Peppermint Bark Martini Recipe

The Peppermint Bark Martini is my number one holiday cocktail. This is the drink I reach for whenever I am in the mood for something Christmasy-in-a-glass. The fact that this Peppermint Bark Martini is so incredibly simple to make but looks so fancy that all your friends think you’re some kind of cocktail genius is probably what I love most about it.

I discovered this recipe last winter when I was craving something minty and chocolatey after dinner. Now it’s my signature drink for holiday parties, and trust me, your guests will be asking for the recipe all night long.

What is Peppermint Bark Martini?

The Peppermint Bark Martini brazenly embraces being a liquid dessert in the most divine manner conceivable. The best peppermint bark candy flavors – that rich chocolate-cool mint-creamy sweetness combination – become a smooth, measured cocktail form of their potential.

What makes this drink is the chocolate liqueur and peppermint schnapps, with vodka for that characteristic martini kick. The crushed peppermint candy rim gives it that extra something – fun crunch and puts celebration into every sip.

Ingredients

For the Martini:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz chocolate liqueur (like Godiva or Crème de Cacao)
• 1 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1 oz heavy cream
• Ice cubes

For the Garnish:

• Chocolate syrup
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Mini chocolate shavings

Instructions

1. For starters, prep your glass: pour some chocolate syrup into the inside of a chilled martini glass and then dunk the rim in crushed peppermint candy. Set aside.
2. Fill your cocktail shaker with ice. Don’t skimp on the cubes-you want them super cold.
3. Vodka with a little bit of chocolate liqueur along with peppermint schnapps and cream must first be combined as liquids before adding heavy cream into the shaker.
4. Then you shake it for somewhere from fifteen to twenty seconds to be sure mixing has been pretty thorough and chilling has been super-cold.
5. Strain it into the prepared glass using the cocktail strainer to keep out the ice.
6. Add a little dollop of whipped cream on top if you’re feeling extra, and sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top.

Storage Tips

The thing about martinis is that they really shine when served fresh. However, if you’re having a party, you can combine the liquid ingredients ahead of time, popping them in the fridge for up to 4 hours. Roll with a little shake again with some ice before serving.

The crushed peppermint candies will stay good in an airtight container for weeks, so you can prep those way in advance.

Serving Suggestions

This Peppermint Bark Martini is perfect for:

• Holiday dinner parties
• Christmas Eve celebrations
• Girls’ night in during winter
• After-dinner drinks when you want something special

I love serving these with some actual peppermint bark or chocolate truffles. Those flavors are just a match made in heaven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without heavy cream? 

Half-and-half may be used for adding cream, or some would even use milk; it just will not give as rich a taste. Some would use some vanilla ice cream to make an even more indulgent version.

What if I can’t find peppermint schnapps? 

There is no problem if crème de menthe is substituted for it (just use a bit less, as it’s stronger), or even just a drop or two of peppermint extract can be put in.

Is this drink very sweet? 

Very sweet and therefore very lovable. If you do not like sweet cocktails, cut down the chocolate liqueur by half an ounce.

Can I make a big batch for parties? 

Actually, yes! Just multiply the entire lot of ingredients for however many servings are desired, mix everything in a pitcher except for the cream, and add the cream to the individual glasses when serving.

Ready to Sip Some Holiday Magic?

That Peppermint Bark Martini simply puts everyone in that festive mood. If you were with a group of friends laughing away or simply pampering yourself after a long day’s work, this cocktail brings that holiday warmth into your glass.

Best of all, make one batch, and you will remember the recipe because it is that simple. So grab your shaker, crush some peppermint candies, and prepare to dish out some high holiday spirit! Trust me; this will be your next winter tradition!