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Some cravings aren’t about hunger—they’re about vibes. Late-night laughs, holiday gatherings, cozy evenings with friends, or those moments when you want dessert and a little something extra. That’s exactly where these Keto Kahlua & Baileys Pudding Shots shine.
I created this recipe during a phase when I wanted something fun and indulgent, but still fully keto-compliant. Traditional pudding shots are loaded with sugar, instant mixes, and carb-heavy thickeners. They taste great, but they don’t love you back the next day. I wanted the same creamy, boozy, dessert-like experience—without breaking ketosis or feeling heavy afterward.
These pudding shots deliver everything you expect: rich coffee notes, creamy Irish-cream vibes, silky texture, and just enough indulgence to feel like a treat. The best part? They’re no-bake, incredibly easy to prepare, and perfect for parties, celebrations, or even a quiet night in when you want something special.
If you love keto desserts that feel grown-up, indulgent, and a little playful, this recipe is going to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These keto pudding shots aren’t just low carb—they’re next-level satisfying.
- 🍮 Ultra creamy texture – Smooth, silky, and spoonable.
- ☕ Coffee + cream flavor – Classic Kahlua & Baileys-style taste.
- 🍸 Perfect party dessert – Fun, portion-controlled, and elegant.
- ❄️ No-bake recipe – No oven, no stove, no stress.
- ⏱️ Quick to prepare – Minimal prep, mostly chill time.
- 💚 Keto & sugar-free – No sugar spikes, no carb overload.
- 🔁 Easy to customize – Boozy or alcohol-free options.
- 🎉 Crowd-pleaser – Keto and non-keto guests love them.
My Personal Experience
The first time I tested these pudding shots, I wasn’t even planning a party. It was one of those evenings where dessert sounded good, but I also wanted something fun—something that felt like a treat, not just another keto cheesecake square.
I remember lining up the little glasses in the fridge, sneaking a spoonful before they fully set, and instantly knowing this recipe was a keeper. The flavor was spot on: creamy, lightly sweet, with that unmistakable coffee-cream finish that feels indulgent but not overpowering.
Since then, I’ve made these pudding shots for:
- Holiday gatherings
- Birthday dinners
- Keto-friendly celebrations
- Small get-togethers where dessert needed to feel “special”
They’re always the first thing to disappear—and usually followed by someone asking, “Wait… these are keto?”
Required Equipment
Mixing Bowl
A medium mixing bowl is all you need for the pudding base.
- Glass or metal works best.
- Enough room to whisk without splashing.
Whisk or Hand Mixer
You can whisk by hand or use a hand mixer.
- A hand mixer makes the texture extra smooth.
- Whisking works fine if ingredients are soft and well combined.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Accuracy matters here, especially with alcohol and sweetener.
- Proper ratios ensure the pudding sets correctly.
Small Glasses or Shot Cups
Use small dessert cups, shot glasses, or mini jars.
- Clear cups look great for presentation.
- Silicone molds also work well.
Spatula
Helpful for scraping every bit of creamy goodness into the cups.
- Keeps portions neat and even.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Full Ingredient List (8–10 pudding shots)
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered keto sweetener
- ¼ cup sugar-free coffee liqueur (Kahlua-style)
- ¼ cup sugar-free Irish cream liqueur (Baileys-style)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for mocha flavor)
- Pinch of salt
Why Each Ingredient Matters
- Heavy Cream – The base of the pudding; adds richness and fat.
- Cream Cheese – Gives body, thickness, and cheesecake-like creaminess.
- Powdered Keto Sweetener – Sweetens without grit; dissolves smoothly.
- Kahlua-Style Liqueur – Provides coffee depth and subtle bitterness.
- Baileys-Style Liqueur – Adds creamy, vanilla-caramel warmth.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and rounds flavors.
- Cocoa Powder – Optional, but adds chocolate-coffee depth.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Substitutions & Adjustments
- Alcohol-Free Version
- Replace liqueurs with strong brewed coffee + sugar-free Irish cream syrup.
- Add ½ teaspoon instant espresso powder for depth.
- Dairy-Free Option
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Use dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
- Sweeter Version
- Add 1–2 extra tablespoons powdered sweetener to taste.
- Stronger Coffee Flavor
- Add ½ teaspoon espresso powder or coffee extract.
How to Make Keto Kahlua & Baileys Pudding Shots
Step 1: Soften the Cream Cheese
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened.
- This prevents lumps.
- Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes if needed.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Base
In a mixing bowl, add the cream cheese and powdered keto sweetener.
Whisk or beat until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
Tip: Take your time here—smooth base = silky pudding.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Flavoring
Pour in the heavy cream, Kahlua-style liqueur, Baileys-style liqueur, vanilla extract, cocoa powder (if using), and salt.
Whisk until fully combined and smooth.
