Cranberry Peppermint Twist

I’ve made this Cranberry Peppermint Twist for friends countless times, and it always plays out the same way. Someone takes a sip, pauses, then smiles as if solving a small puzzle. They tilt their head and ask what’s in it, which always makes me smile. The color grabs attention first, but the flavor keeps it, and that moment never gets old.

This drink fits easily into busy weeks. You get a clean mix of cranberry, mint, and vodka, with no long ingredient list. The steps are simple, so you can shake one up even when tired. The polished look is perfect for hosting without complicated prep. On quiet nights, it still feels like a treat.

That’s why the Cranberry Peppermint Twist is a staple in my kitchen. It mixes quickly, tastes bright, and sparks conversation. Whether at a holiday gathering or a quiet night, this cocktail fits. It blends familiar cranberry with playful peppermint, bringing people together and adding a spark to the moment.

Why You’ll Love This

This drink brings bold color, fresh mint taste, quick prep, simple ingredients, and is perfect for nearly any occasion, even when you’re short on time.

• The bright red color adds a holiday look that guests notice
• The flavor stays light but still has a clean mint finish
• The steps are quick enough for busy hosts
• You only need a few ingredients from any grocery store
• It works for small nights at home or big gatherings
• It fits anyone who likes sweet drinks with a gentle kick

Thanks to these benefits, the Cranberry Peppermint Twist becomes a recipe you’ll reach for often.

Ingredients

The recipe stays simple and keeps the flavor crisp. Cranberry juice adds depth and color. Peppermint schnapps gives a cool lift. Vodka ties the mix together. The candy cane rim gives a soft mint scent that sets the tone for the Cranberry Peppermint Twist Cocktail.

• 1.5 ounces Vodka
• 1 ounce cranberry juice
• 0.5 ounce peppermint schnapps
• Crushed candy canes for rimming the glass

Vodka acts as a smooth base. Cranberry juice provides bright tartness. Peppermint schnapps adds a cool mint taste that stands out. Candy canes release mint aroma before the first sip.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Nearly any vodka works, but certain brands taste cleaner. Peppermint variants range from stronger to milder mint, so choose based on your taste.

• Tito’s has a soft finish that mixes well with cranberry
• Ketel One adds a smooth texture for a fuller sip
• Smirnoff keeps the recipe budget-friendly
• Rumple Minze hits a stronger mint for people who like bold flavor
• A drop or two of peppermint extract works if you’re out of schnapps, but start small
• Unsweetened cranberry juice helps balance the sweetness from the candy rim

These options let you adjust the Cranberry Peppermint Twist to your taste.

Equipment and Glassware

This recipe uses simple equipment. A shaker chills the drink fast. A rocks glass or coupe shows off the color. A bowl and plate help rim the glass. You can make this drink in any kitchen.

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Martini Glass
• Shallow bowl or
• Small plate

No shaker? Use a jar with a tight lid. For a lighter sip, rim only half the glass. Fresh ice gives a clean flavor, and a chilled glass makes the Cranberry Peppermint Twist Cocktail smoother.

How to Make It

The method is quick and clean. Once the glass is ready, the rest comes together fast. It’s easy to make several drinks without slowing down. Cold ingredients and good shaking help the Cranberry Peppermint Twist shine.

1. Pour a little water into a shallow bowl and dip the rim of your glass into it.
2. Spread crushed candy canes on a plate and dip the rim into the candy until coated.
3. Add ice to a cocktail shaker.
4. Pour in 1.5 ounces of vodka, 1 ounce of cranberry juice, and 0.5 ounce of peppermint schnapps.
5. Shake until the shaker feels cold.
6. Strain into the prepared glass and serve right away.

You can add a mint leaf or a few fresh cranberries for a simple garnish.

Pro Tips

Small changes can enhance the drink, based on your style.

• Crush candy canes with a rolling pin for even pieces
• Use fresh ice so there are no freezer flavors
• Shake longer for a colder sip
• Rim only half the glass if you’re watching sweetness
• Add a splash of club soda for a lighter version
• Chill your vodka before mixing
• Store leftover candy cane pieces for future batches
• Use a fine mesh strainer for a smoother pour

These tips help you adjust the Cranberry Peppermint Twist Cocktail the way you like it.

Variations

You can make small changes to keep the flavor fresh. Each twist gives the Cranberry Peppermint Twist a new feel.

• Mix half cranberry juice and half white cranberry juice for a softer color
• Swap in vanilla vodka for a smooth finish
• Add one teaspoon of fresh lime juice for brightness
• Use crème de menthe if you prefer a milder mint
• Add a splash of pomegranate juice for deeper fruit flavor

Each change adds a fun shift to the drink.

When to Serve and Pairings

The Cranberry Peppermint Twist Cocktail is perfect for holiday parties, winter dinners, gift exchanges, or cozy nights at home. Its color brightens any table, and its flavor fits before dinner, with dessert, or as a nightcap.

Try pairing it with light sweets or small bites.

• Chocolate chip cookies
• Soft cheeses
• Fresh berries
• Simple cheesecakes
• Mini brownies

These pair well with cranberry and mint flavor without making the drink too sweet.

Storage and Serving Notes

This cocktail tastes best shaken fresh, but you can batch the base to save time. Mix vodka, cranberry juice, and schnapps ahead, chill for up to a day, and shake each serving with ice. Rim glasses just before serving since candy canes soften quickly.

FAQs

People often have a few questions about the Cranberry Peppermint Twist, so here’s a clear rundown to help you mix it with confidence.

Is this drink strong?
The alcohol level stays moderate, so most people find it smooth and easy to sip. The cranberry and peppermint help soften the vodka, which keeps the flavor gentle.

Can I use flavored vodka instead of plain?
Yes, but keep the flavor light so it doesn’t block the mint or cranberry. Vanilla vodka works well, but anything too bold can change the balance.

Can peppermint extract replace peppermint schnapps?
It can, but use a tiny amount because the extract is stronger. Start with one or two drops. Shake and taste before adding more.

Can I swap the candy cane rim with other mint candies?
Yes, crushed mint candies work fine. The flavor stays close, and the texture feels the same on the rim of the glass.

How do I make this drink sweeter?
Add a little extra cranberry juice or use a sweetened version instead of unsweetened. You can even leave more candy on the rim for a sweeter sip.

Can I batch this for parties?
Yes, mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and schnapps ahead of time, then chill. Shake each serving with ice to keep it cold and fresh.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy this recipe, here are a few drinks with a similar style that work well for winter gatherings.

• Frosted Berry Spritz, a fruit-forward drink with a clean finish
• New Year’s Sparkler, a sweet drink with a crisp feel
• Winter Berry Cocktail, a simple shaken drink with a smooth taste
• Citrus Breeze Cocktail, a bright mix with a refreshing tang