A White Russian is already a classic, but tossing in Baileys Peppermint? That just gives it this smooth, almost playful holiday twist—honestly feels fresh any time of year, though. I love how the peppermint just kind of melts into the cream and coffee flavors without totally taking over.
Here’s how I make a Baileys Peppermint White Russian at home—super simple steps, nothing fancy, and you don’t need to hunt down weird ingredients.
Making this drink always feels a little special, but it never gets complicated. The combo of vodka, coffee liqueur, and Baileys Peppermint hits that sweet spot between creamy, cool, and just the right amount of sweet.
No need for complicated tools or ingredients, which is a relief. It works for a quick treat or if you’ve got a couple friends over—no stress.
What I really like is how you can switch it up. Serve it over ice for that smooth, classic vibe, or throw on some crushed candy canes if you’re feeling festive. Either way, it looks good, tastes even better, and doesn’t take much effort.
Baileys Peppermint White Russian Cocktail Recipe
I keep coming back to this cocktail because it mixes that creamy Baileys sweetness with a cool peppermint kick. Vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream—all together, it’s simple but there’s something a little extra about it.
Equipment
- Rocks glass – I always grab this because it just feels right for the drink and the ice sits nicely.
- Cocktail shaker – I’ll use this if I want everything mixed up super smooth.
- Jigger – Honestly, I’d probably mess up the amounts without this.
- Bar spoon – Good for stirring gently so the ice doesn’t get all broken up.
- Ice cubes – Gotta have these, otherwise what’s the point?
Having the right glass and tools just makes it taste better, at least to me. The jigger keeps things from getting too strong (or too weak), and the shaker? It’s just fun.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka (sometimes I go with caramel vodka if I’m in the mood for extra sweetness)
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlúa is my usual pick)
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps or peppermint-flavored Baileys
- 1 oz heavy cream or half and half
- Ice cubes
- Optional: a shot of espresso if I want a real coffee punch
- Optional garnish: crushed peppermint candy or a little candy cane
I tend to use heavy cream for that rich, thick texture, but half and half works if I want something lighter. Espresso really wakes it up, and caramel vodka? It’s a game changer if you like things on the sweeter side.
Instructions
- Fill up your rocks glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the vodka, coffee liqueur, and Baileys Irish Cream.
- Add the peppermint schnapps (or peppermint Baileys if you’ve got it).
- Stir gently with your bar spoon—don’t go crazy, just mix it up.
- Slowly pour the cream (or half and half) over the top for that nice layered look.
- If you want, shake everything in a cocktail shaker with ice for a smoother blend.
- Top it off with crushed peppermint candy or a candy cane if you’re feeling festive.
I always pour the cream last. It looks cool when it floats before swirling in. Sometimes, if I’m feeling bold, I’ll throw in a shot of espresso for a stronger kick.
Notes
I stick with a rocks glass—it’s classic and just feels right. If I want a creamier drink, I’ll go with the shaker, but honestly, stirring is usually enough.
Peppermint can get a bit intense, so I’ll dial it up or down depending on who’s drinking. Caramel vodka is a fun swap if you want it sweeter, and espresso adds some real depth.
When I want to lighten things up, I use half and half instead of heavy cream. And for a little holiday flair, rimming the glass with crushed peppermint before pouring the drink looks (and tastes) pretty great.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1 oz Kahlúa
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream Peppermint or original
- 1 oz heavy cream or half-and-half
- Ice cubes
- Crushed peppermint or cocoa powder for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Fill a rocks glass with ice cubes.
- Add vodka, Kahlúa, and Baileys. Stir gently to combine.
- Slowly pour the cream over the top. Stir or leave layered.
- Garnish with crushed peppermint or cocoa powder, if desired.
Notes
Tasting Notes
Right off the bat, this drink just feels smooth and creamy—almost like you’re sipping on a dessert cocktail. The Baileys brings in a sweet base, and then the peppermint? It leaves this cool finish that kind of hangs around on your tongue.
Honestly, it’s got a vibe that reminds me of a holiday treat, just in liquid form. Makes me wonder why I don’t make these more often.
If I stack it up against a Black Russian, this one’s definitely softer, not as sharp. The cream really mellows out the coffee flavor, so you can sip it slowly without feeling overwhelmed.
It’s more relaxed than bold, if that makes sense. Kind of a drink you’d want to linger over.
That mint with the coffee notes—wow, it’s almost like an espresso martini, but it’s lighter and sweeter. I’m always surprised by how none of the flavors totally take over; they just kind of hang out together.
When it’s cocktail hour, I find myself reaching for this one because it feels festive but not too heavy. There’s something about the cream, coffee liqueur, and peppermint that keeps it refreshing, but still rich enough to feel a little special.
- Texture: smooth, creamy, slightly cool
- Flavor balance: sweet cream, coffee richness, peppermint freshness
- Best moment: after dinner or during a cozy cocktail hour
