Peppermint White Russian (2024)

Peppermint White Russian is a co*cktail made with peppermint schnapps, Kahlua, vodka, and heavy cream served in a candy cane-rimmed glass. It’s a peppermint drink recipe that is perfect for the holiday season! I also have a classic White Russian you may want to serve and enjoy as well.

Peppermint White Russian

This alcoholic beverage gives a peppermint and festive twist to a White Russian co*cktail. It still contains Kahlua, vodka, and cream. But then has added peppermint schnapps to give it a minty twist. And, don’t forget about the crushed candy cane around the rim of the glass. That will really be a lovely touch if serving at your Christmas or New Year’s Eve parties. For another variation of the classic co*cktail, I also have a Naughty White Russian made with RumChata® that would be a delicious party drink.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Glass Rim: You would not have to garnish the rim of a glass with simple syrup, crushed candy cane, and sugar, but why not? It adds some color to the drink, plus some added peppermint flavor. Save a candy can for garnish, too!

Peppermint Schnapps: The peppermint schnapps gives this White Russian its peppermint flavor. A variety of brands make peppermint schnapps, so use your favorite. If you don’t have any on hand, use white creme de menthe. Or, you could add a drop of peppermint extract to the drink instead.

Kahlua: Kahlua is a coffee-flavored liqueur. If the vodka and peppermint schnapps is plenty of alcohol for you, use a shot of espresso or brewed coffee in place of the Kahlua.

Vodka: Add your favorite brand of vodka.

Heavy Cream: Heavy cream, also known as heavy whipping cream, is at least 30% fat. In place of heavy cream, you could use milk or half-and-half.

What is Peppermint Schnapps?

Peppermint Schnapps is a strong, peppermint-flavored distilled spirit. When looking for it at your local liquor store, keep in mind the variations in the alcohol content, or alcohol by volume (ABV). A bottle of peppermint schnapps can range from 30 proof to 100 proof, or 15-50% ABV. So, add the spirit accordingly when making this drink.

Can I Make a Big Batch of this Drink?

Sure! If serving Peppermint White Russian to a large group, and you want to make a big batch of it, go for it! If mixing all of the ingredients together, including the cream, store it in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours, or until ready to serve over ice.