Step 4: Adjust Texture
The mixture should be thick but pourable.
- If too thin, chill briefly and whisk again.
- If too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons cream.
Step 5: Portion the Pudding
Spoon or pour the mixture evenly into shot glasses or dessert cups.
Tap gently to release air bubbles.
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or until firm and spoonable.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve chilled, optionally topped with keto whipped cream or cocoa dusting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese – causes lumps.
- Using granulated sweetener – leads to gritty texture.
- Too much alcohol – prevents proper setting.
- Skipping chill time – pudding won’t firm up.
- Overmixing with a blender – can thin the mixture.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Always use powdered sweetener.
- Chill overnight for best texture.
- Use clear cups for presentation.
- Keep portions small—these are rich.
- Add toppings just before serving.
Keto Benefits of Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is a keto staple because it’s:
- Very low in carbs
- High in satisfying fats
- Naturally thick and creamy
- Perfect for desserts without flour or starch
It helps create indulgent textures without breaking ketosis.
Variations You Can Try
Mocha Pudding Shots
Add cocoa powder and espresso powder for chocolate-coffee flavor.
Vanilla Cream Shots
Skip cocoa and add extra vanilla for a lighter profile.
Chocolate Irish Cream Shots
Add sugar-free chocolate syrup for dessert-like richness.
Alcohol-Free Dessert Cups
Use coffee and cream flavorings for a family-friendly version.
Tips for This Recipe
- Best served cold.
- Make ahead for stress-free entertaining.
- Adjust alcohol strength to preference.
- Keep chilled until serving time.
Optional Additions
- Keto whipped cream
- Cocoa powder dusting
- Sugar-free chocolate shavings
- Espresso bean garnish (decorative)
- Cinnamon or nutmeg sprinkle
Serving Ideas
Serve these pudding shots:
- After a keto dinner party
- At holiday gatherings
- As a dessert bar option
- For birthdays or celebrations
- Alongside coffee or espresso
Storage Recommendations
Refrigerator
Store covered for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze for 30–40 minutes for a semi-frozen, mousse-like texture.
Reheating
Not recommended—these are best served cold.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are these keto pudding shots really low carb?
Yes. They’re made with keto-friendly ingredients and sugar-free liqueurs.
2. Will alcohol kick me out of ketosis?
In moderation, these fit into a keto lifestyle. Portion control matters.
3. Can I make them stronger?
Yes, but too much alcohol can prevent proper setting.
4. Can I make them dairy-free?
Yes, with coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.
5. Do they taste alcoholic?
They taste creamy with coffee notes—not harsh.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Perfect for parties.
7. Can kids eat these?
Only the alcohol-free version is suitable for children.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Shot)
Approximate values (1 of 10):
- Calories: ~150
- Protein: ~2 g
- Fat: ~14 g
- Total Carbs: ~2 g
- Fiber: ~0 g
- Net Carbs: ~2 g
Recipe Snapshot
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Chill Time: 2–3 hours
- Total Time: ~3 hours
- Course: Dessert / Party Treat
- Cuisine: Keto / Low Carb
- Servings: 8–10 shots
- Calories: ~150 per serving
Keto Kahlua & Baileys Pudding Shots Recipe
Ingredients
- Heavy cream – 1 cup 240 ml
- Cream cheese full-fat, softened – 4 oz (113 g)
- Powdered keto sweetener – ¼ cup adjust to taste
- Sugar-free Kahlua-style liqueur – ¼ cup 60 ml
- Sugar-free Baileys-style liqueur – ¼ cup 60 ml
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- Unsweetened cocoa powder optional – 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Place the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl and add the powdered keto sweetener. Beat well using a hand mixer or whisk until the mixture is completely smooth, creamy, and free of any lumps. Take your time here, as a smooth base is the key to silky pudding shots.
- Pour in the heavy cream, sugar-free Kahlua-style liqueur, sugar-free Baileys-style liqueur, vanilla extract, cocoa powder (if using), and a small pinch of salt. Mix again until everything is fully combined and the mixture looks glossy and uniform. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure nothing is left unmixed.
- Check the consistency of the mixture. It should be thick but still pourable, similar to a loose pudding. If it feels too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of heavy cream and mix again. If it seems too thin, chill the mixture for 10–15 minutes, then whisk briefly to help it thicken.
- Spoon or pour the pudding mixture evenly into small cups, shot glasses, or mini dessert jars. Fill each one carefully for neat presentation, and gently tap the cups on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Place the filled cups in the refrigerator and chill for 2–3 hours, or until the pudding shots are fully set and hold their shape when gently tilted. For the best texture, you can also chill them overnight.
- Serve the pudding shots cold straight from the refrigerator. Add optional toppings like keto whipped cream or a light dusting of cocoa powder just before serving, and enjoy every creamy, indulgent bite.
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