Candy Cane Shots with Peppermint Vodka Recipe

If you’re looking for a festive twist to liven up your holiday party, you’re going to want to stick around. I absolutely love how this Candy Cane Shots with Peppermint Vodka Recipe turns out—it’s fun, easy, and packs that perfect peppermint punch that’ll have everyone asking for more. Trust me, once you try this, it might just become your go-to holiday treat!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Candy Cane Shots with Peppermint Vodka Recipe is in its simplicity. The peppermint disks dissolve slowly into the vodka, infusing it with a sweet, minty flavor that screams holiday cheer. When you shop for your ingredients, make sure to pick up good quality peppermint disks—they make all the difference in flavor.

• Peppermint disks: Choose classic red-and-white peppermint candies for that iconic look and flavor.
• Unflavored vodka: A neutral vodka lets the peppermint shine, so stick to an unflavored brand you enjoy sipping straight.

Variations

I love to mix things up depending on the crowd or the occasion. While the classic Candy Cane Shots with Peppermint Vodka Recipe is perfect as is, there’s plenty of room to get creative and tweak it just how you like.

• Fruit-Flavored Peppermints: I once swapped in green apple peppermint disks to surprise my guests with a fruity twist that still kept the festive vibe.
• Flavored Vodka: For an extra layer of flavor, try using vanilla or citrus vodka instead of plain vodka—your guests will love the subtle depth.
• Sugar Rimmed Glasses: Before pouring your shots, rim the glass with crushed candy canes or colored sugar for an eye-catching presentation.
• Alcohol-Free Version: Simply omit vodka and use sparkling water infused with peppermint extract for a fun mocktail shot that everyone can enjoy.

How to Make Candy Cane Shots with Peppermint Vodka Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Peppermints and Vodka

Start by unwrapping your peppermint disks. It may seem minor, but removing them from their packaging ahead of time saves you from dealing with candy mess later. Then, divide 10 peppermint disks into each of two clean mason jars. Pour in your unflavored vodka evenly between the jars—this ensures the flavor infuses consistently.

Step 2: Shake, Refrigerate, and Wait

Seal each jar tightly and give them a gentle shake, turning them upside down momentarily to mix things up. Then pop the jars into your fridge. The key here is patience—the peppermint needs about 5 days to completely dissolve into the vodka. This slow infusion is what transforms the vodka into that delightful peppermint shot we love.

Step 3: Final Shake and Serve

After the wait, you’ll notice a white layer settled at the bottom of each jar. Don’t worry—that’s totally normal! I discovered that turning the jars upside down for about an hour before giving them a thorough shake helps mix that layer back in. Finally, pour into shot glasses and get ready for instant holiday cheer!

How to Serve Candy Cane Shots with Peppermint Vodka Recipe

Garnishes

I love garnishing these shots with mini candy canes hooked on the rim or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top. It adds that extra festive flair and a little crunch with every sip. Plus, it makes your presentation to-die-for during holiday gatherings.

Side Dishes

Serve these peppermint shots alongside chocolate desserts—my personal favorite is rich, fudgy brownies or peppermint bark. The creamy chocolate complements the mint perfectly, making your party spread unforgettable.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I like to present these shots in a festive tray filled with crushed peppermint candy and scatter small holiday ornaments around. Using colorful shot glasses or even edible ice cubes with cranberries frozen inside takes the vibe up a notch and always gets compliments.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover peppermint vodka shots right in their mason jars, sealed tightly, in the fridge. They hold up perfectly for at least two weeks, and the flavor often deepens, so you can make a batch ahead without worry.

Freezing

Freezing alcohol can be tricky since vodka doesn’t fully freeze due to its alcohol content. I don’t recommend freezing these shots, as it can affect texture and dilution when they thaw. Keep them chilled instead!

Reheating

Since these are shots meant to be enjoyed cold, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. If they seem a little thick after storage, just give the jar a good shake to redistribute any settled bits and serve chilled.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Candy Cane Shots with Peppermint Vodka Recipe has become my holiday secret weapon. It’s such an easy way to add festive cheer, and I love that you don’t need to be a mixologist to nail it. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to treat yourself, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try—I’m betting you’ll be as hooked on it as my family is!

Print