This merry Candy Cane Spritzer Cocktail is a festive drink that will brighten up any holiday party! It combines sparkling soda with minty goodness and a hint of sweetness.
Honestly, who can resist a drink that looks and tastes like Christmas cheer? I love serving this in fun glasses topped with crushed candy canes. You’ll be the life of the party with this one!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Candy Canes: These are essential for both the rim and garnish. If you can’t find candy canes, crushed peppermint candies work well too. I sometimes use the mini candy canes as a fun option for stirring.
Peppermint Schnapps: This adds the signature mint flavor to the drink. If you want a lighter version, you can replace it with peppermint extract (use sparingly) mixed with more club soda.
Vanilla Vodka: This adds sweetness and depth. If you want to skip the alcohol, try using vanilla-flavored sparkling soda instead for a non-alcoholic version!
Club Soda or Sparkling Water: For that fizzy touch. Feel free to use flavored sparkling waters, like lemon or lime, for an extra twist.
How Do You Make Sure the Rim Stays Coated with Candy?
Getting the rim of your glass perfectly coated with crushed candy canes is key for both flavor and presentation. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a shallow dish for the crushed candy canes mixed with sugar. This makes dipping easier.
- Before dipping, wet the rim with water or peppermint schnapps. This helps the candy stick better.
- Dip the wet rim straight down into the candy mixture. Twisting the glass slightly helps ensure an even coat.
- Let excess candy fall off before setting the glass aside. This keeps it from spilling into your drink.
Following these tips will give your drinks a festive and fun look while enhancing the flavor. Cheers to holiday fun!
Candy Cane Spritzer Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For Rimming and Garnish:
- 1 cup crushed candy canes (for rimming and garnish)
- 2 candy canes (whole, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for rimming)
For the Cocktail:
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz vanilla vodka
- 1/2 cup club soda or sparkling water (chilled)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Once you mix the ingredients and rim the glasses, you’re ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glasses:
Start by mixing the crushed candy canes with sugar on a small plate. This will be used to coat the rims of your glasses. If you prefer no sugar, you can skip that part altogether.
2. Rim the Glasses:
Wet the rims of your glasses with water or a little peppermint schnapps. Then, gently dip each rim into the candy cane mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. Set the glasses aside to let the candy stick.
3. Add Ice:
Fill each prepared glass with ice cubes. This will keep your cocktail nice and chilled!
4. Mix the Cocktail:
Pour 1 oz of peppermint schnapps and 1 oz of vanilla vodka over the ice in each glass. The combination of these spirits adds a festive twist perfect for the holiday season.
5. Top with Fizz:
Finally, top off each glass with chilled club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently to combine all the flavors without losing the fizz.
6. Garnish and Serve:
To make it even more festive, hook a whole candy cane on the rim of each glass. Serve immediately and enjoy the bubbly, minty goodness of your Candy Cane Spritzer Cocktail!
Cheers and happy holidays!
Can I Make This Cocktail Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! To create a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the peppermint schnapps and vanilla vodka. Instead, enhance the flavor with a splash of vanilla syrup and top with more club soda or flavored sparkling water. You’ll still get that festive taste!
How Can I Store Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover ingredients, store crushed candy canes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Any open schnapps or vodka should be sealed and stored in a cool, dark place. Club soda should be kept in the fridge once opened for freshness!
Can I Use Different Flavored Candies?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with different flavored candies for rimming. Crushed peppermint, butterscotch, or even chocolate mints can add a unique twist to your spritzer cocktail.
What Glassware Works Best for This Cocktail?
Chilled highball glasses or festive holiday glasses work beautifully for serving your Candy Cane Spritzer. The taller shape allows for the fizz to shine, and you can have fun with decorative designs!