Eggnog Pudding Shots Festive

Eggnog Pudding Shots have quickly become a go-to treat for our family’s holiday parties. This dreamy dessert captures everything festive in a tiny, creamy bite and never fails to get folks crowding the dessert table. It is ideal for anyone who loves the cozy flavor of eggnog but wants something a little whimsical and new.

I tried these one Christmas Eve when a friend dropped off homemade eggnog and I have been serving them ever since. They disappear from the fridge faster than I can make them!

Ingredients

• Instant vanilla pudding: makes these perfectly creamy and is foolproof for quick preparation. Choose top shelf brands for the smoothest texture
• Spiced rum: adds depth and warmth. Look for a rum with cinnamon or clove notes for an extra cozy flavor
• Eggnog: rich and festive. Go for the freshest refrigerated variety if you can find it
• Whole milk: balances the sweetness and helps everything set up properly
• Ground nutmeg: essential for classic eggnog aroma. Freshly grated will be most fragrant
• Cool Whip: gives the shots a light fluffy mouthfeel and makes them easy to serve. Regular whipped topping works too
• Whole star anise: is a garnish with a beautiful look and gentle spice. Optional but lovely

Step-by-Step Instructions

Set Up the Cups:

Line up nineteen plastic shot cups on a cookie sheet so they are easy to fill and move to the fridge. This keeps things tidy and organized for speedy assembly

Mix the Pudding Base:

Using a large bowl add both mixing the pudding packets with rum eggnog milk and one teaspoon ground nutmeg. Beat thoroughly with a hand mixer until you see the mixture thicken and look glossy

Fold in the Cool Whip:

Add in the Cool Whip. Use a spatula to gently fold it through so the texture remains airy and smooth without streaks

Fill the Cups:

Spoon or pour the pudding mixture into each cup filling about three quarters of the way. Cover tightly with lids for best chilling

Chill Thoroughly:

Place tray in the fridge for at least one hour. Chilling lets the pudding set up and makes each shot extra creamy when served cold

Garnish and Serve:

Before serving crown each shot with an extra dollop of Cool Whip and finish with a sprinkle more nutmeg. For a special touch add a whole star anise to the top if you want a festive look

Save

Of all the ingredients eggnog might be my favorite. I always know Christmas is close when I spot it in stores and this pudding shot is just another excuse to start using it early in December. Once my cousin tried to sneak an extra shot and got caught by my grandma so now it is a bit of an inside joke at family get togethers.

Storage Tips

Store leftover pudding shots in the refrigerator with lids on to keep them fresh. They will stay just right for up to three days though the whipped topping is best added fresh before serving. Do not freeze as the texture will change

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find spiced rum vanilla or bourbon both work well here for slightly different but tasty twists. Dairy free whipped topping and plant based milk can be swapped in too. If you want nonalcoholic pudding shots simply use more eggnog and milk in place of the rum

Serving Suggestions

These are fun to serve on a big holiday dessert platter with cookies and fudge. They also make a memorable after dinner dessert for adults or a festive addition to Christmas movie night. For easy serving offer petite spoons or let everyone grab and sip

Save

Cultural Context

Eggnog is a classic American holiday drink that dates back to colonial times when it was a sign of festive plenty. Turning it into a pudding shot keeps the tradition alive with a bit of modern holiday flair

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade eggnog instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade eggnog can be substituted for store-bought. Make sure it has a creamy consistency for best results.

→ What can I use instead of spiced rum?

Bourbon, brandy, or even a splash of vanilla extract are good alternatives if you want a non-alcoholic option.

→ Do the shots have to be chilled before serving?

Chilling helps thicken the mixture and enhances flavor. Allow at least one hour in the refrigerator before serving.

→ Is it possible to prepare these treats ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can make them a day ahead and store in the refrigerator, covered until ready to serve.

→ How can I garnish for extra flair?

A dollop of whipped topping, a dash of nutmeg, and a whole star anise make for attractive and flavorful garnishes.

→ Can I make this without alcohol?

Yes, simply substitute the spiced rum with milk or extra eggnog for an alcohol-free version everyone can enjoy.