How to Make a Pink Peppermint Martini (Festive & Easy!)

Looking for a cocktail that’s festive, flirty, and fun? Meet the Pink Peppermint Martini, your new go-to for holiday cheer or cozy nights in.

It’s smooth, creamy, and cool as winter air, with just the right kiss of mint and a splash of vodka to keep things interesting. Think candy cane meets cocktail glass.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want something pretty to sip in your fuzzy socks, this drink brings the sparkle.

Why You’ll Love This Martini

It’s Seriously Pretty

Let’s be honest, looks matter when it comes to cocktails. And this one is a total showstopper.

The soft pink hue, frosty rim, and candy cane garnish make it the star of any Instagram story or holiday spread.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

No fancy mixology skills required. You only need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, like vodka, peppermint schnapps, crème de cacao, cream, and a splash of grenadine or cranberry juice.

Toss them in a shaker with ice, give it a good shake, and boom: you’re holding a peppermint dream in a glass.

Perfect for Any Celebration

Sure, it screams “holiday cocktail,” but don’t box it in. This drink fits right in at a Christmas party, Valentine’s Day dinner, or even a winter movie night with friends.

It’s got that magical mix of playful and elegant, making it feel special without trying too hard.

Tastes Like Dessert With a Kick

If peppermint bark and a boozy milkshake had a baby, this would be it. It’s smooth and creamy with just the right amount of mint.

The schnapps adds that cooling peppermint pop, while the chocolate notes from the crème de cacao round it out. It’s sweet, refreshing, and just strong enough to make you feel fancy.

Ingredient	Est. Cost (Per Serving)
Vodka	$0.90
Peppermint Schnapps	$0.60
Crème de Cacao	$0.50
Cream	$0.20
Garnish (optional)	$0.30
Total	~$2.50 per drink

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Vodka – plain or vanilla-flavored
• Peppermint schnapps – for that signature minty bite
• White crème de cacao – adds creamy chocolate notes
• Half and half or cream – to give it that smooth, luscious texture
• Grenadine or a dash of cranberry juice – for the pink hue
• Ice – for shaking
• Optional garnish: Crushed candy canes, peppermint stick, whipped cream, chocolate shavings

Equipment Checklist

• Cocktail shaker
  Essential for mixing everything together and chilling the drink quickly. No shaker? A mason jar with a tight lid works in a pinch.
• Jigger or shot glass
  Helps measure your liquor accurately so you get the perfect balance of flavor—not too boozy, not too bland.
• Martini glass (chilled if possible)
  The classic shape adds elegance, and chilling it keeps your drink cold longer without watering it down.
• Small plate for crushed candy cane rim
  Used to coat the glass rim with crushed peppermint for that extra festive touch (and a sweet minty crunch).

How to Make a Pink Peppermint Martini

1. Rim Your Glass

Start by giving your martini glass a fun, festive touch.

Dip the rim in a little simple syrup or water, then roll it through crushed candy canes. It’s optional, but it makes the drink look like it walked straight out of a holiday movie.

2. Add Ice to Your Shaker

Fill your cocktail shaker with plenty of ice. This is what chills the drink quickly and gives it that smooth, frosty finish. No shortcuts here because ice is your best friend.

3. Pour In Your Ingredients

Add the vodka, peppermint schnapps, crème de cacao, cream, and a splash of grenadine (or cranberry juice).

Each ingredient plays a role: the vodka adds the kick, the schnapps brings the mint, the crème de cacao adds chocolate notes, and the cream ties it all together.

The grenadine is just for that soft pink glow.

4. Shake Until Cold

Give the shaker a strong, confident shake. You want the mixture ice-cold and slightly frothy. Think of it as giving the drink a quick wake‑up call.

5. Strain Into the Glass

Pop off the lid and strain the martini into your prepared glass. It should flow in looking silky, pink, and downright dreamy.

6. Add a Festive Garnish

Finish with a mini candy cane, chocolate shavings, or even a swirl of whipped cream if you’re feeling extra. Little touches make this drink feel special, and honestly, they’re half the fun.

Optional Twists & Variations

Make It Dairy-Free

Lactose doesn’t have to stand between you and this peppermint dream. Swap the cream for coconut cream or oat milk as both add smoothness without the dairy.

