Holiday White Chocolate Peppermint Martini Recipe

Looking for a cocktail that captures the magic of the holidays? This White Chocolate Peppermint Martini is creamy, indulgent, and full of festive flavor—perfect for a Christmas party, sipping by the fire or sharing with friends!

When the holidays arrive, there’s nothing like a festive cocktail to set the mood. With its creamy texture, refreshing peppermint twist, and a hint of chocolate and vanilla, this White Chocolate Peppermint Martini is pure holiday cheer in a glass.

Ingredients you'll need

Making this festive cocktail is easier than you’d think! Here’s what you’ll need.

• Peppermint vodka: This gives the cocktail its signature holiday flavor.
• Vanilla vodka: Adds a creamy, sweet base to balance the peppermint.
• Crème de cacao: A touch of chocolate with a hint of vanilla. I like Tempus Fugit Crème de Cacao A La Vanille for this.
• Cream: I use half and half for a smooth texture, but you can substitute whole milk or heavy cream if you prefer a lighter or richer cocktail.
• Ice cubes: Essential for chilling and blending everything into a perfectly creamy drink.
• Crushed peppermint: For that festive rim and an extra pop of peppermint flavor. Crush red and white peppermint candies or candy canes in a plastic bag with a rolling pin.
• Honey: Helps the crushed peppermint stick to the rim of your glass for a picture-perfect presentation.

Bar tools

The right tools make it easier! Here’s what you’ll need to mix it up perfectly:

• Cocktail shaker: A stainless steel shaker with a built-in strainer works best for easy mixing and pouring.
• Measuring glass or jigger: Both work for precise measurements. I prefer a measuring glass with markings from half an ounce to four ounces.
• Martini glasses: Chilled martini or coupe glasses work for this.

How to make it

Step 1: Prep the glass

For a festive touch, rim the glasses with crushed peppermint: dip the rim in honey, then press into a plate of peppermint pieces. Want to go all out? Drizzle chocolate syrup inside of the glass for a little extra flair.

Step 2: Mix the drink

In a cocktail shaker, combine peppermint vodka, vanilla vodka, crème de cacao, and cream. Add ice cubes and shake until everything is icy cold and perfectly blended.

Step 3: Serve it up

Pour your chilled cocktail into the prepared glass. For a finishing touch, add a candy cane stirrer. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy cane. Or make it snow with shaved white chocolate. It’s like a holiday dessert and a drink in one.

Variations to Try

Switch things up with these fun variations:

• Straight-up peppermint version: Leave out the crème de cacao for a drink that’s pure peppermint.
• Chocolate swap: Replace the crème de cacao with a richer chocolate liqueur like dark chocolate Dorda or Baileys Chocolate for an even more decadent chocolate mint cocktail.

No matter which version you choose, the white chocolate peppermint martini is guaranteed to add a little extra sparkle to your holiday celebrations. Cheers!