This post contains affiliate links. See my disclosure policy here.
Cocktail History
The Candy Cane Martini is a Christmas cocktail that was created by Jassy Davis and was first published in her book Winter Warmers: 60 Cosy Cocktails for Autumn & Winter. Unlike many other holiday recipes with the same name that are often considered too sweet by cocktail purists, this version takes a more refined approach by using the classic Vodka Martini template as the base and adding a festive twist with white chocolate liqueur, peppermint liqueur, and a crushed candy cane rim. This results in a drink that strikes a balance between traditional cocktail flavors and seasonal holiday cheer.
Cocktail Ingredients
To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Vodka: This is a spirit made with grains, vegetables or fruits, alcohol, and water. I used Russian Standard Gold Vodka.
White Crème De Cacao: This is a liqueur made with white chocolate, vanilla, sugar, alcohol, and water. I used Bols Crème De Cacao White.
White Crème De Menthe: This is a liqueur made with mint, sugar, alcohol, and water. I used Bols Crème De Menthe White Liqueur.
Simple Syrup: This is a sweetener made with white sugar and water. I used this stovetop recipe.
Candy Cane: This is a cane-shaped peppermint candy. I used YumEarth Organic Mini Candy Canes.
Bartending Tools
To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following bar tools:
Bar Mat: This is a rubber or silicone mat that’s placed on the bar surface to catch spills, provide grip for glasses and tools, and keep the workspace clean and organized. I used the Highball & Chaser 18×12 Bar Mat.
Jigger: This is a small, double-sided measuring tool that’s used to accurately portion spirits and mixers, typically with one side measuring 1 oz and the other 1.5 or 2 oz. I used the Japanese jigger from the A Bar Above 14-Piece Silver Bar Set.
Mixing Glass: This is a sturdy, wide-bowled glass that’s used to stir ingredients before they’re strained and served. I used the Viski 17 oz Cocktail Mixing Glass.
Bar Spoon: This is a long-handled spoon with a twisted shaft that’s used for stirring, layering, and reaching the bottom of tall cocktail glasses. I used the Barfly Stainless Steel Teardrop Bar Spoon.
Julep Strainer: This is a flat, perforated metal strainer with a handle that’s used to strain cocktails from a mixing glass or tin into a serving glass while keeping ice and solids behind. I used the A Bar Above Julep Strainer.
Mortar & Pestle Set: This is a kitchen tool consisting of a bowl and a heavy club-shaped implement that’s used for crushing, grinding, and blending ingredients into fine powders or pastes. I used the Gorilla Grip Heavy Duty Granite Mortar & Pestle Set.
Martini Glass: This is a stemmed glass with a wide, shallow bowl and a narrow stem. I used the Libbey Capone Martini Glass.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning we make a small commission each time you purchase a product using our links. Product images sourced from Amazon Product Advertising API. Amazon affiliate links last updated on 2025-01-16.
Tasting Notes
This cocktail has the following flavor profile:
• Appearance: Crystal clear color with a crushed candy cane rim
• Aroma: Peppermint and cocoa
• Taste: Boozy chocolate flavor backed by strong menthol notes
• Finish: Hint of alcohol burn and more faint chocolate
Kendall’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kendall’s Take: “I’m the opposite of a lot of more experienced drinkers in that I do tend to gravitate toward sweeter dessert drinks at Christmastime, so I was skeptical that I would like this after one look at how booze-forward it would be. I was surprised to find that, although it certainly has more astringency than I’m used to, the chocolate and peppermint notes really mellowed out the drink and made it palatable to me. I do think the candy cane rim or at least a mini candy cane to munch on is a necessary feature because it brings out the mintiness. Regardless though, I would make the Candy Cane Martini again when I want something seasonal but sophisticated.”
Recipe
This cocktail recipe was adapted from Winter Warmers: 60 Cosy Cocktails for Autumn & Winter by Jassy Davis.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning we make a small commission each time you purchase a product using our links. Product images sourced from Amazon Product Advertising API. Amazon affiliate links last updated on 2025-01-16.
Candy Cane Martini
The Candy Cane Martini is a Christmas cocktail that was created by Jassy Davis and was first published in her book Winter Warmers: 60 Cosy Cocktails for Autumn & Winter. There are several recipes out there with the same name, but most are considered kitschy by serious imbibers because they're made with super sugary ingredients. This version is entirely different because it's made with a more classic vodka Martini template but adds festivity with white chocolate liqueur, peppermint liqueur, and a crushed candy cane rim.
Ingredients
Method
-
Crush candy cane in a mortar and pestle, pour crushed candy cane onto a plate, rub outer rim of a martini glass with simple syrup, and roll glass in candy cane until coated.
-
Add vodka, white crème de cacao, white crème de menthe, and cubed ice to a mixing glass.
-
Stir for 30-45 seconds.
-
Strain into candy cane-rimmed glass.
