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Ah, the delightful chill of the winter season—it’s that magical time when homes are filled with laughter, twinkling lights, and a whiff of something delicious bubbling away on the stovetop. One of my cherished discoveries during the holiday festivities has to be Peppermint Christmas Shots. The first time I made them, my little kitchen was aglow with the warm, inviting scent of peppermint. I was experimenting with flavors, and when that first batch came together, it was as if Christmas had danced right into my glass!
With each sip, the crispness of peppermint meets the lusciousness of vanilla and cream, creating a symphony of comforting flavors that whisper “joy” to your taste buds. The vibrant colors of the crushed peppermint candies on top make these shots not only delicious but also a visual treat that can charm even the biggest Grinch. Whether you’re toasting a special moment with family or bringing a bit of cheer to a holiday gathering, these shots are sure to become a treasured go-to in your holiday repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Quick: Whip these up in just 5 minutes—perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute celebrations!
- Crowd-Pleaser: These delightful little shots are always a hit, especially with those who love festive flavors!
- Effortlessly Elegant: The beautiful garnishes and creamy texture give off a fancy vibe without the fuss.
- Versatile: Great for holiday parties, cozy nights in, or as a special treat for friends and family.
- Comfort in a Glass: The creamy and minty flavors create the ultimate cozy feel, perfect for sipping by the fire!
Ingredients
1 oz peppermint schnapps
A key ingredient that brings that iconic holiday flavor! Make sure it’s a good quality brand for the best taste!1 oz vanilla vodka
Adds a lovely smoothness and depth of flavor, balancing out the mint perfectly!1 oz cream or half-and-half
For that rich, luscious mouthfeel; you can also use non-dairy options for a lighter twist!Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
These not only add a festive crunch but also an extra burst of flavor! I love using a rolling pin to crush them right before serving for freshness!
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Shake It Up
In a shaker filled with ice, combine the peppermint schnapps, vanilla vodka, and cream. The sound of the ice clinking against the metal is like music in the kitchen—trust me, you’ll want to shake it well!
2. Chill It Down
Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until it’s nice and cold. Just picture the refreshing scent of peppermint swirling around you; it’s like your own mini winter wonderland!
3. Pour the Magic
Strain the mixture into shot glasses, watching as the creamy concoction gracefully fills each one. You’re almost there!
4. Add the Sweet Touch
Garnish each shot with crushed peppermint candies. The crunch adds a fun texture and a pop of color that will make everyone smile!
5. Serve & Savor
Serve immediately and enjoy slowly—let those flavors dance on your palate while you spread cheer around the room!
Pro Tips for Success
- Chill your glasses: For an extra frosty experience, pop your shot glasses in the freezer for a bit before serving.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the levels of schnapps and vodka if you prefer it sweeter or stronger.
- Fresh peppermint: If you have fresh peppermint leaves on hand, muddle a few in the shaker for an aromatic twist.
- Get kids involved!: Let them crush the candies (safely, of course) and help with garnishing!
Flavor Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint: Swap in chocolate vodka for an indulgent flavor twist.
- Coconut Cream: Use coconut cream instead of regular cream for a tropical, festive flair.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little heat with their sweets!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these delightful shots with warm gingerbread cookies, a cozy hot cocoa bar, or set them next to a festive cheese platter for a fabulous spread. For an extra charming presentation, serve on a wooden board with an arrangement of candy canes and twinkling fairy lights!
Make-Ahead & Storage
While these shots are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the creamy mix without ice in advance. Just store the blend in the fridge and shake with fresh ice before serving. They’re best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover mixture, consider adding it to coffee for a delicious peppermint mocha. You could also drizzle it over vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert!
Freezing
Unfortunately, freezing isn’t ideal for these shots as the cream may split upon thawing and that delightful texture will be lost. So it’s best to enjoy them fresh!
Reheating
No reheating here, my friends! These shots are served icy cold right from the shaker.
FAQs
Can I make these non-alcoholic?
Absolutely! Swap the schnapps and vodka for peppermint extract and soda. Just mix until you find your perfect balance!
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe serves one, but it’s super easy to multiply for a crowd—just mix accordingly.
What’s the best way to crush the peppermint candies?
Put them in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. It’s a fun kitchen activity and adds a layer of excitement to your prep!
Can I add different flavors?
For sure! Try experimenting with other liqueurs—chocolate or coffee liqueurs are especially divine.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for spending a little time in my cozy kitchen today! I hope these Peppermint Christmas Shots bring warmth, joy, and a sprinkle of holiday magic to your gatherings. May your home be filled with laughter, your kitchen with delicious smells, and your hearts with all the wonderful memories that come with celebrating the season. Happy Holidays from my home to yours! Cheers! 🍹✨
Peppermint Christmas Shots
Ingredients
Method
- In a shaker filled with ice, combine the peppermint schnapps, vanilla vodka, and cream.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain the mixture into shot glasses.
- Garnish each shot with crushed peppermint candies.
- Serve immediately and enjoy slowly.