18 Festive Christmas Shot Drinks Recipes for Holiday Cheer

recipesforlife

April 3, 2025

Get ready to ring in the holiday season with these 18 festive Christmas shot drinks recipes! Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to add some cheer to your holiday gatherings, these delicious and easy-to-make shots are sure to bring joy to all who try them. From classic peppermint and eggnog flavors to creative concoctions like candy cane martini and spiced apple pie, there’s something for everyone on this list.

In the following pages, we’ll take you on a merry journey through the world of Christmas shots, featuring recipes that incorporate everything from traditional holiday spices to decadent chocolate and creamy eggnog. So grab your favorite cocktail glasses and get ready to shake (or stir) things up with these fun and festive holiday drinks!

Peppermint Patty Christmas Shot

Peppermint Patty Christmas Shot
Get ready to jingle your bells with this refreshing holiday treat! This Peppermint Patty Christmas Shot is a perfect blend of peppermint, chocolate, and cream that’s sure to be a hit at any festive gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 shot glass
– 1 oz peppermint schnapps
– 1/2 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– Crushed candy canes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill the shot glass with ice.
2. Pour in the peppermint schnapps and white chocolate liqueur.
3. Top with a splash of heavy cream.
4. Garnish with crushed candy canes.

Cooking Time: None! This shot is ready to serve in an instant.

Eggnog Cream Shot

Eggnog Cream Shot
A creamy and indulgent shot perfect for the holiday season, this Eggnog Cream Shot combines the richness of eggnog with a hint of vanilla and a touch of spice.

Ingredients:

– 2 ounces heavy cream
– 1 ounce eggnog
– 1/2 ounce vanilla syrup (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of nutmeg
– Ice

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the heavy cream, eggnog, vanilla syrup (or extract), cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None

Candy Cane Martini Shot

Candy Cane Martini Shot
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive Candy Cane Martini Shot! Made with peppermint-flavored vodka, Godiva white chocolate liqueur, and crushed candy canes, this sweet treat is perfect for a special occasion or as a fun twist on your favorite happy hour drink.

Ingredients:

– 1.5 oz peppermint-flavored vodka
– 0.5 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 0.25 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed candy canes (about 10-12 canes)
– Ice

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the peppermint-flavored vodka, Godiva white chocolate liqueur, and heavy cream.
3. Crush the candy canes in a small bowl or mortar and pestle.
4. Add the crushed candy canes to the shaker and shake until well combined.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish with an additional crushed candy cane, if desired.

Cooking Time: None! Enjoy immediately.

Spiked Hot Chocolate Shot

Spiked Hot Chocolate Shot
Elevate your hot chocolate game with this spiked twist! Rich and creamy, this shot is perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a pick-me-up any time of year.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy alternative)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 tablespoon Kahlúa liqueur (or other coffee-flavored liqueur)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the espresso or coffee.
5. Add the Kahlúa liqueur and stir until fully incorporated.
6. Pour into shot glasses and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.

Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes

Gingerbread Cookie Shot

Gingerbread Cookie Shot
This recipe combines the warm spices of gingerbread with a playful twist – turning classic cookies into shot-sized treats perfect for parties or holiday gatherings. These bite-sized wonders are easy to make and fun to serve.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (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 and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies in prepared muffin tin and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Christmas Tree Jello Shot

Christmas Tree Jello Shot
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive Christmas Tree Jello Shot! This fun and easy recipe is perfect for your next holiday party or gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened green tea jello mix
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1/4 cup grenadine syrup
– 1/4 cup vodka (or your preferred spirit)
– Whipped cream and edible glitter for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the green tea jello mix in boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until combined.
3. Pour the mixture into shot glasses or small cups.
4. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
5. Just before serving, add the grenadine syrup and vodka to each shot glass.
6. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of edible glitter for a festive touch.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is chilled in the refrigerator.

Cranberry Kiss Shot

Cranberry Kiss Shot
A sweet and tangy shot perfect for the holiday season. This Cranberry Kiss Shot combines the flavors of cranberries, vodka, and cream to create a refreshing and fruity treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cranberry juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 1/2 ounces vanilla-flavored vodka
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh or frozen cranberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry juice, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream until well combined.
3. Add vanilla-flavored vodka and stir gently to combine.
4. Pour into shot glasses or small cups.
5. Garnish with a few fresh or frozen cranberries.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6 shots

Snowball Irish Cream Shot

Snowball Irish Cream Shot
A creamy and indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or just a fun night in with friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Baileys Irish Cream liqueur
– 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the Baileys Irish Cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Fold the Baileys mixture into the whipped cream until no white streaks remain.
4. Spoon the mixture into shot glasses or small cups.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cooking Time: None! This is a chilled dessert, so you won’t need any cooking time.

Serves: 6-8 shots

Rudolph’s Cherry Nose Shot

Rudolph’s Cherry Nose Shot
A festive holiday treat that will put a sparkle in your eye, just like Rudolph’s shining nose! This sweet and fruity shot is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces cherry liqueur
– 1/2 ounce grenadine syrup
– 1/2 ounce vodka
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– Cherry, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the cherry liqueur, grenadine, and vodka to the shaker.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and garnish with a cherry.

Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy shot that’s ready in under 30 seconds.

Spiced Apple Pie Shot

Spiced Apple Pie Shot
Get cozy with this autumnal twist on a classic cocktail! The Spiced Apple Pie Shot combines the warm, spicy flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweetness of apple cider and a hint of vanilla.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce apple cider syrup (or apple cider)
– 1/4 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/16 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, apple cider syrup (or apple cider), heavy cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a shot glass.
5. Add a dash of vanilla extract on top (optional).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe.

White Christmas Coconut Shot

White Christmas Coconut Shot
Escape to a tropical winter wonderland with this creamy and refreshing coconut shot. Perfect as a holiday party favor or special treat, White Christmas Coconut is sure to bring joy and cheer.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, coconut milk, and white chocolate chips until smooth.
2. Stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into shot glasses or small cups.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional unsweetened shredded coconut if desired.

Cooking Time: None (ready in 10-15 minutes prep time)

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Shot

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Shot

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Shot Recipe

A refreshing twist on the classic peppermint bark, this shot combines rich chocolate with invigorating peppermint for a delightful treat.

  • 1 1/2 ounces Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
  • 1/2 ounce crème de menthe
  • 1/2 ounce heavy cream
  • Pinch of crushed candy canes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine white chocolate liqueur, crème de menthe, and heavy cream.

2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.

3. Strain the mixture into a chilled shot glass.

4. Garnish with a pinch of crushed candy canes, if desired.

Cooking Time:

No cooking required! Simply shake and serve.

Caramel Pecan Pie Shot

Caramel Pecan Pie Shot
Treat yourself to a rich and indulgent dessert experience with this Caramel Pecan Pie Shot recipe, perfect for special occasions or just because!

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces caramel-flavored liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Whipped cream and additional pecans for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine caramel-flavored liqueur, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Fill with ice.
2. Shake until chilled and strain into a shot glass.
3. Drizzle melted butter over the top of the shot.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the butter.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and additional pecans, if desired.

Cooking Time:

– 5 minutes to prepare
– No cooking time required!

Enjoy your Caramel Pecan Pie Shot!

Frosty the Snowman Shot

Frosty the Snowman Shot
Get ready to build a winter wonderland in a glass with this frosty concoction!

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce coconut cream
– 1/2 ounce pineapple juice
– Splash of grenadine syrup (optional)
– Edible gold glitter or shaved ice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the white chocolate liqueur, coconut cream, and pineapple juice.
3. Shake until chilled and well-combined.
4. Strain into a shot glass.
5. If desired, add a splash of grenadine syrup for a subtle flavor boost.
6. Garnish with edible gold glitter or shaved ice to give it that snowy touch!

Cooking Time: None! This shot is ready in under 2 minutes.

Enjoy your frosty treat and let the winter magic begin!

Cinnamon Roll Shot

Cinnamon Roll Shot
This sweet treat combines the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the fun of a shot-sized dessert. Perfect for a party or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– Whipped cream and additional cinnamon for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar until dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture into shot glasses or mini cups.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Top with whipped cream and additional cinnamon, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Orange Clove Spice Shot

Orange Clove Spice Shot
This refreshing shot combines the invigorating flavors of orange and clove, perfect for a pick-me-up on a chilly day. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be sipping on this delightful concoction in no time.

Ingredients:

– 2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 ounce clove syrup (see note)
– Splash of grenadine (optional)
– Ice

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, orange juice, and clove syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled shot glass.
5. If desired, add a splash of grenadine for an extra layer of flavor.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: None! This shot is ready in just a few minutes.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Shot

Pumpkin Spice Latte Shot
Get ready to cozy up with this autumnal take on the classic espresso shot, infused with warm pumpkin spice flavors. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a base for fall-themed cocktails.

Ingredients:

– 1 shot of espresso
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (optional)
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brew a shot of espresso according to your machine’s instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Add the pumpkin mixture to the espresso and stir gently.
4. Top with heavy cream and simple syrup (if using).
5. Garnish with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice (if desired).

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Nutty Irishman Christmas Shot

Nutty Irishman Christmas Shot
Kick off your holiday party with a festive and flavorful shot that combines the warm spices of Ireland with the nutty richness of hazelnuts.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz Irish whiskey (such as Jameson or Tullamore DEW)
– 1/2 oz Frangelico liqueur
– 1/2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
– 1/4 oz hazelnut syrup
– Dash of ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Irish whiskey, Frangelico, and Baileys.
3. Shake well for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a shot glass.
5. Drizzle a small amount of hazelnut syrup onto the surface of the shot.
6. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top.

Cooking Time: None, this is a cold cocktail!

Enjoy your Nutty Irishman Christmas Shot and toast to the holiday season!

Summary

Get into the holiday spirit with these festive Christmas shot drinks! From classic eggnog and peppermint to creative concoctions like candy cane martinis and gingerbread cookie shots, there’s something for everyone on this merry list. Impress your friends and family with unique flavors like spiced apple pie, caramel pecan pie, and pumpkin spice latte. Or go old-school with retro favorites like snowball Irish cream and Rudolph’s cherry nose. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to ring in the season with a toast, these 18 festive shot recipes are sure to bring cheer!

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