Oh my goodness, you have to try these mini dark chocolate dessert shots! I first made them for a last-minute dinner party when I needed something impressive but didn’t have time for baking. These rich little beauties saved the day, they’re ridiculously easy to whip up but look so elegant lined up on a tray. The best part? You probably already have everything you need in your pantry right now.
I love how these chocolate shots feel like a fancy restaurant dessert but take just minutes of active time. The dark chocolate melts into this velvety, luxurious texture that makes everyone think you slaved for hours. Trust me, once you see how simple these are to make (and how quickly they disappear at parties), they’ll become your go-to dessert for every occasion from girls’ night to holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Dark Chocolate Dessert Shots
Let me count the ways these little chocolate wonders will steal your heart:
- Quick magic: Ready in about 15 minutes of hands-on time, perfect when surprise guests arrive!
- Rich flavor bomb: That deep dark chocolate taste satisfies cravings without being overly sweet.
- Party superstar: Their elegant shot glass presentation makes any gathering instantly fancier.
- Make-ahead dream: They actually taste better after chilling, so no last-minute stress.
- Endless fun: Top with berries, whipped cream, or sea salt for your own signature twist.
Honestly, I’ve never served these without someone asking for the recipe. They’re that good.
PrintIrresistible Mini Dark Chocolate Dessert Shots in 15 Minutes
Rich mini dark chocolate dessert shots perfect for parties or small treats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering.
- Pour hot cream over dark chocolate chips in a bowl.
- Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Add butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well.
- Pour into small shot glasses or molds.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use high quality dark chocolate for best results.
- Can be made 2 days ahead and stored refrigerated.
- Top with whipped cream or berries if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shot
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Ingredients for Mini Dark Chocolate Dessert Shots
Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible chocolate shots (and why each ingredient matters):
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips: Go for high quality here, it makes all the difference in flavor and smooth texture. I like 60-70% cacao.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Full fat only, please! This creates that luxurious, velvety mouthfeel we’re after.
- 1 tbsp butter: Just a pat adds richness and helps the chocolate set with the perfect consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Pure vanilla rounds out the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- Pinch of salt: Trust me, this tiny bit makes the chocolate taste even more chocolatey.
See? Simple ingredients, magical results. Now let’s get mixing!
Equipment You’ll Need
Gathering your tools is half the battle! Here’s what I always grab when making these chocolate shots:
- Small saucepan: For heating the cream gently without scorching it
- Mixing bowl: Glass or ceramic works best for melting the chocolate
- Whisk or spatula: My trusty silicone spatula never fails me for smooth mixing
- Shot glasses or mini molds: I’ve collected cute little glass cups just for these!
That’s it, no fancy equipment needed. Now let’s make some chocolate magic!
How to Make Mini Dark Chocolate Dessert Shots
Okay, let’s get to the fun part! Making these chocolate shots is easier than you think, but there are a few tricks I’ve learned over the years to make them absolutely perfect every time. Follow these steps and you’ll have restaurant-worthy desserts in no time.
Step 1: Heat the Cream
First, grab your small saucepan and pour in that glorious heavy cream. Heat it over medium-low heat until you see tiny bubbles form around the edges, about 2 minutes. Don’t let it boil! We want it just hot enough to melt chocolate, not scorch it. I always hover nearby and stir occasionally because cream can go from perfect to boiling over in seconds.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
Here’s where the magic happens! Pour your chocolate chips into a heatproof bowl, then slowly drizzle the hot cream over them. Now walk away for exactly 2 minutes, no cheating! This resting time lets the chocolate soften properly. When you come back, start stirring gently from the center outward until you’ve got the smoothest, shiniest chocolate ganache you’ve ever seen. If you hit any stubborn lumps, just keep stirring, they’ll melt eventually.
Step 3: Add Flavor Enhancers
Now for the flavor boosters! Drop in that pat of butter, it’ll make the texture extra silky. Then add vanilla and that pinch of salt (don’t skip this, it’s the secret weapon!). Stir everything together until completely blended. At this point, I always sneak a tiny taste, you know, for quality control!
Step 4: Pour and Chill
Carefully pour your chocolate mixture into shot glasses or molds, filling them about 3/4 full. Pop them in the fridge for at least 2 hours, I know it’s hard to wait, but trust me, they firm up perfectly this way. If you’re impatient like me, you can speed things up by putting them in the freezer for 30 minutes first.
Tips for Perfect Mini Dark Chocolate Dessert Shots
After making these chocolate shots more times than I can count, here are my foolproof tips for absolute perfection:
- Chocolate matters: Splurge on good quality dark chocolate chips or bars, the better the chocolate, the richer the flavor. I swear by brands with at least 60% cacao.
