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Cozy Peppermint Chocolate Jello Shots – Easy Holiday Dessert

peppermint chocolate jello shots - featured image

These rich, minty jello shots combine dark chocolate and peppermint schnapps for a festive, silky treat that’s perfect for holiday parties. Quick to prepare and surprisingly elegant, they’re a fun twist on a classic dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (20 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
  • 2 packets (about 14 g or 5 tsp) unflavored gelatin powder
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) cold water
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) peppermint schnapps
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vanilla vodka (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons (15 g) powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (about 4–5 regular candy canes)
  • Mini chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, sprinkle the 2 packets of unflavored gelatin over the 1/4 cup (60 ml) of cold water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes a solid blob.
  2. Make the chocolate base: In a small saucepan, whisk together the 1 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly, until hot and steaming but not boiling (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat.
  3. Add the cream and gelatin: Whisk in the 1/4 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Then add the bloomed gelatin and whisk vigorously until completely dissolved. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.
  4. Add the booze: Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes, then whisk in the 1/2 cup of peppermint schnapps and the 2 tablespoons of vanilla vodka. Taste and adjust if needed.
  5. Fill the shot glasses: Place shot glasses on a small baking sheet or tray. Carefully pour or ladle the chocolate mixture into each glass, filling them about 3/4 full.
  6. Set in the fridge: Transfer the tray to the refrigerator and let set for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  7. Make the whipped cream: Just before serving, pour the 1/2 cup of heavy cream into a chilled bowl. Add the 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whip on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes).
  8. Crush the candy canes: Place candy canes in a Ziploc bag and seal. Use a rolling pin or heavy pan to crush into small pieces.
  9. Assemble and serve: Once the shots are fully set, spoon or pipe a dollop of whipped cream onto each one. Sprinkle generously with crushed candy canes and optional chocolate shavings. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t boil the milk mixture; keep it at a gentle simmer. Ensure gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid chewy bits. Patience is key—let set at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. For a non-alcoholic version, replace schnapps and vodka with 1/2 cup strong peppermint tea and 2 tablespoons vanilla extract. Store shots (without whipped cream) covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: peppermint chocolate jello shots, holiday dessert, boozy jello shots, peppermint schnapps, chocolate pudding shots, easy holiday treat