Peppermint Martini

The peppermint martini is the ultimate holiday cocktail, combining festive charm with refreshing flavors.

Its creamy, minty blend evokes the magic of the season, while candy cane garnishes and frosty glasses add a touch of elegance.

Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire, this cocktail captures the essence of winter with its crisp peppermint notes and comforting richness.

In this guide, you’ll learn to craft the perfect peppermint martini, from essential ingredients to creative garnishing techniques.

With tips for presentation and fun variations, this drink will become your go-to for spreading holiday cheer in every sip!

What Makes the Peppermint Martini Special?

The peppermint martini is a celebration of the season’s signature flavors.

At its heart is the invigorating taste of peppermint, a flavor that instantly brings to mind the crispness of winter mornings and the sweetness of candy canes. Combined with the subtle richness of chocolate liqueur or crème de cacao, the drink strikes the perfect balance between refreshing and indulgent.

For those who enjoy a creamy twist, adding heavy cream or half-and-half transforms the martini into a decadent dessert-like treat, making it the ideal beverage to toast the holidays.

Presentation is key with a peppermint martini, and this cocktail doesn’t disappoint.

The frosty, candy-cane-rimmed glass not only adds a pop of color but also sets the mood for a festive celebration. Swirls of chocolate syrup, dollops of whipped cream, and peppermint stick garnishes elevate the visual appeal, making the drink Instagram-worthy and perfect for holiday parties.

In every way, the peppermint martini is a drink that embodies the joy, warmth, and wonder of the holiday season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need, including exact measurements to make a single serving:

1. Peppermint Schnapps or Peppermint-Flavored Liqueur – 1 oz
   • This is the star ingredient that gives the cocktail its signature minty flavor. Opt for a good-quality peppermint schnapps for a bright, refreshing taste, or use a peppermint-flavored liqueur for a slightly sweeter profile.
2. Vodka – 2 oz
   • Use plain vodka for a clean base or vanilla-flavored vodka to add a subtle sweetness that complements the peppermint and chocolate. A smooth, premium vodka enhances the overall flavor.
3. White Crème de Cacao or Chocolate Liqueur – 1 oz
   • This adds a rich, chocolaty undertone that balances the coolness of the peppermint. White crème de cacao is ideal for maintaining the martini’s light color, but regular chocolate liqueur works if you prefer a deeper hue.
4. Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half (Optional) – 1 oz
   • For those who enjoy a creamy martini, a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half transforms the drink into a luscious dessert cocktail. This ingredient is optional but highly recommended for a decadent twist.
5. Ice
   • Use plenty of ice for shaking the ingredients to chill the drink thoroughly and achieve the smooth, velvety texture essential for a great martini.

Garnishes

1. Crushed Candy Canes or Peppermint Candies – For rimming the glass
   • Crush candy canes or peppermint candies into fine pieces to create a festive, colorful rim for the martini glass. This adds a visual wow factor and an extra burst of peppermint flavor with every sip.
2. Whipped Cream (Optional) – For topping the drink
   • Add a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent finishing touch. It pairs beautifully with the creamy, minty flavors of the martini.
3. Chocolate Shavings or Syrup (Optional) – For garnish
   • Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top of the whipped cream for added richness, or drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring the cocktail for a decorative swirl effect.
4. Peppermint Sticks or Mini Candy Canes – For decoration
   • Place a peppermint stick or mini candy cane on the edge of the glass or use it as a stirrer. This not only looks festive but also infuses extra peppermint flavor into the drink as it rests.

How to Make the Peppermint Martini

Follow these detailed steps to ensure your martini is both visually stunning and deliciously balanced:

Preparation Tips

1. Crushing the Candy Canes for the Rim

• Place unwrapped candy canes or peppermint candies in a zip-top bag.
• Use a rolling pin to crush them into small, evenly-sized pieces. For a finer texture, pulse them briefly in a food processor.
• Tip: Don’t crush them into a powder; leaving some slightly larger bits adds a festive sparkle and texture.

2. Chilling the Martini Glasses

• Place your martini glasses in the freezer 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps keep your drink colder for longer and enhances the frosty aesthetic.
• Tip: If short on time, fill the glasses with ice water while you prepare the drink, then empty and dry them just before use.

Mixing the Drink

3. Prepare Your Cocktail Shaker

• Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice. The ice is essential for properly chilling the drink and diluting it slightly for a smoother taste.
• Tip: Use fresh, high-quality ice to avoid introducing off-flavors from freezer odors.

4. Add the Ingredients

• Measure and pour the following into the shaker:
  • 2 ounces of vodka (plain or vanilla-flavored for extra sweetness).
  • 1 ounce of peppermint schnapps or peppermint-flavored liqueur.
  • 1 ounce of white crème de cacao or chocolate liqueur.
  • Optional: Add 1 ounce of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy variation.

5. Shake the Mixture

• Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This ensures the ingredients are well-mixed, chilled, and slightly aerated for a silky texture.
• Tip: Hold the shaker with both hands to maintain a tight seal and keep it balanced as you shake.

