It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a festive twist on your favorite cocktails? From peppermint patty to gingerbread cookie, these 18 delicious Christmas shot recipes are sure to bring cheer to your holiday gatherings.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to add some holiday magic to your evening, these creative concoctions are the perfect way to get in the spirit. With flavors ranging from sweet and spicy to creamy and boozy, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your favorite liqueurs, spirits, and mixers, and let’s get started on making this Christmas one to remember!
Stay tuned for the recipes…
Peppermint Patty Christmas Shot
Add a festive twist to your holiday gatherings with this refreshing Peppermint Patty Christmas Shot. A perfect blend of cool mint and rich chocolate, this shot is sure to be a hit at any party.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a shot glass with ice.
2. Pour in the peppermint schnapps and Godiva white chocolate liqueur.
3. Top with heavy cream.
4. Garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready to serve)
Eggnog Cream Shot
A creamy and indulgent twist on the classic eggnog, this shot is perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggnog, sugar, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the eggnog mixture until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into chilled shot glasses or small cups.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled and garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is best served cold.
Enjoy your Eggnog Cream Shot!
Candy Cane Martini Shot
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive and refreshing Candy Cane Martini Shot! This sweet treat is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a unique gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces peppermint-flavored vodka
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Crushed candy canes or red and green sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and heavy cream.
2. Add peppermint extract and shake until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
4. Garnish with crushed candy canes or red and green sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Gingerbread Cookie Shot
Elevate your holiday party with these adorable gingerbread cookie shots, perfect for sipping hot cocoa or eggnog. These bite-sized treats combine the spices of traditional gingerbread with a shot glass twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup molasses
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add molasses; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into shapes or use a shot glass mold.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
7. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiked Hot Chocolate Shot
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this decadent Spiked Hot Chocolate Shot recipe, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 shot of your favorite liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa, Baileys, or RumChata)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Remove from heat and add in dark chocolate chips, butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the mixture to melt and combine.
3. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the Spiked Hot Chocolate into a shot glass or small mug.
5. Add your preferred liqueur and stir gently.
6. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Christmas Tree Jello Shot
Add a festive touch to your holiday gatherings with these adorable Christmas Tree Jello Shots. A refreshing combination of cranberry, green apple, and lime flavors, these bite-sized treats are perfect for sipping by the fire or at your next party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon Jell-O
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1/4 cup cranberry juice
– 1/4 cup green apple pucker liqueur
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon blue food coloring
– Green sugar or edible glitter for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dissolve Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water, cranberry juice, green apple liqueur, and lime juice. Stir until combined.
3. Pour into small cups or molds.
4. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
5. Just before serving, add a few drops of blue food coloring to create the “tree” effect.
6. Garnish with green sugar or edible glitter, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Snowball Irish Cream Shot
A rich and creamy shot perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat. This Snowball Irish Cream Shot combines the flavors of Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlúa, and heavy cream to create a decadent delight.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream
– 2 tablespoons Kahlúa
– 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
2. In a separate bowl, combine Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlúa, and powdered sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the Baileys mixture until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into shot glasses or small cups.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Cranberry Kiss Shot
This refreshing shot combines the flavors of cranberries, orange liqueur, and vodka to create a delightful treat for any occasion. With its vibrant red color and tangy taste, the Cranberry Kiss Shot is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce triple sec or Cointreau
– 1/2 ounce cranberry juice
– 1/4 ounce freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of grenadine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, orange juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
5. If desired, add a splash of grenadine for a subtle sweetness.
Cooking Time: None
White Christmas Coconut Shot
White Christmas Coconut Shot
A refreshing twist on the classic holiday cocktail, this White Christmas Coconut Shot is a delightful treat to enjoy during the winter season.
- 1 1/2 oz Coconut Rum
- 1/2 oz White Crème de Menthe
- 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
- 1/4 oz Freshly squeezed lime juice
- Splash of Sparkling Water
- Sprinkle of Shredded Coconut for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine Coconut Rum, White Crème de Menthe, Simple Syrup, and lime juice.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake until well-combined and chilled.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of Shredded Coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time:
Approximately 5 minutes to prepare and serve.
