Cocktail Recipes

Peppermint White Russian

Millie Pham

If you love the creamy, boozy vibes of a White Russian but want to add a little holiday cheer, the Peppermint White Russian is the drink for you. It’s smooth, minty, and feels like a festive dessert in a glass.

Perfect for holiday parties, cozy nights by the fire, or honestly, whenever you’re craving something sweet and indulgent.

Let’s make one!

What You’ll Need:

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
  • 1 oz heavy cream or milk
  • 1/2 oz peppermint schnapps (or 1-2 drops peppermint extract)
  • Crushed peppermint or candy cane (optional, for garnish)
  • Ice cubes

Pro Tips:

  1. To rim the glass with crushed peppermint, dip the rim in a little cream or water, then press it into the crushed candy.
  2. If you don’t have peppermint schnapps, a small drop of peppermint extract works too—just don’t overdo it!
  3. Use whole milk or coconut milk for a lighter option if heavy cream feels too rich.

Tools You’ll Need:

  • Rocks glass
  • Bar spoon (optional, for stirring)

Substitutions & Variations:

  • No peppermint schnapps? Add a drop of peppermint extract or use crushed candy canes for the minty flavor.
  • Dairy-free? Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a creamy alternative.
  • Want it extra festive? Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a peppermint mocha vibe!

How to Make a Peppermint White Russian:

1. Rim the Glass (Optional)

If you’re rimming the glass, dip the rim into cream or water, then press it into crushed peppermint or candy canes.

A rocks glass being rimmed with crushed candy canes, set on a white marble counter with candy canes and cream nearby.

3. Fill the Glass with Ice then add Vodka, Coffee Liqueur, and Peppermint Schnapps

Pour 2 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, and 1/2 oz peppermint schnapps (or a drop of peppermint extract) over the ice.

A rocks glass filled with ice as vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps are poured in, with bottles and candy canes nearby on a white marble counter.

4. Top with Cream

Slowly pour 1 oz of cream over the top, letting it swirl beautifully into the drink.

A hand pouring heavy cream from a small pitcher into a rocks glass with vodka, coffee liqueur, and peppermint schnapps, creating swirls in the drink.

5. Garnish and Serve

Garnish with a mini candy cane or sprinkle some crushed peppermint on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

A finished Peppermint White Russian in a rocks glass, garnished with a mini candy cane and crushed peppermint, set on a rustic wooden table with candy canes and napkin nearby.

    Leftovers & Storage:

    This drink is best enjoyed fresh, but since it’s so quick to make, you won’t need to store anything!

    Conclusion:

    And there you have it—a festive, minty twist on the classic White Russian! It’s creamy, delicious, and perfect for spreading a little holiday cheer in your glass. Try it out and let me know how it turned out—did you add your own twist? Drop a comment below, I’d love to hear! 🎄🍬☕

    Hi there! I'm Millie Pham, a devoted brewer and tea lover at heart. As the founder of Bean Leaf Cup, my mission is to share my tea and coffee expertise with you all. I firmly believe that creating a fantastic cup of tea or coffee should be easy for everyone. No matter if you're already a coffee or tea expert or just beginning your journey, I'm here to help you navigate the world of brewing. Welcome aboard!