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This festive Peppermint Christmas Shots recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, balancing a refreshing minty kick with smooth chocolatey flavors. Simple yet festive, these shots are a seasonal favorite that instantly bring a celebratory feel to any party.
Ever since I made these for my family’s annual cookie swap, they’ve become a must-have for every Christmas celebration. Everyone always asks for the recipe.
- Peppermint schnapps: Adds a cooling minty flavor that defines the holiday spirit. Go for a high-quality brand for a smooth finish
- Chocolate liqueur: Brings a rich and creamy cocoa essence. Look for one that’s not overly sweet for the perfect balance
- Whipped cream: Gives a luscious creamy topping that enhances the overall presentation and taste
- Festive sprinkles: Make the shots look fun and seasonal. Choose red and green for an extra Christmas vibe
How To Make Peppermint Christmas Shots
- Combine the Liquors:
- In a shaker, add the peppermint schnapps and chocolate liqueur along with some ice. Shake the ingredients vigorously for 20 seconds to chill and mix them well.
- Strain and Pour:
- Place the prepared shot glasses on a table and carefully strain the mixed liquid into each glass. Leave a small gap at the top for the toppings.
- Top with Whipped Cream:
- Add a dollop of whipped cream to each shot glass. Make sure to swirl gently so it sits nicely on top of the liquid.
- Finish with Sprinkles:
- Sprinkle the whipped cream with festive sprinkles for that final holiday touch. Serve immediately and enjoy.
My favorite ingredient here is the peppermint schnapps. Its crisp and cool minty taste feels like a sip of winter in every shot. A family friend introduced me to it, and since then it has been a staple ingredient during our holiday festivities.
Storage Tips
These shots are best made fresh, but you can prepare the liquid mix ahead and keep it in the refrigerator for a few hours. Just shake before pouring and garnish right before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If peppermint schnapps is unavailable, you can swap it with a peppermint-flavored vodka. Use a dairy-free whipped topping if needed for dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the shots with Christmas cookies or alongside dessert platters. They can also be a fun addition to a festive cocktail bar setup during holiday gatherings.
These Peppermint Christmas Shots are bound to become a highlight of your holiday celebrations, offering an easy way to bring festive cheer to the table.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a substitute for peppermint schnapps?
Yes, mint-flavored vodka or crème de menthe can be used as an alternative for peppermint schnapps. However, the peppermint schnapps offers the most authentic flavor for this drink.
- → What chocolate liqueur works best?
Baileys Chocolate Cherry, Godiva Chocolate Liqueur, or any high-quality chocolate liqueur will work well to complement the peppermint flavor.
- → Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Yes, replace the peppermint schnapps with peppermint extract and the chocolate liqueur with chocolate syrup. Mix with milk or heavy cream for a creamy mocktail version.
- → How far in advance can I prepare these shots?
It’s best to prepare the shots fresh just before serving. However, you can combine the schnapps and liqueur in advance, storing the mixture in the fridge, and then pour, top, and serve when ready.
- → Can I customize the toppings?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different toppings like crushed candy canes, chocolate shavings, or colored sugar to match your festive theme.