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If you love peppermint and all things Christmas, these Candy Cane Pudding Shots are going to be a favorite!
They’re creamy, sweet, and full of peppermint flavor, with a festive topping of crushed candy canes.
These little treats are perfect for Christmas parties, holiday get-togethers, and dessert tables. They’re easy to make ahead of time, and you can serve them in small plastic shot cups for a fun holiday presentation.
The combination of vanilla pudding, peppermint, and whipped topping gives these pudding shots a delicious creamy texture that tastes just like a Christmas candy cane!
You might also like: Christmas Sugar Cookie Pudding Shots with Sprinkles
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Candy Cane Pudding Shots Ingredients
- 1 small box (3.4 ounces) instant white chocolate pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- ½ cup vanilla vodka
- ½ cup peppermint schnapps
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed
- 2–3 candy canes, crushed
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Mini candy canes, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Candy Cane Pudding Shots
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth.
Add the vanilla vodka and peppermint schnapps. Whisk until everything is well combined and the pudding begins to thicken.
Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Spoon or pipe the pudding mixture into small plastic shot cups.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Just before serving, sprinkle the tops with crushed candy canes.
Add a little whipped cream and a mini candy cane for garnish, if desired.
This recipe makes approximately 18–24 pudding shots, depending on the size of your cups.
Tips for Making Candy Cane Pudding Shots
Crush the candy canes finely. Smaller pieces are easier to sprinkle over the pudding shots and give you a little peppermint crunch in every bite.
Make them ahead. You can prepare the pudding mixture a day ahead and keep the filled cups covered in the refrigerator. Add the crushed candy cane topping just before serving so it stays crunchy.
Adjust the peppermint flavor. If you prefer a milder peppermint flavor, start with a little less peppermint schnapps and adjust to taste.
Make an alcohol-free version. Replace the vodka and peppermint schnapps with additional cold milk and a little peppermint extract. Add the extract a few drops at a time so the flavor doesn’t become too strong.
Keep the pudding shots refrigerated until serving.
More Christmas Cocktails to Try
If you’re planning a Christmas party or putting together a festive holiday drink menu, here are a few more recipes to try!
- Sugar Cookie Martini – A creamy, sweet cocktail inspired by everyone’s favorite Christmas cookie.
- Creamy Peppermint Martini – A delicious peppermint cocktail with a festive candy cane rim.
- Candy Cane Martini – A fun Christmas cocktail with plenty of peppermint flavor.
- Mistletoe Martini – A pretty cranberry cocktail that’s perfect for holiday entertaining.
- Gingerbread Martini – A cozy dessert-inspired cocktail with classic gingerbread flavor.
These Candy Cane Pudding Shots are such a fun addition to your Christmas celebrations.
Make a batch, add plenty of crushed candy canes, and enjoy a little peppermint sweetness at your next holiday gathering!
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