Looking for a fun and tasty way to enjoy your favorite dessert with a boozy twist? Banana pudding shots are the perfect crowd-pleaser for parties, game days, or any casual get-together.
Combining the creamy sweetness of classic banana pudding with the kick of your favorite liquor, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and impossible to resist.
This recipe takes the nostalgia of a traditional Southern banana pudding and transforms it into a delightful adult-friendly shot. With layers of banana flavor, vanilla wafers, and a smooth pudding base, each shot delivers a burst of creamy goodness with just the right amount of booze.
Whether you’re an experienced mixologist or a beginner looking for a simple, fun recipe, these banana pudding shots will quickly become your go-to.
Ready to impress your guests with a unique and delicious dessert cocktail? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow banana pudding shots recipe that promises to be the highlight of your next gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Banana pudding shots are a delightful blend of dessert and drink, perfect for those who love indulgence with a boozy edge. This recipe is:
- Simple and quick to prepare – no complicated bartending skills required.
- Customizable – easily swap out liquors or add toppings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for parties – they’re portable, easy to serve, and always a hit with guests.
- Rich and creamy – captures the nostalgic flavor of classic banana pudding in a fun new format.
- Visually appealing – layered beautifully in shot glasses, making for a stunning presentation.
Plus, this recipe uses pantry staples and requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal last-minute dessert or party treat. If you enjoy other creative recipes, don’t miss our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for a savory snack to pair with your shots.
Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla vodka
- 1 cup banana liqueur
- 1 cup prepared vanilla pudding (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Mini vanilla wafers, for garnish
- Banana slices, optional garnish
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Shot glasses or small dessert cups (about 1.5 to 2 oz size)
- Spoon or small spatula
- Plastic wrap or airtight container for chilling
Instructions
- Prepare the pudding mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared vanilla pudding, mashed bananas, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. Use an electric mixer or whisk to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add the liquors: Slowly whisk in the vanilla vodka and banana liqueur until fully incorporated. This creates the boozy base of your pudding shots.
- Layer the shots: Place a small spoonful of crushed vanilla wafer cookies at the bottom of each shot glass. This adds a crunchy texture.
- Fill the glasses: Spoon the pudding mixture over the cookie layer, filling each shot glass about 3/4 full. Gently tap the glasses on the counter to settle the mixture.
- Chill the shots: Cover the shot glasses with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the pudding is set and chilled.
- Garnish and serve: Just before serving, top each shot with a dollop of whipped cream, a mini vanilla wafer, and a thin banana slice if desired.
- Enjoy responsibly: Serve your banana pudding shots chilled and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy dessert and cocktail fun!
Tips & Variations
“For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk-based pudding and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also try swapping the vanilla vodka for coconut rum for a tropical twist!”
- Make it layered: For a more visually striking shot, layer pudding, crushed cookies, and pudding again before chilling.
- Use fresh bananas: Mash ripe bananas for natural sweetness and authentic flavor.
- Try different liquors: Instead of banana liqueur, experiment with caramel or butterscotch schnapps to add depth.
- Add texture: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for a satisfying crunch.
- Non-alcoholic version: Omit the vodka and liqueur, replace with extra vanilla extract and banana flavoring.
- Make ahead: These shots keep well in the fridge for up to 48 hours, perfect for prepping before your event.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Shot (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 18 g |
Sugars | 12 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Protein | 1 g |
Alcohol | 12-15 g (varies by liquors used) |
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and quantities.
Serving Suggestions
Banana pudding shots are best served chilled straight from the fridge. Here are some creative ways to elevate your presentation:
- Serve on a decorative tray with fresh banana slices and extra vanilla wafers on the side for guests to snack on.
- Pair with light finger foods like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious for a combo of savory and sweet flavors.
- Add a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cinnamon for a fragrant touch.
- For outdoor parties, keep shots cool in a bowl of ice to maintain their creamy texture.
Conclusion
Banana pudding shots are a fantastic way to bring a beloved dessert into the world of cocktails. Their creamy texture, natural sweetness, and boozy punch make them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a festive celebration, these shots are sure to impress and delight your guests.
Thanks to their easy preparation and flexible ingredients, you can tailor this recipe to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Plus, their attractive presentation makes them an eye-catching addition to your party table.
Don’t forget to serve responsibly and enjoy the fun fusion of dessert and drinks in every bite!
Craving more delicious recipes like this? Explore other tasty options such as Can I Substitute Almonds for Cashews in Vegan Cheese?
or try our Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide for comforting meals beyond dessert.
📖 Recipe Card: Banana Pudding Shots
Description: A fun and creamy adult treat combining banana pudding and vodka for a delicious party shot. Easy to make and perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 12 shots
Ingredients
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant banana pudding mix
- 1 cup cold milk
- 1/2 cup vanilla vodka
- 1/2 cup banana liqueur
- 1 cup whipped topping, thawed
- Banana slices, for garnish
- Vanilla wafer cookies, crushed, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
- Stir in vanilla vodka and banana liqueur.
- Fold in whipped topping until smooth.
- Spoon mixture into shot glasses or small cups.
- Chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Garnish with banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Carbs: 20g
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