The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a festive drink that’s sure to bring cheer to your gatherings? This year, we’re shaking (and stirring) things up with 20 deliciously spiked Christmas shot recipes that are sure to be the star of your holiday party. From classic flavors like peppermint and eggnog to sweet treats like candy canes and gingerbread cookies, these tasty shots are perfect for sipping on their own or using as a base for a signature cocktail.
In this article, we’ll take you through the making of each shot, from simple mixology to more complex recipes that require a few extra ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate with friends and family, these Christmas shot recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your season.
Peppermint Patty Christmas Shot
Get into the holiday spirit with this refreshing and festive shot!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed candy canes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the peppermint schnapps and white chocolate liqueur.
3. Shake well to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
5. Top with heavy cream.
6. If desired, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch.
Cooking Time: None! This shot is ready in just 2 minutes
Eggnog Cream Holiday Shot
A festive twist on traditional eggnog, this shot combines creamy texture with sweet and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup eggnog
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggnog and heavy cream until smooth.
2. Add bourbon whiskey, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the mixture. Whisk until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into shot glasses or small cups.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: None required!
Candy Cane Martini Shot
Get ready to add a pop of festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with this easy-to-make Candy Cane Martini Shot. Made with peppermint schnapps, Godiva white chocolate liqueur, and a splash of grenadine, this martini is as sweet as it is potent.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce grenadine
– 1/2 ounce vodka (optional)
– Crushed candy canes or edible gold glitter for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add peppermint schnapps, Godiva white chocolate liqueur, and grenadine.
3. Shake until well combined, about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a martini glass.
5. If desired, add a splash of vodka for an extra kick.
6. Garnish with crushed candy canes or edible gold glitter.
Cooking Time: None needed! This drink is ready in minutes.
Spiked Hot Chocolate Shot
Warm up with a rich and creamy spiked hot chocolate shot that combines the classic comfort of hot cocoa with a kick of liqueur.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 oz whole milk
• 1/2 oz Kahlúa or other coffee liqueur
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and whole milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. Add in the dark chocolate chips and whisk until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the Kahlúa, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour into shot glasses or small cups.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (mostly just heating the milk)
Tips: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of Kahlúa to your desired level of spiciness. Enjoy as a warm pick-me-up or serve at parties for a unique treat.
Gingerbread Cookie Shot
These bite-sized cookie shots are a delightful twist on traditional gingerbread cookies. Perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet treat any time of the year, they’re sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– Whipped cream and candy cane pieces for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and molasses.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide dough evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before filling with whipped cream and garnishing with candy cane pieces (if using).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cranberry Kiss Christmas Shot
Start your holiday season with a sweet and tangy treat that combines the flavors of cranberries, vodka, and a hint of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup vodka (or to taste)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a blender or food processor, puree the cranberries and sugar until smooth.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds and any remaining pulp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the vodka, heavy cream, and melted butter.
5. Add the peppermint extract and whisk until combined.
6. Pour the cranberry puree into shot glasses, filling them about 3/4 of the way full.
7. Top each shot with the vodka mixture.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
9. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required (just chill and serve!)
White Christmas Snowball Shot
Get ready to ring in the holiday cheer with this festive shot that’s as cool as a winter wonderland. The White Christmas Snowball Shot is a creamy, sweet, and tangy treat that’s perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces white crème de cacao
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white crème de cacao, Godiva white chocolate liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
5. Drizzle a small amount of vanilla extract on top (optional).
6. Garnish with whipped cream and crushed candy canes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This shot is ready in an instant.
Apple Pie Holiday Cheer Shot
Kick off your holiday celebrations with this sweet and tangy shot that combines the flavors of apple pie with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce apple cider liqueur (such as Calvados)
– 1/2 ounce caramel syrup
– 1/4 ounce heavy cream
– Pinch of ground cinnamon
– Dash of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, apple cider liqueur, and caramel syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.
6. Add a dash of vanilla extract on top (optional).
Cooking Time: None! This shot is ready in just a few minutes.
Caramel Pecan Pie Shot
A rich and indulgent dessert shooter that combines the flavors of caramel, pecans, and gooey chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot glass
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 ounce dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, butter, and brown sugar until smooth.
2. Add caramel sauce and sea salt; whisk until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into a shot glass filled with ice.
4. Top with chopped pecans and dark chocolate chips.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (ready to serve)
Pumpkin Spice Christmas Shot
Add a festive twist to your holiday gatherings with this warm and spicy pumpkin spice shot. Perfect for cold winter nights, this recipe combines the flavors of pumpkin pie with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vodka
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together vodka, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
2. Add the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into shot glasses or mini mason jars.
4. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix and serve.
Chocolate Orange Truffle Shot
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of velvety chocolate, tangy orange, and creamy truffles. Perfect for a special occasion or as a indulgent gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1/4 cup chopped orange zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and warmed through.
2. Remove from heat and stir in confectioners’ sugar until dissolved.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Stir orange liqueur into melted chocolate.
