If you’re looking to wow your friends at the next party or just treat yourself to a delightful little indulgence, the Key Lime Pie Pudding Shots Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Bursting with that tart, sweet key lime flavor and combined with creamy cheesecake pudding and a splash of Rum Chata, these shots deliver a perfect balance of zest and richness—plus the graham cracker crust base adds just the right crunch. They’re refreshingly fun, super easy to make, and guaranteed to become your go-to dessert that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s great about this recipe is how simple but essential each ingredient is. Every component plays a crucial role in layering the flavor, texture, and classic Key Lime Pie charm you’ll taste in every shot.
- 1 1/2 Cups Graham Crackers (crushed): Forms the buttery, crunchy crust layer and adds that signature pie feel.
- 2 boxes Cheesecake Pudding (3.4 ounce): Gives the creamy, tangy cheesecake base that’s silky and luscious.
- 1/4 cup Nellie and Joe’s Key Lime Juice: The star ingredient for that authentic tart key lime zing.
- 1/4 cup Rum Chata: Adds a smooth, cinnamon-spiked creaminess and an adult twist.
- 1 cup Milk: Needed to properly blend the pudding and create the perfect consistency.
- Reddi Whip – Whipped Topping: For the light, fluffy finish that balances the shot’s acidity.
- 3 Key Limes (slices): Fresh slices to garnish and amp up the lime aroma and visual appeal.
- Neon Lime Food Coloring Gel: Just a few drops bring the vibrant green hue that screams key lime pie fun.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Pudding Shots Recipe
Step 1: Crush the Graham Crackers
Start by placing the graham crackers in a blender or food processor and pulse just a few times until they’re crushed into coarse crumbs. This will form the crisp, crumbly crust that lays the foundation of each shot.
Step 2: Layer the Crust
Next, spoon the crushed graham cracker crumbs into the bottoms of your shooter cups, pressing lightly to create a compact base layer. This helps keep the crust at the bottom while you build the creamy layers on top.
Step 3: Mix the Pudding Base
In a mixing bowl, combine both boxes of cheesecake pudding mix with the milk, Nellie and Joe’s Key Lime Juice, and the Rum Chata. Stir everything together vigorously until the pudding mixture is smooth and thick with that signature tangy, creamy blend.
Step 4: Add Color and Blend
Bring these pudding shots to life by adding a few drops of the neon lime food coloring gel. Stir thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed, giving your shots that inviting, bright green glow reminiscent of fresh key lime pie filling.
Step 5: Assemble with Whipped Topping
Carefully spoon the lime cheesecake pudding mixture over the graham cracker layer in each cup. Then, top each shot generously with Reddi Whip whipped topping to add a light and airy counterpoint to the rich pudding.
Step 6: Garnish with Fresh Key Lime Slices
Rinse and thinly slice your fresh key limes. Gently place a slice on top of the whipped cream in each cup. Not only does this add a pop of fresh lime aroma, but it also makes these shots look incredibly festive and inviting.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Pop the pudding shots into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let them set and chill. Serve cold to enjoy the perfect refreshing burst of that classic key lime pie flavor packed into a tiny, celebratory shot glass.
How to Serve Key Lime Pie Pudding Shots Recipe
Garnishes
The simple slice of fresh key lime on top is a beautiful and natural garnish, but for extra flair, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or a tiny mint leaf. These little touches elevate the look and flavor, making your pudding shots irresistible to the eye and palate.
Side Dishes
Since these are sweet and creamy shots, pair them with light, salty snack foods like tortilla chips with guacamole or a crunchy vegetable platter. The contrast will balance sweetness with savory bites and keep your guests coming back for more of both.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your Key Lime Pie Pudding Shots Recipe by serving them in mini mason jars or clear plastic shot glasses decorated with ribbon or tropical-themed drink umbrellas. Layering the pudding with a garnish of edible flowers or zest can also make for an unforgettable presentation that’s perfect for parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be tough!), keep them covered in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days, though they’re best enjoyed within the first 24 hours for optimal texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freezing pudding shots isn’t recommended as it affects the texture, causing the creamy layers to become grainy or watery upon thawing. For best results, make the pudding shots fresh to retain that smooth, luscious consistency every time.
