I wanted to shake up a classic cocktail with something unexpected, so I threw together cool peppermint and just a hint of chili heat. Honestly, the result kind of blew me away.
This Peppermint Chili White Russian has that creamy sweetness you expect, but with a bold little kick that keeps things interesting. It’s both familiar and just a bit daring.
No need for any fancy bartender skills or weird ingredients. This one comes together fast, and the flavors are clear without being too much.
I’ll walk you through it, step by step, so you can try this twist on a White Russian at home.
What I really enjoy is how the drink shifts with every sip. First, you get the smooth cream and coffee liqueur, but then the peppermint and chili start to sneak in.
It’s a great mix for a cozy night, or just when you want your drink to be something a little out of the ordinary.
Peppermint Chili White Russian Cocktail Recipe
I like this drink because it blends the creamy sweetness of a White Russian with cool peppermint and a subtle chili heat. The vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream keep it classic, but the peppermint gives it a festive, unique vibe.
Equipment
- Rocks glass – I always go for this; it holds ice well and shows off the layers.
- Cocktail shaker – Helps blend the cream with peppermint vodka before pouring.
- Measuring jigger – Honestly, it keeps me from overdoing the vodka or Kahlua.
- Rolling pin – Perfect for smashing up candy canes or peppermint bits.
- Small plate – I use it to spread out the crushed peppermint for rimming.
- Spoon – Good for stirring gently, so the cream doesn’t fully mix in.
- Ice cube tray – Fresh cubes are a must; nobody wants a watered-down drink.
Having the right tools just makes things smoother and, let’s be real, the drink ends up looking way better.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka or peppermint vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlua)
- 1 oz half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 tsp chocolate syrup (optional, if you want it sweeter)
- Crushed peppermint for the rim
- 1 small candy cane for garnish
- Ice cubes for chilling
Sometimes I swap in half-and-half if I want it a bit lighter. Peppermint vodka gives a stronger flavor, but plain vodka is fine if you just rim the glass with peppermint.
Instructions
- Crush some peppermint candy with a rolling pin and spread it out on a plate.
- Dip the rim of your rocks glass in chocolate syrup, then press it into the crushed peppermint.
- Fill the glass halfway with ice cubes.
- Pour in the vodka and coffee liqueur over the ice.
- In a shaker, mix cream (or half-and-half) with peppermint vodka if you’re using that.
- Shake it up lightly, then slowly pour it over the back of a spoon into the glass for that layered look.
- Stir gently if you want the flavors to blend more.
- Add a candy cane for garnish.
The layering makes the drink look pretty sharp, and the creamy top stays separate until you’re ready to stir.
Notes
I’ve noticed the peppermint cuts through the richness of the cream, and if you add a pinch of chili powder or chili chocolate syrup, it gives the drink a subtle kick.
Best to serve it right away, since the peppermint rim can get a little soggy if it sits around. Sometimes I use crushed peppermint bark instead of candy canes—adds a bit more texture.
If I want it lighter, I stick with half-and-half. For a bolder flavor, peppermint vodka all the way.
Equipment
- Measuring jigger
- Cocktail shaker (optional)
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur Kahlúa or similar
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 2 oz half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 pinch chili powder or cayenne, to taste
- crushed peppermint candy for garnish, optional
- mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Fill a rocks glass with ice.
- Add vodka, coffee liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and chili powder.
- Stir well or shake with ice for a frothier result.
- Top with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Garnish with crushed peppermint candy or chocolate shavings, if desired.
Notes
Tasting Notes
So, that first sip? It hit me with this cool peppermint vibe—refreshing, but not in-your-face. The mint kind of played nicely with the smooth cream, almost like they were made for each other.
Then there’s the coffee liqueur. It brought a gentle bitterness, and honestly, I couldn’t help but think of a peppermint mocha. That little bit of depth kept things from getting too sugary.
Right at the end, the chili spice snuck in. It left this gentle warmth on my tongue—unexpected, but honestly, it didn’t bulldoze the other flavors.
I have to say, the vodka just sort of hung out in the background. It gave the drink some backbone without stealing the spotlight from the cream, peppermint, or chili.
Texture-wise, it was rich and silky. The cream really mellowed out the chili’s heat, making each sip feel extra smooth.
- First impression: Cool peppermint
- Middle notes: Coffee and cream
- Finish: Gentle spice with a warm kick
