This Chocolate Peppermint Martini is a fun drink that’s sure to please! With creamy chocolate liqueur and a hint of peppermint, it’s like dessert in a glass.
It’s perfect for holiday parties or a cozy evening. I love adding a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch—so delicious! 🎄🍸
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A standard choice for martinis, use a good quality vodka for a smoother drink. If you prefer a different spirit, try using vanilla vodka for added flavor.
Chocolate Liqueur: I love Godiva for its rich taste, but any chocolate liqueur can work. You could even substitute with chocolate syrup if that’s what you have on hand.
Peppermint Schnapps: This adds a lovely minty kick. If you want a milder flavor, you could cut down the amount or use crème de menthe instead.
Heavy Cream: I usually stick with heavy cream for a silky texture, but half-and-half is a great lighter option. For a dairy-free choice, use coconut cream or almond milk.
Candy Canes: Not a fan? You can skip the candy cane garnish or replace it with some chocolate shavings for a different look.
How Do You Get the Perfect Rim for Your Martini?
Rimming your glass adds an extra touch to this cocktail. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start by drizzling chocolate syrup around the rim of the glass. Make it as thick or thin as you like for more or less sweetness.
- Next, gently dip the rim into a plate of crushed candy canes. Rotate the glass to ensure an even coating.
- Let it set for a minute before pouring in your drink. This way, the garnish sticks better and contributes to the flavor as you sip.
Chocolate Peppermint Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur (e.g., Godiva or creme de cacao)
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
- Crushed candy canes (for garnish)
- Chocolate syrup (for rimming the glass)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 5 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, so you can whip it up right before your holiday gatherings or cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by getting your martini glass ready. Drizzle some chocolate syrup along the rim of the glass, making a fun design. This not only looks good but adds extra sweetness!
2. Coat the Rim:
Next, dip the rim of the glass into a plate of crushed candy canes. Roll it carefully to make sure the whole edge gets coated. This will give your drink a festive touch and a nice crunch!
3. Mix the Ingredients:
Now, take a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice cubes. Add the vodka, chocolate liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Put the lid on tightly and give it a vigorous shake for about 15-20 seconds until it’s icy cold.
4. Strain and Serve:
Strain the drink into your prepared martini glass, ensuring all those yummy flavors come through. You want to fill it just enough to avoid spilling on the beautiful rim!
5. Add the Final Touch:
For the finishing touch, sprinkle some crushed candy canes over the top of your drink. This not only looks pretty but reinforces that peppermint flavor!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Chocolate Peppermint Martini immediately and enjoy this sweet holiday treat!
Can I Use Another Type of Liqueur?
Absolutely! If you don’t have chocolate liqueur, you can substitute it with chocolate syrup for a sweeter taste, or use another creamy liqueur like Baileys for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Make This Cocktail Without Alcohol?
You can easily create a non-alcoholic version by mixing chocolate milk with peppermint extract and using whipped cream or dairy-free alternatives. Just adjust the peppermint to your taste!
Can I Prepare This Drink in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can mix the vodka, chocolate liqueur, and peppermint schnapps ahead of time and keep it in the fridge, then shake with cream and ice right before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ingredients?
Store any leftover chocolate liqueur and peppermint schnapps in a cool, dark place, ideally in their original bottles to maintain freshness. Heavy cream should be refrigerated and used within its expiration date.