I really enjoy throwing together simple cocktails that still feel a bit special during the holidays. This Candy Cane Bourbon Fizz is just that—a smooth mix of bourbon, peppermint, and a gentle fizz that comes together quickly and brings a festive vibe.
It’s got that cozy bourbon warmth, but then there’s the cool, sweet candy cane thing happening too. Somehow, it actually balances out.
Whenever I serve this, it seems to add a little cheer without making life complicated. You don’t need anything fancy for it—just a few easy ingredients and some basic bar stuff.
You can mix it up in minutes, honestly. It works whether you’re relaxing by the fire or having friends over for a holiday get-together.
You’ll see what you need, how to throw it together, and get a sense of the flavors.
Candy Cane Bourbon Fizz Cocktail Recipe
I just love how this drink brings together bourbon’s warmth and peppermint’s cool sweetness. Plus, the fizz from soda or ginger beer keeps it light and not too heavy.
Crushed candy canes on top? It’s festive, and, well, it looks cute.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker – helps mix things evenly.
- Measuring jigger – so you don’t overdo it.
- Strainer – keeps ice and candy bits out of your glass.
- Martini glass or rocks glass – totally up to your mood.
- Bar spoon – for a gentle stir if you need it.
- Ice cube tray – fresh ice makes a difference.
- Small plate – for holding crushed peppermint to rim the glass.
- Muddler – handy if you’re crushing candy or using fresh mint.
Honestly, having everything out before you start makes things way easier.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps or peppermint vodka
- 1 oz simple syrup (taste and see if you want more or less)
- 2 oz ginger beer or Sprite for the fizz
- Crushed candy cane or peppermint candies for garnish
- Ice cubes
- Optional: 0.5 oz white chocolate liqueur (like Godiva) for a creamier thing
- Optional: splash of lime juice or cranberry juice for some brightness
- Optional: homemade candy cane vodka (just vodka with candy canes or peppermint extract soaked in)
If you’ve got time, homemade candy cane vodka gives you a real peppermint flavor without too much sweetness.
Instructions
- Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Add bourbon, peppermint schnapps (or vodka), and simple syrup.
- Shake it up for about 10–15 seconds, just until it’s nice and cold.
- Strain into a martini or rocks glass with fresh ice.
- Top with ginger beer or Sprite for that fizz.
- Garnish with crushed candy cane around the rim or just sprinkle on top.
- If you want, add a splash of lime or cranberry juice before the fizz.
- Serve right away, while it’s still bubbly and cold.
I usually rim the glass with crushed peppermint first—it adds flavor and looks pretty festive.
Notes
Want more peppermint? Go for peppermint vodka or add a drop or two of peppermint extract.
If you’re after a creamier holiday drink, mix in some white chocolate liqueur. It’s surprisingly good with peppermint and bourbon.
Homemade candy cane vodka is easy—just soak crushed candy canes in vodka for a day or two, then strain it. You can use it in all sorts of cocktails, not just this one.
Play around with the sweetness—use more or less simple syrup or soda. Sometimes I’ll add cranberry juice for a tart finish, especially if I’m serving it with holiday desserts.
Candy Cane Bourbon Fizz Cocktail
Tasting Notes
Okay, so the first sip of this Candy Cane Bourbon Fizz—I get this gentle, almost playful sweetness from the crushed candy cane. It just kind of melts right in with those warm, oaky bourbon notes.
That fizz? It’s light, almost ticklish, and gives the whole thing a refreshing lift.
The peppermint is definitely there, but it doesn’t smack you in the face. It’s more of a cool little edge, making it feel like an actual holiday cocktail and not just another drink.
I can pick up the way the mint balances out the heavier bourbon flavors. It’s subtle, not showy.
What I really like is how this festive drink manages to feel both warming and crisp at the same time. The carbonation keeps things lively, while the bourbon kind of anchors everything.
Here’s how the main flavors come across for me:
- Sweetness: It’s mild—mostly from the candy cane, maybe a bit from any added sugar
- Mint: Cool, refreshing, just enough peppermint
- Bourbon: Smooth, a little smoky, and definitely warm
- Fizz: Those light bubbles keep it from getting too heavy
The aroma is honestly inviting—there’s a hint of vanilla from the bourbon, and just a whisper of peppermint. Makes me think of other holiday drinks I’ve sipped by the fire, honestly.
I like pouring this festive cocktail into a chilled glass so the bubbles stick around. Tossing in a tiny candy cane as a garnish? It looks cute and doesn’t mess with the flavor much.
