The Ultimate Guide to Crafting a Perfect Peppermint Patty Shot

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the delightful Peppermint Patty Shot – a quintessential winter cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of a beloved chocolate peppermint candy in liquid form. This easy-to-make shooter is a harmonious blend of rich Crème de Cacao, invigorating Peppermint Schnapps, and creamy Bailey’s Irish Cream, creating a decadent and refreshing experience. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday gathering, unwinding after a brisk day in the snow, or simply craving a sweet, boozy treat, this Peppermint Patty Shot recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible flavor and simplicity.

Why This Peppermint Patty Shooter is Your New Winter Favorite

Imagine the cool, refreshing burst of peppermint perfectly balanced with the smooth, comforting richness of chocolate, all wrapped in a creamy embrace. That’s precisely what you get with every sip of this exquisite Peppermint Patty Shot. It’s more than just a drink; it’s an experience that evokes cozy winter evenings, festive celebrations, and the joyous spirit of the season. Its simplicity makes it a fantastic choice for both seasoned mixologists and cocktail novices alike. This shooter is not only incredibly delicious but also quick to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy your company and the festivities.

The original inspiration might have come from the simple pleasure of a chocolate peppermint patty candy, but this alcoholic rendition elevates that familiar flavor profile into a sophisticated yet fun adult beverage. It’s particularly satisfying after a day spent embracing winter activities – perhaps skiing down powdery slopes, snowshoeing through tranquil forests, or even just tackling the inevitable task of snow removal. While my snow blower might have a mind of its own (resulting in comical backyard adventures!), I find solace in knowing a delicious Peppermint Patty Shot awaits as a well-deserved reward.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Peppermint Patty Shot

Crafting this delightful shot requires just three key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that signature Peppermint Patty flavor. Quality ingredients ensure the best possible taste, so choose your liqueurs wisely.

Key Liqueurs:

• Crème de Cacao Liqueur: This sweet, chocolate-flavored liqueur forms the rich, chocolatey base of our shot. You can opt for either a clear (white) or dark variety; both will deliver the necessary chocolate notes, though dark Crème de Cacao might add a slightly deeper color.
• Peppermint Schnapps: The star of the show for its invigorating minty kick. Peppermint Schnapps provides that classic cooling sensation and distinct flavor that makes a peppermint patty so unique. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of mintiness.
• Bailey’s Irish Cream Liqueur: Adding a creamy, smooth texture and a hint of whiskey, Bailey’s binds the chocolate and peppermint flavors together beautifully. Its velvety richness gives the shot a luxurious finish.

These three liqueurs combine to create a balanced profile that is both sweet and refreshing, a true homage to the iconic candy.

Tools You’ll Need for a Smooth Shot

While the Peppermint Patty Shot is incredibly simple to make, having the right tools on hand will ensure a perfectly chilled and well-mixed drink every time. You don’t need a professional bar setup to get started!

Essential Equipment:

• OXO Angled Jiggers: These are incredibly handy for precise measurements, especially when dealing with smaller volumes like those in a shot. Their angled design makes it easy to read measurements from above, preventing spills and ensuring accuracy.
• Cocktail Shaker: A good cocktail shaker is essential for thoroughly mixing and chilling your ingredients. Look for one with a built-in strainer for effortless pouring. Many shakers come with complementary bar tools, which can be a great bonus.
• 2-Ounce Shot Glasses: The ideal vessel for serving your Peppermint Patty Shots. For layered shots, these larger 2oz glasses are perfect, allowing the colors and densities of different liqueurs to shine. For this recipe, where all ingredients are shaken together, they offer a generous serving.
• Ice: Plenty of ice is crucial for chilling the shot quickly without over-diluting it.

Step-by-Step: How to Craft the Perfect Peppermint Patty Shot

Making a Peppermint Patty Shot is incredibly straightforward, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly blended and chilled shot.

Quick Preparation Guide:

1. Measure Your Liqueurs: Using your jigger, carefully measure equal parts of Crème de Cacao, Peppermint Schnapps, and Bailey’s Irish Cream. A common ratio is 0.5 ounces of each for a standard shot, but you can adjust to fill a 2-ounce shot glass perfectly.
2. Combine and Chill: Pour all three measured liqueurs into your cocktail shaker. Fill the shaker about two-thirds full with ice. This ensures rapid chilling without excessive dilution.
3. Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid of your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You’ll know it’s sufficiently chilled when the outside of the shaker feels frosty. This step is key to properly blending the flavors and achieving that ideal cold temperature.
4. Strain and Serve: Remove the lid and strain the chilled mixture directly into your shot glass (or glasses, if making multiple). Garnish if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy its refreshing coolness.

Preparation Ahead & Storage Solutions

One of the beauties of the Peppermint Patty Shot is its flexibility, allowing for some preparation in advance. This can be a real time-saver when entertaining a crowd!

