Introduction

The Peppermint Baileys Martini is a festive and creamy cocktail that perfectly combines the flavors of Irish cream, peppermint, and chocolate. It’s an ideal holiday drink to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy night in with a minty twist.

A clear martini glass filled with a creamy, light beige drink. The glass rim is decorated with crushed white and red peppermint pieces, forming a textured ring. A small red and white striped candy cane is hooked on the right side of the rim. The glass stands on a flat surface with white marbled texture and is placed at the edge of a wooden board. In the background, there are blurred holiday decorations including a gold ornament and a green pine branch with candy canes hanging from it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
1 oz vanilla vodka
1 oz peppermint schnapps
1/2 oz chocolate syrup (plus extra for drizzling and rimming)
Crushed candy canes (for rimming the glass)
Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Mini candy canes (optional, for garnish)
Ice cubes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the glass by pouring some chocolate syrup onto a small plate. Dip the rim of your martini glass into the syrup, then immediately press it into crushed candy canes to coat the edge. Set the glass aside.
Step 2: In a cocktail shaker, combine Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla vodka, peppermint schnapps, and chocolate syrup. Add a handful of ice cubes.
Step 3: Shake the mixture vigorously for about 20 seconds until well chilled and combined.
Step 4: Strain the cocktail into the prepared martini glass.
Step 5: Garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings, and a mini candy cane for a festive touch, if desired.

Tips & Variations

Chill your martini glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes to keep your drink frosty longer.
For a better candy cane rim, use chocolate syrup instead of water to help the candy canes stick and add extra flavor.
Adjust peppermint schnapps to make the mint flavor milder or stronger according to your taste.
Try adding a drizzle of chocolate syrup into the shaker for a sweeter cocktail.
Make a mocktail by swapping Baileys and vodka with a non-alcoholic Irish cream substitute and using peppermint extract instead of schnapps.
Use any Irish cream liqueur or a dairy-free almond Baileys alternative for a different twist.
Add a splash of cold brew or espresso for a peppermint mocha variation.

Storage

Leftover martini mix can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before serving, shake well with fresh ice. You can also rim glasses ahead of time and keep them chilled in the fridge until ready to serve.

How to Serve

A clear martini glass filled with a smooth, creamy off-white drink sits on a white marbled surface with a wooden cutting board slightly visible on the right. The glass rim is decorated with crushed white and red peppermint pieces, giving it a rough texture. A small red and white striped candy cane hangs on the right side of the glass rim. In the blurred dark blue background, a small candy cane hangs on a green pine branch on the left, and a shiny, round gold Christmas ornament rests on the surface below. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

Yes, you can pre-mix the Baileys, vodka, schnapps, and chocolate syrup and keep the mixture chilled in the fridge. Shake with ice just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What can I use if I don’t have peppermint schnapps?

If you don’t have peppermint schnapps, a few drops of peppermint extract work well as a substitute. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of mintiness.