Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ounce Vanilla Vodka
- 1 ounce Peppermint Schnapps
- 0.5 ounce White Chocolate Liqueur or Irish Cream Liqueur
- 0.5 ounce Heavy Cream or Half & Half
- 0.5 ounce Simple Syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Crushed Candy Canes
- 1 small dish Simple Syrup or Water (for rimming)
- 2–3 drops Red Food Coloring (optional, for festive color)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the shot glass rim by pouring a small amount of simple syrup or water onto a shallow plate. Dip the rim of each shot glass into the liquid, then immediately press the wet rim into the dish of crushed candy canes until coated. Set the glasses aside.
- Step 2: Combine the liquid ingredients—Vanilla Vodka, Peppermint Schnapps, White Chocolate Liqueur (or Irish Cream), Heavy Cream, and Simple Syrup—into a cocktail shaker. Add 2-3 drops of red food coloring if a pink/red color is desired.
- Step 3: Fill the cocktail shaker completely with ice. Secure the lid tightly and shake the mixture vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds, or until the shaker is thoroughly frosted on the outside. This chills the ingredients sufficiently.
- Step 4: Place a fine-mesh strainer over the opening of the shaker. Carefully strain the chilled liquid mixture evenly into the prepared, candy-cane-rimmed shot glasses, filling them just below the rim.
- Step 5: Serve the Peppermint Christmas Shots immediately while they are icy cold for the best holiday flavor and texture.
Notes
- For optimal texture and food safety, do not store the finished shots; if prepping ahead, combine only the spirits and liqueurs (omitting the cream) and keep the base refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- Serve immediately after straining, ensuring the candy cane rim is crunchy and the liquid is icy cold; a festive touch is a small dollop of whipped cream dusted with finely crushed mints.
- Chef’s Tip: Taste the mixture before adding the optional simple syrup; if using White Chocolate Liqueur or a sweeter Irish Cream, you likely won't need the extra sugar.
- To achieve maximum chill and a creamy emulsion, ensure you shake the mixture vigorously until the cocktail shaker is completely frosted on the outside (about 20 seconds).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American