Peppermint White Russian Punch Cocktail Recipe

I’m always on the hunt for ways to jazz up classic cocktails, especially when the holidays roll around. The Peppermint White Russian Punch is honestly one of those twists that never lets me down.

You get the creamy, cozy vibe of a White Russian with a blast of peppermint that just feels right for December. It’s easy enough for anyone to whip up, and it somehow manages to surprise people every time.

With just a handful of ingredients and barely any fuss, I can pull together a punch that feels both fun and a little bit fancy. The peppermint is refreshing, and the coffee liqueur makes each sip feel like something you want to linger over.

If you’re hoping to impress your friends or just want a drink that feels a little more festive, this Peppermint White Russian Punch is a solid bet.

Peppermint White Russian Punch Cocktail Recipe

I keep coming back to this Peppermint White Russian Punch for winter get-togethers and parties. It’s familiar, but the peppermint twist and those holiday toppings make it stand out.

The recipe calls for vodka, Kahlúa, half and half, and a good handful of crushed peppermint candies. It’s a little sweet, a little minty, and definitely cheerful.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker or large pitcher (for mixing everything together)
• Rocks glasses or punch cups
• Measuring jigger (makes it easier to get the right ratios)
• Rolling pin (for smashing up those peppermint candies or candy canes)
• Shallow plates (for rimming the glasses with syrup and candy)
• Spoon or stir stick (for mixing, obviously)
• Ice scoop
• Serving tray (totally optional, but it looks nice)
• Strainer (use it if you don’t want bits of ice or candy in your drink)

Ingredients

• 2 cups vodka (plain works, but peppermint vodka is fun if you can find it)
• 1 cup Kahlúa or any coffee liqueur
• 2 cups half and half or heavy cream (depends how rich you want it)
• 1/2 cup peppermint schnapps or 1 tsp peppermint extract (for that minty punch)
• 1/4 cup simple syrup (adjust if you like it sweeter)
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (for rimming and garnish)
• 1/4 cup corn syrup or white chocolate syrup (helps the candy stick to the rim)
• Chocolate syrup or white chocolate, for drizzling (optional, but I’m not skipping it)
• Crushed ice (to fill the glasses)
• Candy canes or mini candy canes (to make it look festive)
• Extra whipped cream (if you’re feeling fancy)

Instructions

• Crush the peppermint candies with a rolling pin and pour them into a shallow dish.
• Dip the rims of your glasses in white chocolate syrup or corn syrup, then roll them in the crushed candy until they’re coated.
• Fill each glass halfway with crushed ice.
• Mix the vodka, Kahlúa, half and half, peppermint schnapps, and simple syrup in your shaker or pitcher.
• Shake well (or just stir if you’re using a pitcher) until everything’s chilly and mixed up.
• Strain or pour the punch into your prepped glasses over the ice.
• Drizzle chocolate syrup or white chocolate on top if you want.
• Top with whipped cream and pop a candy cane in for garnish.

Notes

If you like things on the sweeter side, just add a little more simple syrup or a splash of white chocolate syrup. Want more mint? Go for peppermint vodka and maybe a touch more extract.

Half and half gives you a nice creamy texture, but heavy cream will make it even richer. Or use whole milk if you want to keep it lighter. Crushed candy canes on the rim aren’t just for looks—they add a little crunch and extra mint with every sip.

Honestly, I usually make a big batch in a pitcher for parties, but shaking up each drink works too if you’re feeling patient. Always serve it cold, over lots of crushed ice. That’s non-negotiable.

You can totally leave out the booze and use coffee syrup plus a bit of mint extract for a mocktail. Whipped cream and a chocolate drizzle are just fun, especially if you’re serving these at a holiday party or just hanging out at home.

Tasting Notes

When I take a sip of the Peppermint White Russian Punch, the first thing that hits me is that cool, minty pop from the peppermint.

It’s refreshing—honestly, not too strong, which I appreciate.

The creamy texture follows right after, making the drink feel smooth and rich, kind of like a classic White Russian.

I pick up the mix of coffee liqueur and vodka, too, which adds this gentle kick that brings to mind a Black Russian.

The peppermint doesn’t really overpower anything; it just sort of blends in with everything else.

Each sip feels like a little holiday treat—perfect for Christmas cocktails, or, heck, any winter get-together.

There’s a bit of sweetness, but it’s not over-the-top or cloying.

That combo of cream and peppermint just feels festive to me.

I really enjoy how the flavors stay balanced; honestly, that’s what makes a holiday cocktail work.

Every glass feels kind of special and inviting.

It stands out from other Christmas cocktails because of that refreshing mint and creamy base.

The colors, the flavors—they just fit right in with the holiday mood.