- Cream control: Heat your cream until it just barely simmers. Boiling can make the chocolate seize up into a grainy mess (been there, cried over that).
- Temperature tricks: If your ganache looks too thin, let it sit at room temp for 5 minutes before pouring. Too thick? Add a teaspoon of warm cream.
- Garnish game: Right before serving, top with fresh raspberries, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a tiny dollop of whipped cream for that extra wow factor.
Follow these tips and you’ll have chocolate shots so good, your guests will think you’re a pastry chef!
Variations for Mini Dark Chocolate Dessert Shots
Oh, the fun you can have with these little chocolate shots! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these delicious twists that always impress my guests:
- Espresso boost: Stir in 1/2 tsp instant espresso powder with the vanilla for a mocha kick that coffee lovers adore
- Orange delight: Add 1 tsp orange zest to the mix, the citrus brightens the rich chocolate beautifully
- Spiced version: A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper adds warmth and complexity
- Nutty goodness: Top with crushed toasted hazelnuts or almonds for crunch
- Berry bonanza: Drop a fresh raspberry or strawberry slice in each glass before pouring
Honestly, I’ve never met a variation I didn’t like, have fun experimenting with your own creations!
Variations for Mini Dark Chocolate Dessert Shots
Oh, the fun you can have with these little chocolate wonders! Here are my favorite ways to mix things up:
- Espresso boost: Stir in 1/2 tsp instant espresso powder with the vanilla for a mocha twist that’ll make coffee lovers swoon.
- Zesty surprise: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the melted chocolate, the citrus brightens the rich dark chocolate beautifully.
- Nutty delight: Sprinkle crushed hazelnuts or almonds on top before chilling for a satisfying crunch.
- Spiced version: A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper adds warmth that pairs perfectly with dark chocolate.
The possibilities are endless, have fun making these your own!
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate shots shine brightest when served slightly chilled but not ice-cold, about 10 minutes out of the fridge gives them the perfect silky texture. For an elegant touch, garnish each with a tiny mint leaf or edible gold dust. They pair magically with espresso after dinner or make a stunning addition to dessert buffets when arranged on a tiered stand. My favorite trick? Serve them with mini spoons so guests can savor every last drop!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
These chocolate shots keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days, just cover them with plastic wrap. If they firm up too much (which happens sometimes), let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes or microwave at 50% power for 5-second bursts until they’re perfectly creamy again. Pro tip: They actually taste better on day two as the flavors meld together!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
These chocolate shots keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 2 days, just cover them with plastic wrap. If they firm up too much, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving. For a quick warm-up, microwave individual shots for 5-second bursts until just softened (but don’t overdo it!).
Nutritional Information
Just so you know, these numbers are estimates, your exact counts will vary based on the specific chocolate and ingredients you use. But for one mini dark chocolate shot (about 2 tablespoons), you’re looking at roughly:
- 120 calories: A perfectly portioned treat
- 9g fat: Mostly the good kind from chocolate and cream
- 10g carbs: With 2g coming from fiber
- 2g protein: A little bonus from the dairy
Not bad for such a luxurious little indulgence, right? Everything in moderation, including moderation, that’s my motto! If you are looking for more dessert ideas, check out Family Tastes for inspiration.
Nutritional Information
Just so you know, these nutrition facts are estimates, your exact numbers may vary based on the specific chocolate and ingredients you use. Each mini dark chocolate shot typically contains about 120 calories, 9g fat (5g saturated), 10g carbs (2g fiber, 8g sugar), and 2g protein. Not bad for such a decadent little treat! Remember, dark chocolate packs antioxidants too, so you’re basically eating health food… right?
Frequently Asked Questions
I get asked about these chocolate shots all the time, here are the answers to the most common questions that pop up:
Can I Make Mini Dark Chocolate Dessert Shots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, they taste even better after chilling overnight. Just cover them well and store in the fridge for up to 2 days, the flavors develop beautifully over time. If you need more make-ahead dessert inspiration, check out this recipe for no-bake chocolate strawberry cheesecake.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
While heavy cream gives the best texture, you can substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just know it’ll have a slightly different mouthfeel and subtle coconut flavor.
How Do I Prevent the Chocolate from Seizing?
The key is gentle heat! Don’t let your cream boil, and always stir slowly when combining with chocolate. If it does seize, add a teaspoon of warm cream and stir like crazy to rescue it. For more tips on making perfect desserts, you might enjoy this guide on easy Valentine’s Day desserts.
Now it’s your turn, try this recipe and tell me in the comments how your chocolate shots turned out! Did you add any fun twists? I’m always looking for new ideas to try. Perhaps you’ll enjoy making these mini cheesecake dessert shooters next!