Bring a playful twist to holiday gatherings with the Naughty Elf Cocktail! This festive drink combines the cool flavor of peppermint schnapps with rich chocolate liqueur and cream for a decadent, dessert-like experience. Rimmed with crushed candy canes and a swirl of chocolate sauce, it’s as deliciously naughty as it sounds.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy

Equipment
- Small plate
Ingredients
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur
- 2 oz cream
- Crushed peppermint candy canes for rimming
- Chocolate sauce for garnish
- candy cane and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Spread crushed peppermint candy canes on a small plate. Run a bit of chocolate sauce along the rim of your glass, then dip the rim into the crushed candy canes to coat evenly. Add a small drizzle of chocolate sauce inside the glass for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Set the glass aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the peppermint schnapps, chocolate liqueur, and cream.
- Fill the shaker with ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and creamy.
- Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass.
- Add extra candy cane pieces or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top for a festive finish, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Frosty Glass: Chill your glass in the freezer beforehand for an extra-cool serving experience.
- Rim Customization: Try mixing the crushed candy canes with a bit of coarse sugar for added texture on the rim.
- Sweetness Balance: If you prefer a milder peppermint flavor, reduce the schnapps slightly and add a bit more cream to soften the drink’s sweetness.
Tasting Notes
The Naughty Elf Cocktail is a delightful blend of rich chocolate and cool peppermint, perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. The cream smooths out the bold flavors, giving it a silky, dessert-like quality. The peppermint candy cane rim and chocolate drizzle add a festive touch to each sip, making this cocktail a fun, indulgent treat for the holiday season.