Garnishing the Glass

6. Rim the Glass

• Pour a small amount of water, simple syrup, or light corn syrup onto a shallow plate.
• Invert the chilled martini glass and dip the rim into the liquid.
• Immediately dip the wet rim into the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, rotating to coat the rim evenly.

7. Optional: Add a Chocolate Swirl

• Use a squeeze bottle or spoon to drizzle chocolate syrup along the inside of the glass. Rotate the glass slowly as you drizzle to create decorative swirls or lines.
• Tip: Chill the glass for another minute after adding the syrup to prevent it from melting when the drink is poured.

Serving the Peppermint Martini

8. Strain the Cocktail

• Using the strainer attached to your shaker, carefully pour the chilled cocktail into the prepared martini glass.

9. Add the Final Touches

• Add optional toppings:
  • A dollop of whipped cream for a creamy, indulgent presentation.
  • Sprinkle chocolate shavings or crushed candy canes over the whipped cream for added flair.

• Garnish with a mini candy cane or peppermint stick on the rim of the glass or resting in the drink.

10. Serve Immediately

• Present your martini to guests or enjoy it yourself while it’s still perfectly chilled!

Tips for a Better Taste and Outcome

✅ Ingredient Quality Matters: Use high-quality vodka and liqueurs for a smoother, more refined flavor. Cheap peppermint schnapps or vodka can overpower the drink with harsh notes.

✅ Customize Sweetness: Adjust the proportions of crème de cacao or peppermint schnapps to suit your sweetness preference. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the crème de cacao slightly.

✅ Experiment with Flavors: Add a tiny drop of pure peppermint extract for an extra burst of mint flavor if needed, but use sparingly as it’s highly concentrated.

Drink Variations to Try

The peppermint martini is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor the recipe to match your personal taste or the occasion.

Here are some creative and delicious variations to try:

Creamy Peppermint Martini

• How to Make It:
  • Prepare the classic peppermint martini recipe but add 1 ounce of heavy cream or half-and-half to the cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously to fully blend the cream with the other ingredients, creating a rich and velvety texture.
• Why It Works:
  • The addition of cream softens the sharpness of the peppermint and enhances the drink’s dessert-like quality, making it perfect for those who prefer indulgent, creamy cocktails.
• Serving Tip:
  • Top with whipped cream and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies for an extra layer of decadence. A dusting of cocoa powder or grated chocolate adds a finishing touch.

Chocolate Peppermint Martini

• How to Make It:
  • Increase the crème de cacao to 1.5 ounces to emphasize the chocolate notes. Alternatively, add a drizzle of chocolate syrup to the shaker before mixing or swirl it inside the glass before pouring the cocktail.
• Why It Works:
  • The chocolate complements the peppermint, creating a flavor profile reminiscent of peppermint bark or chocolate mint desserts. This version is a hit with chocolate lovers.
• Serving Tip:
  • Garnish with chocolate shavings or a chocolate-dipped candy cane for a sophisticated presentation.

Non-Alcoholic Peppermint Martini

• How to Make It:
  • Replace the vodka, peppermint schnapps, and crème de cacao with the following:
    • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract.
    • 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup.
    • 2 ounces heavy cream or milk (adjust based on desired richness).
  • Shake with ice and strain into a glass.
• Why It Works:
  • This family-friendly version retains the festive flavors of a peppermint martini without the alcohol, making it suitable for kids or guests who don’t drink.
• Serving Tip:
  • Rim the glass with crushed candy canes and top with whipped cream for the full festive effect. You can also use a splash of sparkling water for a light, fizzy twist.

Spiked Hot Peppermint Martini

• How to Make It:
  • Heat the mixture of vodka, peppermint schnapps, crème de cacao, and heavy cream (if using) in a small saucepan over low heat until warm. Do not boil, as the alcohol will evaporate.
  • Pour into a heat-safe glass or mug, skipping the ice-shaking step.
• Why It Works:
  • Serving the martini warm turns it into a comforting, holiday-inspired beverage that’s perfect for chilly winter nights. The heat enhances the peppermint aroma and creates a soothing, cozy experience.
• Serving Tip:
  • Top with whipped cream and add a peppermint stick for stirring. Serve in a festive mug or heatproof glass for a cozy vibe.

Other Fun Twists

• Iced Peppermint Mocha Martini:
  • Add a shot of espresso or coffee liqueur to the classic recipe for a caffeine kick. It’s like your favorite peppermint mocha but with a martini twist!
• Mint-Chocolate Martini:
  • Use crème de menthe in place of peppermint schnapps for a more herbal mint flavor. Add a small amount of Irish cream for extra richness.
• Fruity Peppermint Martini:
  • Add a splash of cranberry juice for a tart contrast to the sweet peppermint. This variation creates a lovely pink hue, perfect for Valentine’s Day or holiday parties.

Pin this post for later!

Peppermint Martini Recipe