Sweet, creamy, and full of banana flavor, these banana pudding shots are a simple no-bake adult treat that’s perfect for parties, barbecues, and any gathering where you want a playful dessert cocktail. With layers of smooth pudding, crunchy cookie crumbs, and a whipped topping, these miniature desserts deliver classic banana pudding taste in a fun, shareable format.
“These banana pudding shots are creamy, sweet, and easy to make ahead for a party.”
– Becky
This recipe uses familiar pantry ingredients to produce a rich, layered dessert that tastes like the classic Southern favorite. The base is instant banana cream pudding whipped with milk and a splash of rum for an adult version. Crushed cookies add a buttery crunch between pudding layers, and a dollop of whipped topping with a banana slice finishes each shot for presentation.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients You Will Need
- Banana Pudding Shots Variations
- How to Make Banana Pudding Shots
- Expert Tips
- Banana Pudding Shots FAQs
- More Easy Party Drinks
- Banana Pudding Shots Recipe
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 box Jell-O banana cream pudding mix (6 oz) – the foundation for the classic banana flavor.
- 1 cup milk – to whisk the pudding to a creamy consistency.
- 1 cup Malibu rum (or your preferred rum or vodka) – coconut rum adds a sweet, tropical note; replace with extra milk for a non-alcoholic version.
- 1 cup Lorna Doone cookies, crushed – or swap for vanilla wafers for a more traditional texture.
- Whipped cream – for topping each shot just before serving.
- Sliced bananas – for garnish and a fresh banana boost.
Full ingredient list is included in the recipe card below.
Banana Pudding Shots Variations
- Alcohol-free option: Omit the rum and increase the milk by one cup to keep the texture smooth and creamy.
- Vanilla twist: Swap the banana pudding mix for instant vanilla pudding for a subtler banana presence or to cater to guests who prefer vanilla.
- Cookie swap: Use mini vanilla wafer cookies instead of Lorna Doone for a closer imitation of layered banana pudding.
- Extra layers: Add multiple thin layers of pudding and crumbs for a visually striking, thicker dessert cup.
How to Make Banana Pudding Shots
- In a mixing bowl, combine the banana cream pudding mix with 1 cup milk and 1 cup Malibu rum. Beat on high until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Pulse half of the cookies in a blender or food processor until you have fine crumbs. Spoon the pudding into shot glasses until each is half full. Add a layer of cookie crumbs, then top with more pudding.
- Chill the filled glasses in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until ready to serve. Just before serving, top each shot with whipped cream and a fresh banana slice on the rim.
Expert Tips
- Chill for best texture: Refrigerate the shots long enough for the pudding to set; this improves both flavor and mouthfeel.
- Add toppings last: Wait to add whipped cream and banana slices until just before serving so they look fresh and don’t weep.
- Crush cookies finely: A fine crumb blends better with the pudding and creates cleaner layers that are pleasing to the eye.
- Make ahead: These shots hold well for a day in the fridge—assemble and cover, then add garnishes when you serve.
Banana Pudding Shots FAQs
Yes. Make the shots up to a day ahead, keep them refrigerated, and add the whipped cream and banana slices right before serving for the best presentation.
Yes. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve to maintain texture and food safety.
Yes. Substitute the rum with an extra cup of milk for a kid-friendly or alcohol-free option.
Expect about 12 to 14 shots depending on the size of your glasses or cups.
More Easy Party Drinks
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Pumpkin Spice Creamer
Recipe is intended for adults 21 and over when alcohol is added. Please drink responsibly and follow the legal drinking age in your country or region.
If you try this recipe or others from Celebrating Simply, please leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments. Your feedback helps improve future recipes.
Banana Pudding Shots
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Mixer
- Shot glasses or small cups
Ingredients
- 1 box Jell-O Banana Cream Pudding Mix (6 oz)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup Malibu rum (or substitute with milk for alcohol-free)
- 1 cup Lorna Doone cookies, crushed
Topping: Whipped Cream and Sliced Bananas
Instructions
- Place the banana cream pudding mix in a mixing bowl. Add the milk and rum, and mix on high until combined and the pudding thickens.
- Pulse half of the cookies in a blender until they form crumbs. Fill each shot glass halfway with the pudding mixture, add a layer of cookie crumbs, then top with another layer of pudding.
- Refrigerate the glasses for about 30 minutes or until ready to serve. Before serving, top with whipped cream and add a fresh banana slice to each glass.
Notes
Chill before serving: Refrigerating yields a firmer texture and better flavor.
Add toppings last: Add whipped cream and banana slices right before serving to keep them fresh.
Crush cookies evenly: Fine crumbs create cleaner layers and a nicer mouthfeel.
Make ahead: Assemble up to one day in advance and store covered in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
Calories: 111 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 2 g | Sugar: 4 g
Nutrition information is an approximation.
Additional Info
Course: Cocktails, Drinks
Cuisine: American
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