Peppermint Snowflake Cocktail

December evenings often make me crave drinks that feel calm and familiar. The Peppermint Snowflake Cocktail is one of those recipes that feels festive without trying too hard, and it comes together in just a few minutes. The creamy texture and minty finish make it a natural fit for winter nights.

I love this cocktail because it feels like a holiday treat rather than a strong drink. The vanilla vodka softens the peppermint, while the half and half gives it that smooth, dessert style body. It reminds me of peppermint candies and snowy nights without being overly sweet.

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Why You’ll Love This

The Peppermint Snowflake Cocktail is designed to be comforting and festive without being complicated. It leans into classic holiday flavors while keeping the ingredient list short and manageable. This is the kind of drink you can make on a whim without stressing over prep.

Here are a few reasons this cocktail works so well:

• Creamy texture that feels like a dessert in a glass
• Classic peppermint flavor perfect for christmas cocktails
• Quick to prepare with no advanced techniques
• Great option for after dinner sipping
• Easy to customize for different sweetness levels
• Looks festive with minimal garnish

Once you make it once, it becomes one of those holiday recipes you remember year after year.

Ingredients

This cocktail relies on a few simple ingredients that work best when balanced carefully. The vanilla vodka provides a soft base, while peppermint schnapps brings brightness and seasonal character. Half and half smooths everything out so the flavors blend instead of compete.

You will need:

• 2 oz vanilla vodka
• 2 oz half and half
• 1.5 oz peppermint schnapps
• Sugar for rimming optional
• Peppermint stick for garnish optional

Using fresh dairy and quality spirits helps keep the drink smooth and clean.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

Because this drink has a creamy base, choosing the right spirits helps prevent harsh edges. You do not need expensive bottles, but balanced options make a difference.

Here are a few recommendations and swaps:

• Vanilla Vodka: Absolut Vanilla, Smirnoff Vanilla, or Stoli Vanil all work well. Regular vodka with a splash of vanilla extract can be used if needed.
• Peppermint Schnapps: DeKuyper or Rumple Minze are common options. Use a lighter style if you prefer less intensity.
• Half and Half: Heavy cream can be used for a richer drink, while whole milk makes it lighter.

Stick with similar proof spirits to keep the drink balanced.

Equipment and Glassware

This cocktail does not require much equipment, which makes it perfect for casual entertaining. A shaker helps chill and combine the ingredients evenly.

You will need:

• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Rocks Glass

A chilled glass helps keep the drink cold and enhances the creamy texture.

How to Make It

Making the Peppermint Snowflake Cocktail is straightforward and quick. The key is shaking long enough to fully chill and blend the dairy with the spirits.

1. Pour a small amount of sugar onto a plate. Moisten the rim of your glass with water, then dip it into the sugar to create a frosty rim.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add the vanilla vodka, half and half, and peppermint schnapps.
3. Secure the shaker lid and shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
4. Strain into your prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a peppermint stick if desired and serve immediately.

The result should be smooth, lightly sweet, and refreshing.

Pro Tips

A few small adjustments can help you get the best possible result every time. These tips focus on texture, balance, and presentation.

• Chill your glass ahead of time for best results
• Shake longer than usual to fully blend the dairy
• Taste before serving to adjust peppermint intensity
• Use fresh ice to avoid dilution issues
• Keep sugar rim light so it does not overpower
• Serve immediately for best texture
• Avoid over shaking to prevent thinning

Paying attention to these details makes the drink feel polished and intentional.

Variations

This cocktail is easy to customize depending on your preferences or what you have on hand. Small changes can shift the flavor without losing the holiday feel.

Here are a few ideas to try:

• Swap vanilla vodka for whipped cream vodka
• Add a splash of white chocolate liqueur
• Use chocolate syrup inside the glass for contrast
• Make it lighter with whole milk instead of half and half
• Create a non alcoholic version using peppermint syrup and cream

Each variation keeps the peppermint cocktail spirit intact while offering something new.

When to Serve and Pairings

The Peppermint Snowflake Cocktail shines during winter gatherings and holiday evenings. It works best when served cold and enjoyed slowly.

Great times to serve it include:

• After holiday dinners
• Cookie exchanges or dessert tables
• Christmas movie nights
• Small holiday parties
• Cozy nights at home

Pair it with chocolate desserts, sugar cookies, or simple shortbread for a balanced experience.

Storage and Serving Notes

This cocktail is best made fresh, but some prep can be done ahead. Planning ahead helps when serving multiple guests.

Helpful notes:

• Pre rim glasses and refrigerate
• Measure ingredients ahead of time
• Shake individual servings for best texture
• Do not store mixed dairy cocktails for long periods

Fresh preparation keeps the drink creamy and smooth.

FAQs

Here are answers to common questions about this Peppermint Snowflake Cocktail.

Is this drink very sweet?
It is lightly sweet, but you can reduce sweetness by using less schnapps.

Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes, use peppermint syrup and cream for a mocktail version.

What glass works best?
A coupe or rocks glass both work well.

Can I batch this cocktail?
It is best shaken per serving due to the dairy.

Does it taste like a dessert?
Yes, it has a dessert like quality without being heavy.

More Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy this drink, here are more holiday favorites worth exploring:

• Peppermint White Russian: Creamy and coffee forward
• White Chocolate Martini: Rich and smooth
• Eggnog Martini: A seasonal classic
• Candy Cane Margarita: Sweet and festive
• The Naughty Elf Cocktail: Simple and comforting