Make Ahead and Storage:

Unlike some intricate layered cocktails where immediate pouring is crucial for aesthetic appeal, the Peppermint Patty Shot is designed to be well-mixed. This means you can prepare a larger batch in advance without compromising on taste or presentation. Simply combine all the liqueurs in a pitcher or an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, give the mixture a good shake or stir to remix any ingredients that may have settled, then pour into a cocktail shaker with ice and follow the chilling and straining steps as usual. This ensures a fresh, cold shot every time.

Freezing for a Frozen Treat:

Looking for a different take on this classic? You can easily transform the Peppermint Patty Shot into a refreshing frozen drink. Simply double the shot ingredients (or adjust to your desired volume) and blend them with a handful of ice until smooth and slushy. This creates a delightful Frozen Peppermint Patty Drink, perfect for a warmer evening or a unique dessert cocktail. Increase the proportions of ingredients as needed to fill your chosen drinking glass, and consider a drizzle of chocolate syrup inside the glass for an extra touch of indulgence.

Customizing Your Peppermint Patty Shot: Variations for Every Diet

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing for substitutions and modifications to suit various dietary preferences and flavor profiles. Experiment to find your perfect Peppermint Patty Shot!

Recipe Variations:

• Substitutions:
  • If Crème de Cacao is unavailable, a chocolate-flavored vodka can be a good substitute, though it might alter the sweetness slightly.
  • For the peppermint component, Crème de Menthe can replace Peppermint Schnapps. Crème de Menthe is generally sweeter and has a lower alcohol content. Be mindful of the color: use clear Crème de Menthe unless you intentionally want a green-hued shot.
• Vegetarian Option: This Peppermint Patty Shot recipe is inherently 100% vegetarian, making it suitable for all vegetarian guests.
• Vegan Option: While Peppermint Schnapps and Crème de Cacao are typically vegan, traditional Bailey’s Irish Cream contains dairy. For a vegan version, simply swap out the standard Bailey’s for Baileys Almande, their delicious dairy-free alternative made with almond milk and vanilla. This ensures your vegan friends can enjoy this sweet treat too.
• Gluten-Free: All three primary ingredients (Crème de Cacao, Peppermint Schnapps) are generally considered gluten-free. However, Bailey’s does not explicitly guarantee its products are gluten-free due to production processes. For strictly gluten-free diets, use a certified gluten-free alternative to Bailey’s, such as the aforementioned Baileys Almande, which is also gluten-free. Always double-check labels for current information.
• Alcohol-Free Option: To create a delicious mocktail version, substitute each alcoholic liqueur with a non-alcoholic (NA) alternative. There are several NA chocolate liqueurs, peppermint syrups, and dairy-free cream liqueurs available that can perfectly replicate the flavor profile without the alcohol.
• Smaller Serving Size: The standard recipe yields enough for one 2-ounce shot. If you prefer smaller servings, simply divide the mixture between two 1-ounce shot glasses, making mini Peppermint Patty Shots.
• Larger Group/More Servings: Easily scale this recipe up for parties! Multiply the ingredients by the number of shots you need. If making a very large batch, you might need to work in batches when chilling with ice to ensure optimal coldness for every serving.
• Sugar-Free: Achieving a completely sugar-free version of this shot can be challenging, as the liqueurs are inherently sweet. Currently, commercially available sugar-free alcoholic Crème de Cacao, Peppermint Schnapps, or Irish cream alternatives are rare. Those on a strict sugar-free diet might need to either skip this sweet shot or explore making homemade sugar-free liqueurs using online recipes.

Advanced Tips for an Unforgettable Peppermint Patty Shot

Elevate your Peppermint Patty Shot with these simple tips for enhanced flavor and presentation:

• Boost Chocolate Flavor: For an even richer chocolate experience, consider adding a splash of Godiva Chocolate Liqueur to your mix, or drizzle a tiny bit of chocolate syrup into your shot glass before pouring.
• Garnish for Impact: A simple yet elegant garnish can make all the difference. Lay a mini peppermint patty candy or a small square of dark chocolate over the rim of the shot glass, or crush some peppermint candy canes and rim the glass with them for a festive touch.
• Layering for Visual Appeal: While traditionally shaken, if you want to try a layered shot, carefully pour the denser liqueurs first (Crème de Cacao), followed by Peppermint Schnapps, and then the lighter Bailey’s Irish Cream, using the back of a spoon to guide each layer. This requires a bit more finesse but creates a stunning visual.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Peppermint Patty Shot

The Peppermint Patty Shot, with its festive flavor, is a fantastic addition to any holiday spread, winter cocktail party, or even a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Its unique taste pairs well with a variety of dishes, from savory appetizers to decadent desserts.

