Description
Ingredients:
1 oz peppermint vodka or peppermint schnapps
1/2 oz white chocolate liqueur or Irish cream
1/2 oz cream or half-and-half
Crushed candy canes or peppermint sugar for rimming
Whipped cream topping
Mini marshmallow, candy cane piece, or chocolate shaving for garnish
Instructions:
Rim your shot glass with crushed candy canes or peppermint sugar.
Fill a shaker with ice, then add peppermint vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and cream.
Shake well until chilled and frothy.
Strain into the prepared glass.
Top with whipped cream.
Garnish with a mini marshmallow, candy cane piece, or chocolate shaving.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect Peppermint White Chocolate Shot.
- Prepare the Glass: Pour a small amount of white chocolate liqueur or simple syrup onto a saucer. On a separate saucer, spread out your crushed candy canes or peppermint sugar. Dip the rim of your shot glass first into the liquid, then into the candy, twisting gently for an even coat.
- Chill the Ingredients: Fill a cocktail shaker about two-thirds full with fresh ice cubes. This ensures rapid and even chilling.
- Measure Precisely: Using a jigger, add 1 oz of peppermint vodka, 1/2 oz of white chocolate liqueur, and 1/2 oz of cream to the shaker. Precise measurements balance the flavors.
- Shake Vigorously: Secure the shaker’s lid and shake for 15-20 seconds. You should hear the ice moving freely. This chills the mixture and creates a light, frothy texture from the cream.
- Strain and Pour: Place your Hawthorne strainer over the shaker and strain the liquid into your prepared shot glass, leaving the ice behind.
- Final Touches: Gently add a dollop of whipped cream on top. Finish by placing your chosen garnish, like a mini marshmallow or a tiny candy cane piece, onto the whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions
This shot is a festive holiday star. Serve it as a welcome drink at a winter party or as a sweet finale to a dinner. For a larger serving, simply triple the recipe and serve it as a martini in a chilled coupe glass. Pair it with dark chocolate desserts, cheesecake, or espresso to complement its rich, minty profile.
How-to Summary
Rim a shot glass with candy cane crumbs. Shake 1 oz peppermint vodka, 1/2 oz white chocolate liqueur, and 1/2 oz cream with ice. Strain into the glass, top with whipped cream, and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this non-alcoholic? Absolutely. Use a peppermint syrup instead of vodka, a white chocolate syrup instead of liqueur, and cream. Adjust sweetness to taste.
What’s the best peppermint vodka? Brands like Stoli or Absolut offer good peppermint vodkas. For a stronger mint flavor, a high-quality peppermint schnapps works wonderfully.
My cream is curdling. What happened? Curdling can occur if the liqueurs are highly acidic. To prevent this, ensure all ingredients are chilled before shaking and consider using half-and-half or a higher-fat cream for more stability.
Can I batch-make these for a party? Yes. Multiply the ingredients (excluding ice and whipped cream) and mix in a large pitcher. Keep it chilled. Shake individual servings with ice just before serving to maintain the frothy texture.
What’s a good substitute for white chocolate liqueur? Irish cream is an excellent alternative, offering a creamy, vanilla-cocoa note. You can also use a vanilla vodka combined with a touch of simple syrup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Warm Ingredients: This prevents proper chilling and can cause the cream to separate. Store your liquors and cream in the fridge beforehand.
- Under-Shaking: A weak shake won’t properly chill or aerate the cream. Shake until the shaker is frosty.
- Skipping the Rim: The candy cane rim adds essential texture and visual appeal. Don’t omit it.
- Overfilling the Shaker: Leave room for the ice to move and effectively chill the liquid.
Conclusion
The Peppermint White Chocolate Shot is more than just a drink; it’s a festive experience in a glass. By following this guide, you’ll master a holiday classic that balances cool peppermint with rich, creamy chocolate. Remember the key tips: chill your ingredients, shake with conviction, and don’t skimp on the garnish. This delightful shot is sure to spread cheer and become a requested favorite at all your seasonal gatherings.