Baileys Peppermint Martini

Nothing says Christmas like a cozy, creamy Baileys Peppermint Martini. Quick to shake and perfect for holiday parties, whether you call it a peppermint martini with Baileys or a peppermint Baileys Christmas cocktail, this smooth, sweet martini is sure to become a new seasonal favorite!

My hubby and I have a little tradition (okay, hobby) of taste-testing seasonal drinks this time of year. After spotting Smirnoff Peppermint Twist vodka at the liquor store, cute bottle and all, we grabbed it along with Baileys and peppermint schnapps. This inspired us to create a few festive Smirnoff Peppermint Twist recipes, including this creamy Baileys Peppermint Martini. One shake later… MAGIC! A smooth, sweet, minty martini that tastes like grown-up peppermint bark.

We've made this peppermint Baileys martini a lot since then… and it's always a hit, right up there with other favorites like my Salted Caramel Martini!

Why You’ll Love this Easy Cocktail

• Only a few ingredients: You need Baileys, peppermint schnapps, and vodka. That's it!
• Tastes like Christmas in a glass: The combination of Irish cream & peppermint is perfection.
• Crowd favorite: Make one or make a big batch for a holiday gathering.
• Dessert in cocktail form: Add chocolate drizzle, whipped cream, or crushed candy cane for a festive finish.
• Perfect holiday hostess drink: Quick, simple, and always impressive.

Ingredient Notes

See printable recipe card for exact measurements and directions.

• Baileys Irish Cream: Makes the martini smooth, creamy, and sweet. Classic Baileys vanilla coffee flavor.
• Peppermint Schnapps: Adds that bold holiday minty kick. Baileys & peppermint schnapps equals a fabulous combination.
• Vodka: Use classic vodka or Smirnoff Peppermint Twist for extra candy cane flavor.
• Garnish Ideas: Chocolate syrup, whipped cream, mini candy canes, crushed peppermint, sprinkles, or a mint sprig.

Substitutions & Variations

• Make a peppermint vodka Baileys martini by using flavored peppermint vodka.
• Swap vodka for espresso vodka for a peppermint espresso martini with Baileys.
• Swap Baileys for a dairy-free Irish cream if needed.
• Add white chocolate liqueur for a white chocolate peppermint martini.
• Love chocolate? Add a teaspoon of chocolate liqueur for a chocolate peppermint martini with Baileys.
• For a lighter twist, try Baileys peppermint liqueur on its own or with a splash of vodka.
• Rim the glass with crushed candy canes for a festive holiday touch. Perfect for a peppermint Baileys Christmas cocktail.
• Serve as a grown-up shot version using peppermint Irish cream or Baileys and peppermint schnapps.

How to Make an Easy Baileys Peppermint Martini

Step 1. In a cocktail shaker, add 1 cup ice and vodka.

Step 2. Add in the peppermint schnapps.

Step 3. Pour in the Bailey’s. Shake well to combine and chill.

Step 4. Drizzle chocolate sauce inside the martini glass. Pour the cocktail, strained, into the glass. Top with whipped cream and garnish with a mini candy cane.

Tips for Success

• Shake with plenty of ice for a smooth, cold Baileys Peppermint Martini.
• Use good-quality schnapps for the cleanest peppermint flavor.
• Drizzling chocolate syrup inside the glass for a fun addition to the look.
• Chill your martini glass for extra frosty texture.
• Crush candy canes and rim the glass if you want a more Christmas-party vibe just like my Peppermint White Russian Cocktail.

Storage

This cocktail is best made fresh. BUT, if you're hosting a crowd, you can mix a large batch a few hours ahead. Chill in the fridge, then stir before pouring. Save the garnishes for the last minute.

Baileys Peppermint Martini Recipe FAQs

More Holiday Cocktail Recipes You’ll Love

This easy Baileys Peppermint Martini is your new go-to holiday cocktail. Follow me on Pinterest for more festive drinks, peppermint martinis, and seasonal cocktail recipes!!

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