5. Fold chopped orange zest into the chocolate mixture.
6. Pour the mixture into small truffle molds or mini muffin tin cups.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until firm.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is chilled and not baked.
Cherry Cheesecake Holiday Shot
This festive holiday shot combines the sweetness of cherry liqueur with the tanginess of cheesecake, making it a perfect treat for your next gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be sipping on these delightful shots in no time!
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz Cherry Liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
• 1/2 oz Cheesecake-flavored Vodka (or regular vodka with a splash of cheesecake syrup)
• 1/2 oz Heavy Cream
• 1/4 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• Splash of Grenadine Syrup (optional, for color)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the cherry liqueur, cheesecake-flavored vodka, heavy cream, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain into shot glasses.
5. If desired, add a splash of grenadine syrup for a festive red color.
Cooking Time: None! This is a shot recipe, so it’s ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Cherry Cheesecake Holiday Shots!
Toasted Marshmallow Snowflake Shot
Get ready to swoon with this sweet and indulgent shot!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz white rum
– 1/2 oz Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1 marshmallow (mini or regular)
– Sprinkles or edible glitter for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Place a marshmallow on a toothpick or skewer and toast it with the heated cream for about 30 seconds, until it’s puffed up and golden brown.
3. Remove the marshmallow from the cream and set aside.
4. In a cocktail shaker, combine the white rum, Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur, and toasted marshmallow.
5. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
6. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass and garnish with sprinkles or edible glitter.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Cinnamon Roll Christmas Shot
Get ready to spice up your holiday gathering with this sweet and festive Cinnamon Roll Christmas Shot! This boozy treat combines the warmth of cinnamon with the cheer of peppermint, all wrapped up in a shot glass.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vodka
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Crushed candy canes or red and green sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine vodka, heavy cream, and softened butter. Heat over low heat, whisking occasionally, until the butter has melted and the mixture is warm.
2. Remove from heat and stir in ground cinnamon and peppermint extract.
3. Pour the mixture into shot glasses or small cups.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Garnish with crushed candy canes or red and green sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Peppermint Mocha Espresso Shot
Get a boost of energy with this refreshing and flavorful espresso shot, perfect for any time of day. Made with rich espresso, peppermint flavor, and chocolatey notes, this treat is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 ounces heavy cream (optional)
– Whipped cream and crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of strong espresso according to your preferred method.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peppermint extract, cocoa powder, and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the mixture to the espresso shot and stir until dissolved.
4. If desired, top with heavy cream and garnish with whipped cream, crushed candy canes, or chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spiced Rum Eggnog Shot
Get ready to warm up with this festive shot that combines the richness of eggnog with the spicy kick of rum.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces spiced rum
– 1/2 ounce eggnog
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the spiced rum, eggnog, cinnamon, and nutmeg 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! This is a shot, after all!
White Chocolate Raspberry Shot
Elevate your cocktail game with this sweet and tart White Chocolate Raspberry Shot. A perfect combination of creamy white chocolate, fresh raspberries, and vodka, all packed into a tiny package.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce raspberry puree
– 1/2 ounce vodka
– 1/4 ounce heavy cream
– Fresh raspberries for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white chocolate liqueur, raspberry puree, and vodka.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
5. Top with a dollop of heavy cream.
6. Garnish with a fresh raspberry.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your Raspberry Bliss Shot!
Coconut Snowball Holiday Shot
Add a tropical twist to your holiday gatherings with this creamy Coconut Snowball Holiday Shot. Made with coconut rum, pineapple juice, and a hint of vanilla, this refreshing cocktail is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces coconut rum
– 1/2 ounce pineapple juice
– 1/2 ounce vanilla-flavored syrup (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– Ice
– Pineapple wedges and cherry halves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine coconut rum, pineapple juice, and vanilla syrup (or extract).
2. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a shot glass or small cup.
4. Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the shot, creating a “snowball” effect.
5. Garnish with pineapple wedges and cherry halves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
Nutty Irishman Christmas Shot
A festive twist on the classic Irish Coffee, this Nutty Irishman Christmas Shot is a perfect way to spice up your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Irish Whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– 1/2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
– 1/2 oz Kahlúa
– 1/4 oz hazelnut liqueur (such as Frangelico)
– Whipped cream and chopped hazelnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a shot glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Irish Whiskey, Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlúa, and hazelnut liqueur.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in an instant!)
Caramel Apple Cider Shot
Escape the ordinary with this sweet and tangy shot that combines the flavors of caramel, apple cider, and bourbon. Perfect for chilly fall evenings or cozy gatherings with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup caramel syrup (or dulce de leche)
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the apple cider over low heat.
2. Add the caramel syrup and whisk until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour into shot glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spike up your holiday gatherings with these delicious and festive Christmas shot recipes! From classic peppermint patties to spicy eggnog, and from sweet caramel pecan pie to tangy cranberry kisses, there’s something for everyone on this list. Impress your friends and family with clever concoctions like candy cane martinis, gingerbread cookie shots, and toasted marshmallow snowflakes. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing winter treat or a fun holiday activity, these 20 shot recipes are sure to bring cheer and joy to your Christmas celebrations.
