Peppermint White Russian

Festive: The festive peppermint flavor and candy cane rim are perfect for the holiday season.

Versatile: It can be enjoyed as an aperitif, after-dinner drink, or even as a dessert cocktail. It’s the perfect nightcap to end the evening with. Plus, a Peppermint White Russian works great for holiday or Christmas parties too!

Easy: All you need is a few simple ingredients and a few minutes to make the drink.

A traditional White Russian is a classic cocktail made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream. It is typically served in a rocks or old fashioned glass with ice and often garnished with coffee beans or chocolate shavings.

The flavorful drink is thought to have originated in the 1960s. It’s often associated with the character of the Dude from the film The Big Lebowski.

The taste of a White Russian provides a rich and slightly sweet coffee flavor, while the heavy cream adds a creamy texture. Some people describe the taste as being similar to an iced coffee with a kick, or to a chocolate milkshake with a coffee twist.

Melted white chocolate chips – This is used for the rim of the glass. You can also use chocolate syrup if you prefer. 

Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies – I crushed mine by adding them to a plastic bag and using a rolling pin to smash them into bits. 

Peppermint vodka – There are many different brands of peppermint vodka available, but some of the most popular include Smirnoff Peppermint Twist and Veil Peppermint Vodka. I used Veil when I made the drink. 

Kahlúa coffee liqueur – Kahlúa is the most well known coffee liqueur, but you can also use brands like Tia Maria or Mr. Black. 

Heavy cream – I prefer heavy whipping cream for an ultra-creamy mouthfeel, but you can use whatever dairy product you have on hand. If you want a dairy-free option, I would recommend coconut or oat milk as they are the most creamy non-dairy options. 

Whipped cream – This is optional, but it really makes the festive drink a little more special.

Full ingredients and measurements are found in the recipe card. 

Step 3: Add ice cubes and top with cream.

Step 4: Give it a quick stir and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream. 

If you’re making Peppermint White Russians for a holiday party, try to have the glasses rimmed and ready to go for when your guests arrive. 

For extra peppermint flavor, try using a peppermint-flavored coffee liqueur. Kahlúa makes a peppermint mocha version that would be perfect for a Peppermint White Russian.

For a lighter drink, use half and half or whole milk. Or, coconut or oat milk for a non-dairy White Russian. 

For a sweeter drink, add a bit of simple syrup.