 19 small plastic shot cups on a cookie sheet or right on your countertop—use whatever makes it easy to move them to the fridge later.
Mix the Pudding Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pudding mix, rum, eggnog, milk, and nutmeg.
Grab a hand mixer and beat until everything is thick and smooth. You’ll start to see that rich, creamy pudding texture come together!
SERIOUSLY GOOD
DESSERTS!
Dessert First is a collection of 61 RECIPES to show you that you can make beautiful, impressive desserts right in your own kitchen, no matter your skill level.
Immediate eBook download. No physical book available.
Includes ad-free recipes like:
∙ Lemon Pound Cake
∙ Starbucks Cake Pops
∙ Boston Cream Pie
∙ Chocolate Mousse
∙ Matcha Tiramisu
...and much more!
Fold in the Whipped Cream
Now, add the whipped cream and use a rubber spatula to fold it in.
Go easy here—just mix until it’s all combined, with no streaks of white left. This will keep your pudding light and fluffy.
Fill Each Cup
Using a spoon, fill each shot cup about three-quarters of the way full. Try to keep them neat, but hey, a little mess just means it’s homemade!
Chill or Serve Right Away
If you want them cold, pop the shots in the fridge for an hour. Otherwise, they’re good to go right now! If you’re chilling, just snap a lid on each cup for easy storage.
Add a Festive Garnish
When it’s time to serve, add a little dollop of Cool Whip on each shot, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and if you’re feeling fancy, a whole star anise for a stylish touch!
Enjoy your eggnog pudding hots!
Festive Eggnog Pudding Shots Recipe
Add Preferred SourceIngredients
- 2 boxes instant vanilla pudding 3.4 ounces each
- 1 ½ cups spiced rum
- 1 cup eggnog
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg more for optional garnish
- 4 ounces Cool Whip more for optional garnish
- Whole Star Anise optional garnish
Instructions
- Set out 19 small plastic shot cups on a cookie sheet or your countertop to make transferring them to the fridge easier.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pudding mix, spiced rum, eggnog, milk, and nutmeg. Use a hand mixer to beat the ingredients until the mixture thickens and is smooth.2 boxes instant vanilla pudding, 1 ½ cups spiced rum, 1 cup eggnog, ½ cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Add the whipped cream and fold it in with a spatula, gently mixing until there are no visible streaks.4 ounces Cool Whip
- Spoon the mixture into each shot cup, filling each about three-quarters full.
- You can serve the shots right away, or if you prefer them chilled, place them in the fridge for an hour. If chilling, cover each shot cup with a lid.
- When it’s time to serve, top each with a dollop of Cool Whip, a dash of nutmeg, and, if desired, a whole star anise for decoration.Whole Star Anise
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Chill for Extra Creaminess: An hour in the fridge lets the flavors come together and makes them extra creamy.
- Switch Up the Rum: Use your favorite spiced rum or even try bourbon for a richer twist.
- Keep the Fluff: Fold the whipped cream gently to keep it airy—this gives each shot a smooth, mousse-like finish.
- Garnish Right Before Serving: Waiting until the last minute for garnishes keeps them fresh and picture-perfect.
- Perfect Consistency: A hand mixer helps get that pudding thick and smooth without any lumps.
- Adjust Spice to Taste: Love nutmeg? Add an extra dash to bring out more holiday flavor, or skip it for a milder taste.
- Easy Moving Tip: A cookie sheet under the cups is a lifesaver for quick trips in and out of the fridge!
Nutrition
SERIOUSLY GOOD
DESSERTS!
Dessert First is a collection of 61 RECIPES to show you that you can make beautiful, impressive desserts right in your own kitchen, no matter your skill level.
Immediate eBook download. No physical book available.
Includes ad-free recipes like:
∙ Lemon Pound Cake
∙ Starbucks Cake Pops
∙ Boston Cream Pie
∙ Chocolate Mousse
∙ Matcha Tiramisu
...and much more!
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
Here are some of my top tips to help you make these the best holiday pudding shots around!
- Chill for Extra Creaminess: An hour in the fridge lets the flavors come together and makes them extra creamy.
- Switch Up the Rum: Use your favorite spiced rum or even try bourbon for a richer twist.
- Keep the Fluff: Fold the whipped cream gently to keep it airy—this gives each shot a smooth, mousse-like finish.
- Garnish Right Before Serving: Waiting until the last minute for garnishes keeps them fresh and picture-perfect.
- Perfect Consistency: A hand mixer helps get that pudding thick and smooth without any lumps.
- Adjust Spice to Taste: Love nutmeg? Add an extra dash to bring out more holiday flavor, or skip it for a milder taste.
- Easy Moving Tip: A cookie sheet under the cups is a lifesaver for quick trips in and out of the fridge!
How to Store Leftover Eggnog Pudding Shots
If you have extras, cover each cup with its lid and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. These shots don’t freeze well, so stick to the fridge for storing leftovers.
What to Serve With Eggnog Pudding Shots
Pair these pudding shots with mini desserts, holiday charcuterie boards, or even a plate of Christmas cookies! They’re a festive, boozy treat that will fit right in at any gathering.
More Easy Festive Recipes for You to Try at Home
I’ve got plenty more recipes that are perfect for keeping the holiday spirit going! Check them out and keep the good times rolling.
- Rudolph Cupcakes
- Christmas Tree Cheese Trees
- Candy Cane Fudge
- Reindeer Cake Pops
- Copycat Starbucks Red Velvet Loaf
