Tito’s Peppermint Martini Cocktail Recipe

When the holidays roll around, I like mixing up something simple that still feels a little special. A peppermint martini totally does the trick—especially when it’s made with Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

This cocktail blends smooth vodka and cool peppermint for a drink that’s crisp, festive, and honestly, just really easy to enjoy.

I wanted a recipe that doesn’t take much effort but still feels like a treat. The balance of clean vodka and refreshing mint makes this martini stand out without being too much.

It’s the kind of drink that works for a quiet night at home or a small holiday gathering. Sometimes you just want something that feels a bit celebratory without a lot of fuss.

As you go through the recipe, you’ll see how easy it is to shake up this cocktail with just a few ingredients and basic steps. I’ll also share what flavors you can expect in each sip—so you know exactly what makes this drink worth mixing.

Tito’s Peppermint Martini Cocktail Recipe

I like to keep this drink simple but festive. The right tools, fresh ingredients, and clear steps make it easy to prep a martini that looks polished and tastes refreshing.

Equipment

I always start by setting out the tools I need before mixing. It just keeps things smooth and avoids that frantic “where’s my strainer?” feeling once I get going.

• Cocktail shaker – I use a metal shaker to chill and blend everything evenly.
• Strainer – This helps me pour without ice chips sneaking into the glass.
• Jigger or measuring tool – I measure carefully so the flavors actually balance.
• Martini glass – I chill mine in the freezer for a few minutes so the drink stays cold.
• Bar spoon – I grab it for stirring or layering if needed.
• Small plate – Handy for prepping a crushed candy cane rim.

Having these items ready makes the process faster and the martini looks neat when served. Trust me, it’s worth the extra minute.

Ingredients

I keep the ingredient list short, but every one adds something to the peppermint flavor. Using fresh, good-quality stuff just makes the drink taste cleaner—there’s no way around it.

• 2 oz Tito’s Handmade Vodka
• 1 oz white crème de cacao
• 0.5 oz peppermint schnapps
• 0.5 oz simple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• Ice cubes for shaking
• Crushed candy cane for the rim
• Whipped cream (optional garnish)
• Mini candy cane or peppermint stick for garnish

I like adjusting the sweetness by skipping the syrup if the candy cane rim already adds enough sugar. Sometimes it’s just better that way.

Instructions

I follow these steps in order so the drink comes out consistent every time. It’s not rocket science, but a little order helps.

• Chill the martini glass in the freezer for 5 minutes.
• Wet the rim with simple syrup, then dip it into crushed candy cane.
• Fill the shaker with ice.
• Add Tito’s vodka, crème de cacao, peppermint schnapps, and simple syrup if you’re using it.
• Shake well for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels frosty.
• Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
• Top with whipped cream if you want.
• Garnish with a mini candy cane or peppermint stick.

The shaking step is actually pretty important. That’s what makes the martini super smooth and cold.

Notes

I like to serve this drink right after shaking so it stays chilled. If I prep the glass ahead of time, the rim holds up better and doesn’t get sticky.

The peppermint schnapps can be strong, so sometimes I just use a little less if I want a softer flavor. Using Tito’s vodka gives the drink a clean base that doesn’t overpower the peppermint.

For a lighter version, I skip the whipped cream and just use the candy cane garnish. Keeps the martini crisp and not overly sweet, which I kind of prefer.

Tasting Notes

When I take that first sip, the crisp bite of peppermint hits me right away. It’s cool and refreshing, kind of like sucking on a mint candy—but not as sweet.

The vodka gives the drink a smooth base, which I really appreciate. It’s not too heavy, just enough to balance out the sharpness of the peppermint so things don’t get out of hand.

There’s a little touch of sweetness in there too. Honestly, it softens the edges and makes the martini feel a bit more inviting.

The aroma is worth mentioning. As soon as I bring the glass up, I catch a whiff of fresh mint, and that kind of gets me ready for the brightness that follows.

The finish? It’s clean, with a gentle peppermint note that lingers just enough. It doesn’t coat my mouth or anything, but leaves this cool trace that makes me want to go back for another sip.