Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe

This Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, boozy indulgence that will steal the show at any party. Combining the rich flavors of red velvet cake with the smooth sweetness of creme de cacao liqueur, these pudding shots offer a fun and festive twist on your typical dessert. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just want to treat yourself and friends, this recipe brings a unique, colorful pop of flavor and excitement to your gathering. It’s simple to make, beautifully vibrant, and absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, using just a handful of easily accessible ingredients that truly make a difference in flavor and texture. Each one plays a key role in building the lusciousness and festive appearance of these pudding shots.

• Red Velvet JELL-O instant pudding mix: The foundation for that classic red velvet flavor and smooth texture you crave.
• Red velvet cake mix: Adds a lovely depth and enhances the authentic cake flavor in every bite.
• Cold milk: Essential for whipping together the pudding to the perfect creamy consistency.
• Creme de cacao liqueur: Brings a subtle chocolatey richness and boozy warmth that elevates the entire dish.
• Cool Whip (thawed): Lightens the pudding mixture, adding a fluffy, airy texture that makes each shot feel like pure indulgence.
• Whipped cream and sprinkles (for decorating): These finishing touches add playfulness and charm, making your pudding shots party-ready.
• Plastic soufflé cups with lids: Perfect for portioning and storing your pudding shots with ease and convenience.

How to Make Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Pudding and Cake Mixes

Start by adding the Red Velvet JELL-O instant pudding mix and red velvet cake mix into a large mixing bowl. This combination is what gives your pudding shots that unmistakable red velvet flavor and vibrant color. Pour in the cold milk and whisk thoroughly until everything is smooth and fully dissolved, ensuring there are no lumps standing between you and pudding perfection.

Step 2: Stir in the Creme de Cacao Liqueur

Now, pour in the creme de cacao liqueur and gently stir it into your pudding base. This step is where your Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe starts to transform into an adult-friendly treat, adding that subtle chocolate note and alcohol warmth that complements the red velvet beautifully.

Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping

Carefully fold in the thawed Cool Whip. This lightens the mixture, giving your pudding shots a fluffy texture that’s both creamy and inviting. The whipped topping also balances the richness of the liqueur and intensifies the pudding’s smoothness.

Step 4: Portion and Chill

Spoon the luscious pudding mixture into plastic soufflé cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Cover them with lids and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours. This chilling period allows the pudding to set properly and the flavors to meld together wonderfully. If you don’t plan to serve them immediately after chilling, simply keep the lids on until you’re ready to enjoy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, top each pudding shot with a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle festive Valentine-themed sprinkles for that extra touch of fun and color. This final flourish makes the presentation pop and invites everyone to dig in!

How to Serve Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe

Garnishes

Decorating your Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe with whipped cream and sprinkles adds that irresistible visual appeal and a light, creamy contrast to the boozy pudding beneath. For an extra festive twist, consider using heart-shaped sprinkles or edible red glitter. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, also complement red velvet flavor beautifully and offer a fresh bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these pudding shots with light, complementary dishes to balance the richness. Fresh fruit platters, cheese and cracker boards, or simple chocolate-dipped strawberries work wonderfully. These sides keep the focus on your boozy pudding shots while elevating the overall spread for your guests.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get creative, serve your Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe in decorative mini glasses or mason jars instead of plastic cups. You can layer them with cake crumbs or crushed cookies to add texture and surprise. Another fun idea is to freeze them briefly for a cool twist or arrange them on a festive tray garnished with fresh rose petals for a romantic vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover pudding shots can be covered tightly with their lids and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their creamy texture and flavor well when kept chilled, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy hosts.

Freezing

This Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe is best enjoyed fresh after chilling and does not freeze well because the texture can change once thawed, becoming less smooth and a bit watery. For the best experience, stick to refrigerating rather than freezing.

Reheating

Since these pudding shots are served cold, reheating is not recommended. Instead, give any refrigerated leftovers a quick stir before serving again to refresh their creaminess and ensure a perfectly smooth bite every time.

FAQs

Can I make Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe without alcohol?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the creme de cacao liqueur and replace it with extra milk or a flavored syrup. The pudding will still be delicious, just without the boozy kick.

What alternatives can I use for Cool Whip?

If you prefer, you can substitute Cool Whip with whipped cream or a dairy-free whipped topping. Just make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and cold for folding into the pudding mixture.

Can I use homemade red velvet cake instead of cake mix?

While the cake mix adds convenience and consistent flavor, you can experiment with crumbled homemade red velvet cake for added texture. Keep in mind the drying effect a cake mix balance provides, so adjust liquid accordingly.

How long should I chill the pudding shots?

For best results, chill them overnight or at least 4 hours. This allows the flavors to blend nicely and the pudding to set into a smooth, firm consistency.

Are these pudding shots suitable for large parties?

Definitely! This recipe scales easily, and using 2-ounce plastic cups makes portioning and serving effortless. They’re perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or any festive event.

Final Thoughts

If you love a sweet, boozy treat that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly fun, this Red Velvet Pudding Shots Recipe is for you. It’s an exciting way to share a bit of indulgence with friends and family while impressing them with your culinary creativity. Give it a try, and watch as these delightful pudding shots become your new favorite party staple!

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