Apple Pie Moonshine Shot
This shot combines the warm spices of apple pie with a kick of moonshine, perfect for fall or winter gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you can create a unique and delicious treat that’s sure to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces moonshine
– 1/2 ounce apple cider-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1/4 ounce cinnamon syrup (see note)
– 1/4 ounce lemon juice
– 1/4 ounce simple syrup
– Dash of nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine moonshine, apple cider-infused simple syrup, cinnamon syrup, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
4. Sprinkle a dash of nutmeg on top.
Cooking Time: None
Note:
– To make apple cider-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup apple cider in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then let cool.
– To make cinnamon syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then let cool.
Caramel Pecan Pie Shot
A rich and decadent dessert shot that combines the flavors of caramel, pecans, and velvety chocolate. Perfect for a special treat or as a unique addition to your holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 ounce high-quality dark chocolate chips, melted
– Whipped cream and additional pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the caramel reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour the caramel mixture into shot glasses or small cups. Top each with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired, and garnish with additional pecans.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Latte Shot
Warm up with a shot of fall flavor! This Pumpkin Spice Latte Shot is a condensed version of the classic coffeehouse drink, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or party favor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream (optional)
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong coffee.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Add the pumpkin mixture to the brewed coffee and stir until dissolved.
4. If desired, top with heavy cream and whipped cream, then sprinkle with pumpkin pie spice.
Cooking Time: 2 minutes
Chocolate Cherry Cordial Shot
Elevate your cocktail game with this decadent shot that combines the bold flavors of chocolate and cherry cordials. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1/2 ounce Cherry Cordial Syrup (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the white chocolate liqueur, cherry cordial syrup, and heavy cream.
2. Stir until well combined and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir again to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into shot glasses or small cups.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Rudolph’s Nose Shot (Cherry Vodka)
Brighten up your holiday party with this festive and delicious shot! Rudolph’s Nose Shot is a sweet and tangy treat that’s sure to put everyone in the holiday spirit.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz Cherry Vodka
– 0.5 oz grenadine
– 0.5 oz lemon-lime soda
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a shot glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Cherry Vodka.
3. Add a splash of grenadine.
4. Top with lemon-lime soda.
5. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready to serve!)
Winter Wonderland Blue Shot
Escape into a winter wonderland with this refreshing blue shot, perfect for cold-weather gatherings. This sweet and tangy cocktail combines the warmth of vanilla and caramel with the invigorating chill of winter.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz Kahlúa
– 1/2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
– 1/4 oz blue curaçao
– 1/2 oz vanilla syrup
– Splash of heavy cream
– Ice
– Whipped cream and caramel sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Kahlúa, Baileys Irish Cream, blue curaçao, and vanilla syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
5. Top with a splash of heavy cream.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and caramel sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This shot is ready in under 30 minutes.
Nutty Professor Shot (Hazelnut Liqueur)
This recipe combines the rich flavors of hazelnuts and coffee to create a unique and delicious shot. Perfect for hazelnut lovers, this drink is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Hazelnut liqueur
– 1/2 oz Kahlúa coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the hazelnut liqueur, Kahlúa, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
Cooking Time:
– None, as this is a cold drink.
Spiced Rum Eggnog Shot
Warm up with this creamy, spicy shot that combines the richness of eggnog with the depth of spiced rum. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Spiced Rum
– 1/2 cup Eggnog
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the spiced rum, eggnog, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: 1 serving (shot)
Enjoy your Spiced Rum Eggnog Shot in moderation, as it packs a potent punch!
Frosty the Snowman Shot (Vanilla & Coconut)
Bringing a taste of winter wonderland to your cocktail hour, this festive shot combines the creaminess of coconut with the warmth of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces coconut rum
– 1/2 ounce vanilla-flavored vodka
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon shredded coconut (optional)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the coconut rum, vanilla-flavored vodka, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
5. Garnish with shredded coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This shot is ready in just minutes.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 festive Christmas shots! From Peppermint Patty to Spiked Hot Chocolate, these delicious recipes are sure to bring cheer to your holiday party. Enjoy flavors like candy cane, gingerbread, and eggnog, or try something new like Caramel Pecan Pie or Pumpkin Spice Latte. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a festive cocktail, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