Reheating
Since these are served chilled and are not cooked, reheating isn’t necessary or advised. They’re designed to be refreshing and cool, so just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime juice instead of Key Lime Juice?
While regular lime juice works in a pinch, the unique tartness and fragrance of authentic key lime juice truly make this recipe shine and provide that classic pie flavor that’s hard to replicate.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of this recipe?
Definitely! Simply omit the Rum Chata or substitute it with an equal part of vanilla cream or coconut milk to keep the creaminess without the alcohol while preserving the overall flavor balance.
What kind of pudding mix should I use?
Cheesecake pudding mix adds the perfect tangy creaminess that complements the key lime beautifully. Vanilla pudding is an alternative, but it won’t have quite the same depth or richness that cheesecake pudding provides.
Can I prepare these pudding shots in larger cups?
Absolutely! Using larger cups makes for a more indulgent dessert portion, but adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly and layer the components carefully for the same delicious effect.
How long do these pudding shots last in the fridge?
They’re best consumed within 24 hours for the freshest taste and texture, but you can store them up to three days refrigerated. Beyond that, the texture and flavor may start to decline.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Key Lime Pie Pudding Shots Recipe a try because it has such a wonderful way of bringing joy and refreshment in every bite-sized shooter. Whether for a festive gathering or a fun weekend treat, these little delights are simple to whip up, gorgeous to serve, and absolutely delicious. Get ready to impress your friends and delight your taste buds with this vibrant twist on a classic dessert!
Print
Key Lime Pie Pudding Shots Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 shots
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Key Lime Pie Pudding Shots are a fun and delicious twist on the classic dessert, combining the tangy zest of key limes with creamy cheesecake pudding and a boozy splash of Rum Chata. Perfect for parties, these shooter-sized treats offer a blend of crunchy graham cracker crust, smooth lime-infused pudding, and a light whipped topping garnished with fresh key lime slices.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 Cups Graham Crackers (crushed)
Pudding Mixture
- 2 boxes Cheesecake pudding (3.4 ounce each)
- 1 cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Nellie and Joe’s Key Lime Juice
- 1/4 cup Rum Chata
- Neon Lime Food Coloring Gel (a few drops)
Toppings
- Reddi Whip – Whipped Topping (as needed)
- 3 Key Limes (sliced)
Instructions
- Crush the Graham Crackers: Place the graham crackers in a blender and pulse a few times until they are crushed into fine crumbs, creating the base for your pudding shots.
- Prepare the Shooter Cups: Evenly distribute the crushed graham crackers at the bottom of each shooter cup to form a crunchy crust layer.
- Mix the Pudding: In a medium bowl, combine the cheesecake pudding mix with milk, key lime juice, and Rum Chata. Stir well until the mixture is completely smooth and blended.
- Add Food Coloring: Drop in a few drops of neon lime food coloring gel and stir thoroughly to give the pudding mixture a bright, appealing color.
- Assemble the Shots: Spoon or pour the lime pudding mixture over the graham cracker crust in each shooter cup, filling them just below the rim.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Finish each pudding shot by topping with a generous amount of Reddi Whip whipped topping, creating a creamy, fluffy layer.
- Garnish and Chill: Rinse and slice the key limes, and place one slice on top of the whipped cream of each shooter cup. Refrigerate the pudding shots until ready to serve.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy these refreshing, boozy key lime pie pudding shots at your next gathering.
Notes
- To make these shots non-alcoholic, omit the Rum Chata and replace with an equal amount of milk or cream.
- Use fresh key lime juice for the best tangy flavor; bottled juice can be used but may affect freshness.
- Ensure the pudding shots are well chilled before serving for optimal taste and texture.
- For a more intense lime color, add food coloring gradually until desired shade is reached.
- Shooter cups should be small (about 2 ounces) to serve proper portion sizes.
