The Holiday Peppermint White Russian transforms the classic creamy cocktail into a festive winter treat that tastes like the holidays in a glass. This indulgent drink combines smooth vodka, rich coffee liqueur, and fresh cream with a refreshing twist of peppermint that perfectly balances the sweetness. The result is a dessert-like cocktail that’s equally at home at holiday parties or as an after-dinner treat by the fireplace. With its beautiful layers and candy cane garnish, this drink is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The peppermint adds a cooling freshness that cuts through the richness, making each sip feel both decadent and refreshing at the same time.
Serving Quantity: 2 cocktails
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces vodka
- 2 ounces coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua)
- 4 ounces heavy cream
- 1 ounce peppermint schnapps
- 2 tablespoons crushed candy canes
- 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- 2 whole candy canes (for garnish)
- Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 425
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
1. Prepare the Glasses
Take two old-fashioned glasses or rocks glasses and drizzle chocolate syrup around the inside of each glass in a decorative pattern. Tilt and rotate the glasses so the chocolate creates pretty swirls down the sides. Place the crushed candy canes on a small plate. Run a damp paper towel around the rim of each glass, then dip the rims into the crushed candy canes, rotating to coat evenly. Set the prepared glasses aside while you mix the cocktails. The candy cane rim adds both visual appeal and an extra hit of peppermint with every sip.
2. Fill the Glasses with Ice
Add ice cubes to each prepared glass, filling them about three-quarters full. Use large ice cubes if you have them, as they melt more slowly and won’t dilute your drink as quickly. The ice will keep your cocktail perfectly chilled and refreshing. Make sure the ice doesn’t disturb the chocolate drizzle pattern you created on the inside of the glass.
3. Mix the Vodka and Coffee Liqueur
In a cocktail shaker or a small pitcher, combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps. If using a shaker, add a few ice cubes and shake vigorously for 10 seconds to chill the mixture thoroughly. If using a pitcher, simply stir the ingredients together well. The peppermint schnapps is what gives this cocktail its holiday twist, so don’t skip it. The combination of coffee and peppermint might sound unusual, but it tastes remarkably similar to a peppermint mocha.
4. Pour Over Ice
Divide the vodka mixture evenly between your two prepared glasses, pouring it slowly over the ice. You should use about 3 ounces of the mixture per glass. Watch as the liquid cascades over the ice and mingles with the chocolate drizzle on the sides of the glass. The cocktail will have a beautiful amber color at this stage.
5. Add the Cream Layer
Here’s where the magic happens. Slowly pour 2 ounces of heavy cream over the back of a spoon held just above the surface of each drink. This technique helps the cream float on top, creating those beautiful layers that make a White Russian so visually appealing. The cream should sit on top of the darker liquor mixture, creating a gorgeous two-tone effect. If you prefer a mixed drink rather than layered, simply stir the cream in with a spoon.
6. Add Festive Toppings
Top each cocktail with a generous dollop of whipped cream. You can use canned whipped cream for convenience or whip your own for a more luxurious touch. Sprinkle a bit more crushed candy cane over the whipped cream for extra peppermint flavor and sparkle. Add chocolate shavings if desired for an even more decadent presentation. Finally, hook a whole candy cane on the rim of each glass as both a stirrer and a festive garnish.
Tips for the Perfect Holiday Peppermint White Russian
Use quality vodka for the smoothest taste, as it’s one of the main flavors in this cocktail. Cheap vodka can have a harsh bite that competes with the other ingredients. If you can’t find peppermint schnapps, you can substitute with half an ounce of peppermint extract mixed with half an ounce of simple syrup, though the alcohol content will be slightly lower. For an extra-rich version, substitute half and half or Irish cream for the heavy cream. Some people even use vanilla ice cream for an ultra-indulgent milkshake-like consistency. Make your own chocolate drizzle by melting chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil for a thinner consistency that’s easier to drizzle. These cocktails are best enjoyed immediately while they’re cold and the layers are still distinct. If you’re making them for a party, you can prepare the vodka mixture ahead of time and keep it chilled, then assemble the drinks when guests arrive. For a non-alcoholic version, use strong cold brew coffee instead of coffee liqueur, omit the vodka and schnapps, and add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cream before pouring. The candy cane rim can be prepared hours in advance if you keep the glasses in a cool, dry place. For adults only, these cocktails pack a significant alcohol punch, so serve responsibly and consider offering smaller portions if serving multiple cocktails throughout an evening.
