There's a certain magic in the air when the holidays roll around, and what better way to embrace the festive spirit than with a candy cane martini? This recipe is the result of many merry experiments, each one adding a little more cheer to the concoction. I recall the first time I mixed this drink, I was heavy-handed with the peppermint, but I've since learned that a delicate touch is key. The crisp peppermint, paired with the smoothness of vanilla vodka, creates a winter wonderland in a glass, complete with a candy cane garnish that's as charming as it is delicious.
I first made this candy cane martini recipe years ago, as a challenge to capture the essence of the holidays in a cocktail. Initially, I used simple peppermint schnapps, but it lacked depth. It wasn't until I introduced white crème de cacao that I found the balance I was seeking. The blend of chocolate and mint flavors, reminiscent of classic holiday treats, was a revelation. This recipe has been refined over countless holiday gatherings, and it's become a beloved tradition to toast with this delightful martini as the snow falls gently outside.
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Ingredients
![The ingredients for the drink are arranged neatly](https://blendofbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/The-ingredients-for-the-drink-are-arranged-neatly.webp)
- Vanilla vodka — 1 ½ oz
- White crème de cacao — 1 oz
- Peppermint schnapps — ½ oz
- Peppermint extract — just a drop (trust me, a little goes a long way)
- Half-and-half — 2 oz
- Simple syrup — for rimming the glass
- Crushed candy canes — for garnish
- Whole candy cane — for garnish
- Ice cubes — for shaking
Instructions
![The midway point of making the drink, with various ingredients visible](https://blendofbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/The-midway-point-of-making-the-drink-with-various-ingredients-visible.webp)
- Begin by preparing your martini glass. Pour a small amount of simple syrup onto a shallow plate. On a separate plate, spread the crushed candy canes. Dip the rim of the glass first into the simple syrup, then into the crushed candy canes, creating a festive, candy-coated edge. I learned the hard way that using water for rimming causes the candy to dissolve too quickly, so simple syrup is definitely the way to go.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. The ice is not just a chilling agent; it's a crucial component that, when shaken, dilutes the drink ever so slightly, mellowing the flavors and creating a harmonious blend.
- Pour the vanilla vodka, white crème de cacao, peppermint schnapps, and half-and-half into the shaker. Then, with a steady hand, add just a drop of peppermint extract. In my early trials, I was a bit overzealous with the extract, which can overpower the drink, but I've since learned that moderation is key.
- Secure the lid on the shaker and give it a vigorous shake. You'll want to shake it until the outside of the shaker feels cold to the touch, which should take about 15-20 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also ensures that the half-and-half is fully incorporated, giving the martini its signature creamy texture.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass. The straining process is essential to catch any unwanted ice chips that might detract from the smoothness of your cocktail.
- Garnish with a whole candy cane hooked onto the side of the glass. It's not just decorative; as the candy cane sits in the drink, it imparts a subtle peppermint flavor that grows with each sip.
Substitutions
- Vanilla vodka — If you find yourself without vanilla vodka, you can use regular vodka and a splash of vanilla extract. I've done this in a pinch, and it works beautifully.
- Half-and-half — For a lighter version, you can substitute the half-and-half with whole milk or even a milk alternative like almond milk. The drink will be less creamy but still delicious.
Variations
- Chocolate lovers — For an extra chocolatey twist, add a drizzle of chocolate syrup to the inside of the glass before pouring in the martini. It's a decadent addition that chocolate aficionados will appreciate.
- Peppermint patty martini — Add a splash of dark crème de cacao for a deeper chocolate flavor that pairs wonderfully with the peppermint.
![Candy cane martini, ready to serve](https://blendofbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Candy-cane-martini-ready-to-serve.webp)
Dietary Restrictions
- Dairy-free — Use a dairy-free milk alternative and a vegan whipped cream for garnish to make this cocktail dairy-free.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Martini glass
- Shallow plates (for rimming)
- Strainer
- Measuring spoons
Storage
- As with most martinis, the candy cane martini is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you've prepared a large batch, you can store the mixture without ice in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Just give it a good shake with ice before serving to ensure it's perfectly chilled and mixed.
Pro Tips
- Chill your glass — Before preparing the drink, place your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes. A chilled glass will keep your martini colder for longer, enhancing the sipping experience.
- Balance the flavors — The key to the perfect candy cane martini is balance. Don't let the peppermint overpower the other flavors. Start with less and add more to taste.
- Quality ingredients — Use the best quality vodka and schnapps you can find. The cleaner the spirits, the smoother and more enjoyable your martini will be.
![Candy cane martini, ready to serve](https://blendofbites.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Candy-cane-martini-ready-to-serve-360x360.webp)
Festive Candy Cane Martini Recipe for Christmas
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Martini glass
- Shallow plates (for rimming)
- Strainer
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz Vanilla vodka
- 1 oz White crème de cacao
- ½ oz Peppermint schnapps
- Peppermint extract just a drop
- 2 oz Half-and-half
- Simple syrup for rimming the glass
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
- Whole candy cane for garnish
- Ice cubes for shaking
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your martini glass. Pour a small amount of simple syrup onto a shallow plate. On a separate plate, spread the crushed candy canes. Dip the rim of the glass first into the simple syrup, then into the crushed candy canes, creating a festive, candy-coated edge. I learned the hard way that using water for rimming causes the candy to dissolve too quickly, so simple syrup is definitely the way to go.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. The ice is not just a chilling agent; it's a crucial component that, when shaken, dilutes the drink ever so slightly, mellowing the flavors and creating a harmonious blend.
- Pour the vanilla vodka, white crème de cacao, peppermint schnapps, and half-and-half into the shaker. Then, with a steady hand, add just a drop of peppermint extract. In my early trials, I was a bit overzealous with the extract, which can overpower the drink, but I've since learned that moderation is key.
- Secure the lid on the shaker and give it a vigorous shake. You'll want to shake it until the outside of the shaker feels cold to the touch, which should take about 15-20 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also ensures that the half-and-half is fully incorporated, giving the martini its signature creamy texture.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass. The straining process is essential to catch any unwanted ice chips that might detract from the smoothness of your cocktail.
- Garnish with a whole candy cane hooked onto the side of the glass. It's not just decorative; as the candy cane sits in the drink, it imparts a subtle peppermint flavor that grows with each sip.
Notes
- Chill your glass — Before preparing the drink, place your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes. A chilled glass will keep your martini colder for longer, enhancing the sipping experience.
- Balance the flavors — The key to the perfect Candy Cane Martini is balance. Don't let the peppermint overpower the other flavors. Start with less and add more to taste.
- Quality ingredients — Use the best quality vodka and schnapps you can find. The cleaner the spirits, the smoother and more enjoyable your martini will be.
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