Introduction

The Peppermint Baileys Martini is a festive and creamy holiday cocktail that combines the smooth richness of Baileys Irish Cream with refreshing peppermint flavor and a touch of chocolate. Perfect for a cozy winter evening or a holiday party, this drink is as delightful to look at as it is to sip.

A clear martini glass filled with a creamy, light beige drink. The glass rim is decorated with crushed white and red peppermint pieces, forming a textured ring. A small red and white striped candy cane is hooked on the right side of the rim. The glass stands on a flat surface with white marbled texture and is placed at the edge of a wooden board. In the background, there are blurred holiday decorations including a gold ornament and a green pine branch with candy canes hanging from it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
1 oz vanilla vodka
1 oz peppermint schnapps
1/2 oz chocolate syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
Crushed candy canes (for rimming the glass)
Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Mini candy canes (optional, for garnish)
Ice cubes

Instructions

Step 1: Pour a bit of chocolate syrup onto a small plate. Dip the rim of your martini glass into the syrup, then immediately press it into crushed candy canes to coat. Set the glass aside.
Step 2: In a cocktail shaker, combine Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla vodka, peppermint schnapps, and chocolate syrup. Add a handful of ice cubes.
Step 3: Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds until the mixture is well chilled and blended.
Step 4: Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
Step 5: Garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings, and add a mini candy cane for an extra festive touch, if desired.

Tips & Variations

Chill your martini glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes before serving to keep the drink colder for longer.
Use chocolate syrup on the rim instead of water to help the crushed candy canes stick better and enhance the flavor.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more chocolate syrup into the shaker if you prefer a sweeter cocktail.
Reduce or increase the peppermint schnapps to suit your taste for mint intensity.
For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Baileys and vodka with non-alcoholic Irish cream and use peppermint extract instead of schnapps.
Try adding a splash of cold brew or espresso for a peppermint mocha twist.
If you don’t have peppermint schnapps, a few drops of peppermint extract work well as an alternative.
Use plant-based Irish cream and dairy-free whipped topping to make this drink dairy-free.

Storage

You can prepare the rims ahead of time and keep the glasses refrigerated until ready to serve. If you have leftover martini mix, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake well with fresh ice before serving again for the best flavor.

How to Serve

A clear martini glass filled with a smooth, creamy off-white drink sits on a white marbled surface with a wooden cutting board slightly visible on the right. The glass rim is decorated with crushed white and red peppermint pieces, giving it a rough texture. A small red and white striped candy cane hangs on the right side of the glass rim. In the blurred dark blue background, a small candy cane hangs on a green pine branch on the left, and a shiny, round gold Christmas ornament rests on the surface below. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the Peppermint Baileys Martini ahead of time?

Yes, you can pre-mix the Baileys, vanilla vodka, peppermint schnapps, and chocolate syrup in a jar and chill it in the fridge. Shake with ice just before serving to keep it fresh and cold.

What can I use if I don’t have peppermint schnapps?

If peppermint schnapps isn’t available, a few drops of peppermint extract make a great substitute. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the drink.