Nothing makes you feel merry and bright quite like a peppermint-spiked cocktail. One (or a few) of these deliciously minty mixed drinks beats out the stress of last-minute shopping, subzero temperatures, and crazy amounts of family. We’ve compiled a list of eight of our favorite peppermint-spiked treats to get you in the spirit these last days before Christmas. But if you’re not sure which to serve on the big day, try making one or two of these creations each night this week to decide which to serve your fam on the big holiday. Whoever said research wasn’t fun clearly hasn’t experimented with peppermint cocktails. Happy experiminting!
Candy Cane Cocktail
A simple classic: vanilla rum, white chocolate liqueur, and peppermint. Sometimes it’s best to just stick with simplicity. Also, it’s white, so you don’t have to worry about staining your grandmother’s new carpet.
Sparkling Peppermint Swirl
Sparkling wine, vodka, grenadine, and peppermint. It’s like a Shirley Temple for adults. But with bubbles. And vodka. Everyone wins.
Peppermint Coffee Toddy
This is for all of you moms and dads out there who’ll be up at the crack of dawn opening Lego sets and Barbies. Not exactly our favorite way to start the day, but hey, caffeine and booze make everything more bearable.
Peppermint Eggnog Cocktail
It’s like all of your holiday favorites have come together in one crafty creation to fill your body with holiday cheer. We’d recommend sticking to just one or two, though — these little numbers are heavy.
White Chocolate Peppermint Martini
Another classic favorite, though with a marshmellowy twist. Drizzle the inside of each glass for a festive touch. For a mintier concoction, eliminate the white chocolate liqueur and replace it with an additional ounce of peppermint schnapps.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
This is about as easy as it gets. Make hot chocolate. Add schnapps. Load with excessive amounts of whipped cream. Drink and be merry.
Grasshopper Cocktail
Chocolate and mint unite in this classic peppermint creation. It’s like boozy thin-mint cookies liquefied into a glass. Plus, the bright green pigment in everyone’s glass will have your home looking like a winter wonderland in no time.
Peppermint White Russian
We’ve saved the most decadent for last. Between heavy cream and vanilla frosting, your stomach might hate you if you consume more than one of these. But hey, it’s Christmas, and what better excuse to load up on excessive boozy calories? Happy drinking!
