Are you ready to upgrade your classic cocktail game? Meet the White Russian’s sultry cousin – the Peppermint White Russian.
It’s a mint-kissed delight that’s part holiday cheer, part grown-up indulgence, and equal parts naughty and nice.
Grab your shaker because this recipe is about to make all your white Christmas dreams come true.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint White Russian
Crowd-Pleasing Presentation: This creamy white drink looks absolutely stunning – especially once you add a festive candy cane garnish. Trust me; it’s totally Insta-worthy.
Temperature Versatility: The Peppermint White Russian is delicious served over ice. Or you can enjoy it slightly warmed for a cozy winter experience.
Customizable Strength: It’s easy to adjust the alcohol content to suit your preference or party vibe. Have guests who don’t drink much? Go a little lighter on the vodka.
Ingredients
- Vodka: This neutral spirit acts as the cocktail’s base. It packs a boozy punch and helps mellow the drink’s sweeter elements.
- Coffee Liqueur: Such as Kahlua. It gives the drink its classic sweet coffee taste.
- Peppermint Schnapps: The holiday twist that transforms a classic White Russian into a festive drink. It’s bright and minty and makes the cocktail feel seasonal and special.
- Heavy Cream: For a creamy, silky-smooth texture.
- Candy Canes: Crush them finely to decorate the rim, and save a few to stick in the drink once it’s ready.
How to Make a Peppermint White Russian
This recipe is very similar to any White Russian recipe, only with a couple of holiday-themed tweaks.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have it ready in no time:
1. PREP THE GLASSES. Use a food processor or rolling pin to crush candy canes into fine pieces. Wet the rims of two glasses and dip them into the crushed candy pieces to decorate. Set aside.
2. MIX THE DRINK. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Then, add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
3. POUR THE DRINKS. Fill the rimmed glasses with ice and strain the drink mixture evenly between them. Top gently with heavy cream.
4. SERVE. If desired, add an extra candy cane to each glass. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Peppermint White Russian
Cocktail recipes don’t require a ton of tips. Here are a few, though:
- Use a spoon. If you want the cream to float, slowly pour it over the back of a spoon.
- Jazz up the rim. If you want a bit of extra sweetness, forget water for the rim. Instead, use honey or white chocolate syrup to help hold the candy pieces in place.
- Variations are okay. Don’t have heavy cream? Use half-and-half or whole milk instead. You could also add a dash of cinnamon or another holiday spice for extra flair.
- Try Baileys. Skip the Kahlua and heavy cream and use Baileys instead.
- Watch the proofs. Peppermint schnapps typically range in proof from 30 to 100. The higher proof you get, the stronger your drink will be. Be mindful when selecting.
- Get creative with the garnishes. Add whatever you like on top! Whipped cream, a chocolate square, or peppermint patties are all excellent options.
More Festive Drinks to Try This Holiday Season
Apple Cider Sangria
White Christmas Punch
Pumpkin Eggnog
Mulled Wine
Peppermint White Russian
2
servings5
minutes395
kcalIf you want something rich, creamy, and boozy this festive season, try this stunning Peppermint White Russian with crushed candy cane garnish.
Ingredients
crushed candy canes, for rim garnish
ice
2-3 ounces vodka, to taste
3 ounces coffee liqueur
1 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
2 ounces heavy cream
Instructions
- Crush 2-3 candy canes into fine pieces. Use a food processor, or place them in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Moisten the rim of two cocktail glasses with a little water or simple syrup. Then, dip the glass rims into the crushed candy cane pieces to create a festive, minty rim.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
- Fill the prepared glasses with fresh ice.
- Strain the liquor mixture evenly between the two glasses.
- Gently pour the heavy cream over the top of each drink, allowing it to float. Serve immediately (with an extra candy cane in each glass, if desired), and enjoy!
Notes
- If desired, use honey or white chocolate syrup instead of water on the rim.
- Substitute whole milk or half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Buy lower-proof schnapps for a lighter drink; higher-proof for a stronger one.
