Get into the festive spirit by crafting your own Peppermint Vodka. This homemade infused alcohol opens up a world of unique seasonal cocktails and is guaranteed to bring joy when shared! All you need are two simple ingredients: candy canes and vodka.
Love the taste of peppermint during the holidays? Don’t miss out on Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies, Mason Jar Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix, and Peppermint Milkshakes!
This recipe for Candy Cane Vodka was originally published on December 2, 2013. The photographs and text of this blog post were updated and republished in December 2020.
Now that it’s finally December, it’s completely acceptable to blast Christmas music. It’s also the perfect time to bake cookies for your co-workers, friends, and neighbors and spread a little holiday cheer.
And you know what else is totally acceptable? Infusing some delicious holiday-themed vodka, like this Peppermint Vodka, to add some flair to your parties or spice up your liquor cabinet just because.
Oh, and by the way, this infused vodka is absolutely delightful in a cup of hot chocolate.
Why I’m in Love with This Recipe:
This candy cane-infused vodka recipe requires just two ingredients: vodka and candy canes.
And since you’re imparting flavor to the vodka, there’s no need to splurge on an expensive brand. Whatever you have on hand will work just fine.
This Peppermint Vodka recipe is also perfect for gifting. So, if you have people in your life who would appreciate a minty vodka, now is the time to infuse a mason jar for them and get ready to spread some holiday cheer!
Check out these other delightful holiday sippers: Framboise Champagne Cocktail, Strawberry White Hot Chocolate, Citrus Cranberry Sangria, Pomegranate Hot Buttered Rum, and Peppermint White Russian.
Looking for more drink inspiration? Head on over to my Drink Recipe Index.
What Do You Need to Make Peppermint Vodka?
The Speckled Palate participates in various affiliate programs. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please refer to my disclosure page for more information.
To craft your Peppermint Vodka, you’ll need:
- A 16 oz. mason jar
- You can also purchase personalized mason jars if you plan on gifting this candy cane vodka!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Candy canes
- Vodka – Any brand will do since you’re infusing it with peppermint flavor. You don’t necessarily need the premium vodka you would use in a vodka-forward cocktail like a Classic Moscow Mule.
Break a candy cane. Drop it in.
Add the rest of the candy canes.
Give the jar a swirl, and cover it.
Candy canes will begin to dissolve within 15-30 minutes.
How to Make Peppermint Vodka
First and foremost, unwrap the candy canes and break them in half. Breaking them in half will make it easier to fit them all into your jar. 😉
Place the candy canes in a 16 oz. mason jar and pour the vodka over them.
Allow the vodka and candy canes to steep for a few hours. The duration may vary depending on the candy canes and the temperature of your home. If your house is warmer, the candy canes should dissolve faster into the vodka.
Once the candy canes are completely dissolved, give the jar a good shake, and it’s ready to be enjoyed!
Store your Peppermint Vodka in a cool, dry place in the mason jar, and it will remain perfectly good to drink for as long as it takes you to finish it. (And trust me, this stuff won’t go bad.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I add this Candy Cane Vodka to?
You can sip this vodka neat because it has a nice, sweet flavor. However, if you want to use it in a cocktail, here are a few suggestions that pair well with peppermint:
- Vanilla Hot Chocolate Martini: Use peppermint vodka instead of regular vodka for a minty, chocolatey dessert drink.
- Bourbon Milk Punch: Substitute the candy cane vodka for bourbon to give a classic drink an exciting twist.
- No Churn Peppermint Ice Cream Milkshake: Add a kick to your milkshake by spiking it with candy cane vodka.
- Gourmet Vanilla Hot Chocolate: Elevate your hot chocolate with a little kick and sweetness from candy cane vodka.
What kind of soda goes well with peppermint vodka?
I recommend pairing it with a classic cola, such as Coca-Cola or Pepsi.
How long does this infused vodka last?
To be honest, I don’t think it ever goes bad. Over time, you may notice that some candy cane sediment settles at the bottom of the jar if left untouched for a long time. However, simply give the jar a good stir with a cocktail spoon or shake it vigorously, and the sediment will blend right back in.
What’s the easiest way to unwrap a candy cane?
I’ve struggled with those pesky wrappers too, but I’ve found that using scissors to snip off the end of the wrapper at the bottom of the candy cane works best. Gently peel back the plastic wrap to free the candy cane! (Check out the photo below for visual assistance.)
Sound good?
Now, let’s get into the holiday spirit and make some Christmas-flavored homemade infused vodka!