Candy Cane White Russians are brimming with holiday cheer. A creamy, rich coffee-flavored cocktail is decked out for the holidays with a peppermint vodka and a frosting-peppermint rim. This festive twist on the classic white Russian is just what the season calls for.
What’s in a Candy Cane white Russian cocktail?
The classic white Russian cocktail is made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream. It’s usually served on ice in an old-fashioned glass.
For this pepperming white Russian recipe, we’re substituting regular vodka with peppermint vodka to infuse a little holiday spirit into this drink!
Here’s what goes into this holiday drink recipe:
Peppermint vodka
This is usually available during the holiday season (I used Smirnoff). If you aren’t able to find peppermint vodka, use regular vodka and add ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract per drink.
Coffee liqueur
Choose an option like Kahlúa.
Heavy cream
Don’t skimp on the cream here! It’s what makes this drink extra decadent.
Frosting
Take this Christmas cocktail to the next level by rimming the glasses with crushed candy canes. Frosting is a sweet way to get them to stick! Use a pre-made, vanilla frosting to keep things easy.
Candy canes
Crush up the candy canes and then dip the rims of the frosted glasses in the minty, festive goodness! (PS: I think the mini candy canes are easier to unwrap and crush.)
Peppermint sticks
Add a peppermint stick for a final touch of holiday magic!
Candy Cane White Russian FAQ
What if I can’t find peppermint vodka?
No worries! You can still make this drink. Simply substitute regular vodka and add in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract! Or use equal parts regular vodka and peppermint schnapps.
If you need more recipes to use the rest of your peppermint extract, check out Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies or Peppermint Fudge Cookies!
Can this be made in a pitcher/large batch?
Absolutely. This is the perfect drink for a Christmas gathering! Mix together 1 ½ cups Kahlua, 1 ½ cups peppermint vodka, and 1 cup cream in a pitcher. Serve over ice-filled glasses.
What’s the best vodka for a peppermint white Russian?
I used Smirnoff peppermint vodka, but any peppermint vodka will work!
Other Festive Cocktail Ideas
Candy Cane White Russian
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
Description
Candy Cane White Russians are brimming with holiday cheer. A creamy, rich coffee-flavored cocktail is decked out for the holidays with a peppermint vodka and a frosting-peppermint rim. This festive twist on the classic white Russian is just what the season calls for.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz peppermint vodka
- 2 oz Kahlua (coffee liquor)
- 1–2 oz heavy cream depending on preference
For the glass rim or garnish:
- Vanilla frosting to rim the glass
- Crushed candy canes to rim the glass
- Whole candy canes or candy cane rods for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the glass by dunking the rim of the glass into a plate of frosting, then over to a plate of crushed candy canes to create a frosted-candy cane rim.
- Fill the glass about halfway full of ice. Pour in the peppermint vodka, Kahlua and cream and gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with additional candy canes or candy cane rods and enjoy!
Notes
- The cocktail recipe was doubled for the photos. Use a standard old fashioned glass or smaller.
- Nutritional information for this recipe is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 463
- Sugar: 22.4g
- Fat: 11.2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0.7g
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Hi, I’m KJ!
Here you’ll find simple, delicious recipes for the home cook. I strive to make wholesome meals with easy-to-find ingredients that you feel comfortable making in your own kitchen—but I won’t shy away from a few indulgences! (I see you: butter, bacon, cookies!)
