Peppermint Eggnog Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic holiday treat that instantly brings festive cheer to any gathering. Creamy, smooth, and kissed with refreshing peppermint, this cozy beverage is perfect for those chilly evenings by the fire or holiday parties with friends and family. Whether you're a longtime eggnog lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to please anyone who appreciates a little minty magic in their glass.
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What Makes This So Good
This Peppermint Eggnog Recipe combines the rich, velvety smoothness of traditional eggnog with a cool burst of peppermint flavor, creating a perfect balance of creamy sweetness and refreshing mint. It’s a festive treat that feels indulgent yet light enough not to overwhelm your taste buds.
- Big Flavor, Minimal Fuss: You only need four simple ingredients, and the whole drink comes together in just minutes.
- Family-Friendly: Easily omit the peppermint schnapps for a kid-friendly version, or adjust the booze to taste for adults.
- Simple Ingredients: Using store-bought eggnog and crushed candy canes keeps this recipe straightforward and approachable.
- Works Any Night: Whether it’s Christmas Eve or a cozy winter movie night, this drink adds that little festive spark you’ll enjoy every time.
Ingredient Guide
Choosing the right ingredients is key to nailing this Peppermint Eggnog Recipe. Here’s how to pick and prep everything for maximum flavor and ease.
- Eggnog: I recommend using a creamy, well-spiced eggnog—whether dairy or dairy-free—to get that classic rich texture and festive aroma.
- Peppermint Schnapps: This adds the signature minty kick and a little boozy warmth. If you want to go lighter, you can reduce the amount or leave it out for a mocktail.
- Crushed Candy Canes: Freshly crushed candy canes bring a lovely crunch and bright peppermint flavor. You can crush them yourself or buy pre-crushed.
- Whipped Cream: Use a freshly whipped cream topping or your favorite store-bought version for that velvety finish and an extra touch of indulgence.
Quick Reminder: Full measurements are in the recipe card below.
How to Make Peppermint Eggnog Recipe
Step 1 — Prep & Ready
Start with room temperature eggnog—it mixes better with the schnapps that way, making the flavors meld smoothly. Have your glasses ready, and crush the candy canes just before serving so they stay crisp and bright. You'll notice the simple prep helps everything come together quickly once you begin mixing.
Step 2 — Cook with Confidence
For this Peppermint Eggnog Recipe, no cooking is needed, which makes it super approachable. Simply pour the eggnog and peppermint schnapps into a pitcher and stir gently but thoroughly. Give it a moment for the cool mint scent to rise—it’s a sure sign your holiday spirit is kicking in. If you want it chilled, pop the mix in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or add ice just before serving.
Step 3 — Finish & Serve
Serve this festive drink in tall glasses topped generously with fluffy whipped cream. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes right on top for a crunchy peppermint surprise and that gorgeous red and white holiday pop. The creamy texture combined with the crisp candy edges makes every sip feel like a celebration. Pour slowly so the whipped cream keeps its shape and doesn’t get lost in the glass.
Extra Helpful Tips
I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that make this Peppermint Eggnog Recipe even more enjoyable and fail-proof—so here’s the lowdown to keep your holiday spirits high and your drink perfect every time.
- Watch for This Sign: When the eggnog and schnapps blend evenly, you’ll see a smooth, velvety surface without oiliness—this means the flavors are perfectly married.
- Temperature Trick: For best taste, serve chilled but avoid letting the mixture get too cold or icy, which can dull the peppermint flavor.
- Prep-Ahead Option: Mix eggnog and schnapps up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Just add the whipped cream and candy canes fresh before serving.
- Avoid This Common Mistake: Don’t crush candy canes too early or they’ll get soggy, losing their delightful crunch and brightness.
Serve & Enjoy
Easy Enhancements
You can make this Peppermint Eggnog Recipe even more festive by adding a dash of cocoa powder on top, a cinnamon stick stirrer, or a sprinkle of nutmeg for warmth. A few fresh mint leaves as garnish also add a lovely aroma and visual pop. If you like a little sparkle, try some edible glitter or crushed peppermint candy rim on the glass.
Tasty Pairings
This cozy drink pairs wonderfully with gingerbread cookies, chocolate peppermint bark, or a small cheese plate with almonds and cranberries. If you’re serving it at a party, consider simple finger foods like mini quiches or spiced nuts to complement its creamy sweetness.
Quick Plating Tips
For an inviting presentation, pour your Peppermint Eggnog into clear glasses to show off the creamy color, then top neatly with whipped cream and a candy cane hook on the rim for a festive touch. A dusting of shaved chocolate or finely grated peppermint zest adds a finishing flourish that guests will love.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Fridge Storage
You can store your mixed eggnog and peppermint schnapps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You might notice the texture thickens slightly over time—just give it a gentle stir before serving, and it’ll be just as creamy and delicious.
Freezer Friendly?
Eggnog doesn't freeze very well because of its dairy content; freezing can cause separation and a grainy texture. I don’t recommend freezing this Peppermint Eggnog Recipe if you want to keep that creamy, luscious mouthfeel.
Reheat Like New
This is best enjoyed cold, so reheating isn't usually necessary, but if you want a warm version, heat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Avoid the microwave as it can cause uneven heating. Add the whipped cream and candy canes after warming for that holiday magic.
Peppermint Eggnog Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! Simply skip the peppermint schnapps and add a splash of peppermint extract instead, adjusting to taste. It’s just as festive and delicious without the booze.
Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a pan. Make sure not to crush too early to keep them crisp and vibrant on top of your drink.
Yes! Mix the eggnog and peppermint schnapps up to 24 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. Add the whipped cream topping and candy cane garnish just before serving for best results.
Tall glasses or festive mugs work perfectly. Clear glass lets you show off the creamy color and the whipped cream topping, which always looks inviting.
Final Flavor Thoughts
I love how this Peppermint Eggnog Recipe brings a little holiday sparkle to any day without any fuss. I hope you find it as comforting and festive as I do—don’t be shy to tweak the peppermint or booziness to suit your style. If you give it a try, leave a star rating or share your favorite peppermint twist in the comments. There’s something magical about sipping this creamy, minty treat that turns winter moments into memories.
Print📖 Recipe
Peppermint Eggnog Recipe
A festive and refreshing Peppermint Eggnog recipe combining classic creamy eggnog with a cool peppermint schnapps twist, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups eggnog
- ½ cup peppermint schnapps
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a pitcher, pour 2 cups of eggnog and ½ cup of peppermint schnapps. Stir thoroughly to blend the flavors together evenly.
- Serve and Garnish: Pour the mixture into serving glasses. Top each glass with a generous dollop of whipped cream, then sprinkle crushed candy canes over the whipped cream for a festive garnish.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the peppermint schnapps and add a few drops of peppermint extract.
- Use fresh whipped cream or store-bought depending on convenience.
- Crushing candy canes finely helps them stick better to the whipped cream.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
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