Appetizers & Sides:

• Brown Sugar Bacon Wrapped Smokies: The sweet and savory contrast is a delightful match.
• Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls: Rich and cheesy, these offer a savory counterpoint.
• Cheesy Green Beans or Campbell’s Green Bean Casserole: Comforting and creamy vegetable dishes.
• Homemade Cranberry Sauce: Its tartness can provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
• Sweet Potato Casserole with Canned Yams: A classic sweet side that complements the shot’s dessert-like qualities.
• Creamed Corn Casserole: Another sweet and savory side that works well.
• CrockPot Scalloped Potatoes & Ham: A hearty, comforting dish for a substantial meal.

Main Dishes:

• Eggnog French Toast or Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole: Excellent choices for a festive brunch.
• Ham & Cheese Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole: Another brunch-friendly option.
• Roasts like CrockPot Turkey or various hams (CrockPot Ham, Bourbon Baked Ham, CrockPot Orange Glazed Ham, CrockPot Coke Glazed Ham): These hearty mains are perfect for a full holiday meal where the shot can serve as a digestif or a festive accompaniment.
• CrockPot Cranberry Barbecue Meatballs: A crowd-pleasing appetizer or light main.

Desserts:

• Eggnog Cookies or Eggnog Cake with Eggnog Glaze: Complementary holiday flavors.
• Sugared Cranberries: A beautiful and tart garnish or small treat.
• 4 Ingredient Christmas Crack, Reindeer Chow, Grinch Bark: Fun, festive, and easy-to-make sweet treats.
• No Bake Church Window Cookies or Snowball Cookies: Classic winter cookie options.
• No Bake Eggnog Pie: A creamy, no-fuss dessert.
• Snow Ice Cream: A whimsical and seasonal dessert.
• Black Forest Cupcakes: The chocolate and cherry notes can surprisingly complement the peppermint.

Complementary Drinks:

• Baileys Hot Chocolate: For a non-alcoholic (or mildly alcoholic) warm treat.
• Grinch Jello Shots or Boozy Grinch Drink: Fun, festive, and often green-themed drinks.
• Cranberry Mimosa: A brighter, bubbly option for contrast.
• CrockPot Hot Buttered Rum: A warm and spicy alternative.
• Polar Bear Shot or Three Wise Men Shot: Other popular shot recipes for variety.
• Ultimate Eggnog Mudslide: Another rich, creamy dessert cocktail.

When to Enjoy This Festive Shot

The Peppermint Patty Shot shines brightest during the colder months, making it a perfect fit for a variety of festive occasions. Its refreshing yet indulgent character makes it versatile for many gatherings.

• St. Patrick’s Day: While not traditionally Irish, the green hue (if using green crème de menthe) or just its festive nature makes it a fun addition to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
• Holiday Cocktail Party: A definite crowd-pleaser for any holiday gathering, offering a sophisticated yet playful drink option.
• Holiday Brunch: A unique and spirited addition to a festive brunch spread.
• Christmas Celebrations: Its chocolate and peppermint flavors are synonymous with Christmas, making it an ideal choice for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day toasts.
• Winter Season Parties: Any social event throughout the winter months is an excellent opportunity to share this delightful shot.
• After-Dinner Digestif: Its dessert-like qualities make it a perfect nightcap.

Explore More Delicious Cocktail Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the Peppermint Patty Shot, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other creative and delicious drink recipes. Here are some curated collections to inspire your next concoction:

• Crème de Cacao Cocktails: Dive deeper into recipes featuring this versatile chocolate liqueur.
• Epic Guide to Peppermint Schnapps Drinks: Discover a wide range of beverages that showcase the refreshing kick of peppermint schnapps.
• 17 Baileys Drinks and Cocktails That Taste Great! Explore the creamy potential of Baileys Irish Cream in various delightful forms.
• St. Patrick’s Day Drinks, Cocktails, and Shots! Get ready for festive green-themed beverages.
• Warm Up by the Fire with These 30+ Winter Cocktails: Find more cozy and comforting drinks for the chilly season.

Do you love recipes beyond cocktails? Check out our copycat recipes, dessert recipes, and our CrockPot Recipes for even more culinary inspiration.

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Peppermint Patty Shot Recipe

An easy 3-ingredient Peppermint Patty Shot that tastes just like your favorite chocolate peppermint candy. Simple to make and absolutely delicious.

Prep Time: 3 minutes

Total Time: 3 minutes

Servings: 1

Calories: 240 kcal

Author: Tammilee Tips

Print Recipe

Ingredients

• 0.5 Ounce Crème de Cacao Liqueur
• 0.5 Ounce Peppermint Schnapps
• 0.5 – 1 Ounce Bailey’s Irish Cream

Instructions

1. Combine all three liqueurs in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake until thoroughly chilled and strain into a shot glass. Enjoy immediately.

Kitchen Tools

• Cocktail Shaker
• Shot Glasses

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition Facts

Peppermint Patty Shot

Amount Per Serving

Calories 240

Calories from Fat 54

% Daily Value*

Fat 6g 9%

Saturated Fat 3g 19%

Cholesterol 1mg 0%

Sodium 1mg 0%

Carbohydrates 24g 8%

Sugar 18g 20%

Protein 1g 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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