Coconut gives it a subtle tropical vibe, while oat milk keeps things neutral and creamy. Just be sure to shake well; non-dairy options can separate if not mixed thoroughly.

Turn It Into a Dessert Martini

Want to take this over the top? Go full dessert mode.

Add a dollop of whipped cream on top, drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass, or even rim the glass with crushed cookies or chocolate shavings.

Suddenly, it’s not just a cocktail, but it’s the final course.

Add More Chocolate

If you’re a chocoholic, turn up the richness. Replace the white crème de cacao with a chocolate liqueur like Godiva or Mozart.

It’ll give the drink a deeper flavor and a slightly darker color. Perfect for those who like their peppermint with a side of cocoa indulgence.

Make It Stronger

Prefer a bolder kick? Just cut back on the cream and pour a little more vodka. You’ll get less of the creamy texture but more of that warming buzz.

This version’s best served when the party’s just getting started, or when you really need to unwind after wrapping gifts.

When to Serve This Cocktail

Holiday Parties

This drink was practically made for Christmas and New Year’s. It’s festive, eye-catching, and tastes like a peppermint candy in cocktail form.

Whether you’re hosting a big bash or a cozy gathering, it adds sparkle to any holiday spread. Plus, that candy cane rim? Instant conversation starter.

Winter Wedding Receptions

Planning a cold-weather wedding? This cocktail brings a playful, romantic vibe to the bar menu.

The pink hue fits right into blush or red-toned themes, and the mint-chocolate flavor feels elegant without being stuffy. Serve it during cocktail hour or as a signature drink—guests will remember it.

Romantic Evenings or Date Nights

Want something a little sweet, a little flirty, and a lot fun? This martini is perfect for date night. Light a candle, cue up a playlist, and serve it with dessert.

Themed Brunches or Girls’ Night

Throwing a winter brunch or pajama party with your besties? Forget mimosas for a sec. This drink adds a fun, seasonal flair that pairs well with everything from pancakes to peppermint bark.

It’s sweet, pink, and guaranteed to make your guests smile (and maybe ask for seconds).

Tips for the Best Results

Shake Like You Mean It

Don’t just give it a polite swirl—shake that cocktail shaker like you’re waking it up after a long nap.

A good, vigorous shake does two things: chills the drink fast and creates a frothy, smooth texture. It’s the difference between “meh” and “wow.”

Chill the Glass First

Pop your martini glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes before serving. Why? A cold glass keeps your drink colder, longer.

Plus, it helps prevent the ice from melting too fast and watering down the flavor. It’s a small step with big payoff.

Garnish Matters

That candy cane on the rim? It’s not just for looks. The crushed peppermint adds a little crunch and a lot of charm. It also balances the sweetness of the drink with a burst of cool mint.

Skipping the garnish is like skipping sprinkles on a cupcake—it still works, but it’s not nearly as fun.

Taste as You Go

Everyone’s peppermint preference is different. Want a bigger minty bite? Add a bit more schnapps. Prefer it smooth and mellow? Cut back slightly.

Don’t be afraid to tweak until it hits your sweet spot. Cocktails are personal, so make it yours.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This martini is best when it’s fresh, cold, and shaken to perfection, but if you’re prepping for a party or just want to save time, you can absolutely make part of it ahead.

Simply combine the vodka, peppermint schnapps, and crème de cacao in a sealed jar or bottle and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

This pre-mix holds its flavor and makes it easy to serve multiple drinks fast. When you’re ready to pour, give the mix a good shake with ice and the cream.

That last-minute shake is key because it chills the drink, adds froth, and ensures the cream doesn’t separate or dull the flavor.

Avoid adding dairy to the batch ahead of time—it won’t keep well and may curdle or lose that silky texture.

A little prep goes a long way here, and your guests will think you whipped it up on the spot.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint extract instead of schnapps?

Not recommended, it’s too strong and lacks sweetness.

Is this drink sweet or strong?

It’s a sweet martini with a balanced minty bite.

Can I make a big batch for a party?

Yes! Multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher (add cream and ice when serving).

What’s a good substitute for crème de cacao?

You can try chocolate liqueur, but it’ll be darker in color.