The Peppermint White Russian is a creamy and festive twist on a classic drink. This cocktail mixes rich coffee liqueur, smooth vodka, and refreshing peppermint flavor for a holiday treat.
I love enjoying this drink while wrapping presents or watching holiday movies. It’s like a cozy hug in a glass! And yes, the peppermint brings a fun holiday cheer to each sip. 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Use a good quality vodka for a smooth base. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using flavored vodka, such as vanilla or whipped cream vodka.
Coffee Liqueur: Kahlúa is a popular choice, but any coffee liqueur works. For a non-alcoholic version, try cold brew coffee mixed with a bit of sugar syrup to replicate the flavor.
Peppermint Schnapps: This adds a festive touch. If you prefer less sweetness, use a mint extract instead, but reduce the amount to a few drops since it’s much stronger.
Heavy Cream/Half-and-Half: Heavy cream gives a rich taste, but you can use whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk if you want to lighten it up or make it vegan.
How Do I Layer the Cream Perfectly?
Layering the cream creates a beautiful look in your Peppermint White Russian. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start with a glass full of ice, then add your vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps.
- To layer the cream, take a spoon and hold it upside down over the drink.
- Slowly pour the heavy cream or half-and-half over the back of the spoon. This will help it float on top instead of mixing in.
- If you want, stir gently once or twice for a more blended drink but keep some of that beautiful layered look!
Peppermint White Russian Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 2 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
- Ice cubes
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candy (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes just about 5-10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect addition to any holiday gathering or cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by filling a rocks glass with ice cubes. This will chill your drink and keep it refreshing!
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Pour the vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps over the ice in the glass. The mix of these flavors will form the delicious base of your cocktail.
3. Add the Cream:
To create a beautiful layered look, take the heavy cream or half-and-half and gently pour it over the back of a spoon so it floats on top of the other ingredients. If you want a more blended drink, feel free to stir it lightly!
4. Finish with Whipped Cream:
If you’re feeling indulgent, add a generous swirl of whipped cream on top for extra creaminess. This step makes your drink look extra festive!
5. Garnish:
Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candy over the whipped cream to add a pop of color and a delightful minty crunch. It’s the perfect holiday touch!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Peppermint White Russian immediately and enjoy this creamy, minty treat. It’s sure to bring a smile to your face!
Can I Use Different Liqueurs?
Absolutely! While Kahlúa is the traditional coffee liqueur, you can experiment with different brands or even flavored liqueurs like hazelnut or vanilla for a twist. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile a bit.
Can I Make This Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! For a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka and liqueurs with cold brew coffee or coffee-flavored soda, and use peppermint extract in place of schnapps. Add cream or non-dairy alternatives and follow the same steps for a delicious mocktail!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store the unblended components separately in the fridge. Mix the ingredients again before serving, as the cream and schnapps may settle. To maintain freshness, consume within a couple of days.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
This cocktail is best served fresh, but you can mix the vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the cream and garnish right before serving to keep everything looking and tasting great!
