There’s something magical about sipping on a creamy, minty cocktail when the weather turns frosty. The Frosty The Snowman is one of those drinks that instantly puts you in the holiday spirit—sweet, refreshing, and with just the right amount of winter whimsy. It’s been my go-to cocktail for cozy December nights, and I’ve made it more times than I can count. So I thought I’d share exactly how I make it at home, along with a few tricks I’ve picked up along the way.
Frosty The Snowman
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: Makes 1 cocktail
Glass: Martini or coupe glass, chilled
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) white crème de cacao
– 1 oz (30 ml) peppermint schnapps
– 1 oz (30 ml) heavy cream
– Crushed ice (enough to fill your shaker)
– Candy cane or peppermint stick, for garnish
Method
- Chill your glass in the freezer while you mix the drink. This helps keep everything nice and frosty.
- Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with crushed ice.
- Pour in the vodka, white crème de cacao, peppermint schnapps, and heavy cream.
- Shake well—about 20 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels icy cold.
- Strain into your chilled glass.
- Garnish with a mini candy cane or peppermint stick. You can also add chocolate shavings or a pinch of edible glitter if you’re feeling festive.
Make-Ahead Tip
Mix everything except the ice and cream ahead of time and store it in a sealed jar in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, add the cream and shake it with ice for a fresh and frothy finish.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’ve got leftover mix (without cream), keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good shake with cream and ice before serving.
Helpful Tips
– Chill your glass ahead of time to keep the drink cold longer.
– Use fresh peppermint schnapps—it loses its punch over time.
– Don’t over-shake once the cream’s in; just enough to mix and chill.
– Want it less sweet? Cut the crème de cacao to ½ oz or use a sugar-free version.
Ingredient Swaps
– No vodka? Try white rum for a slightly lighter flavor.
– Dairy-free? Use almond milk or oat milk instead of heavy cream.
– Want a richer texture? Add a splash of half-and-half along with the cream.
What It Tastes Like
Creamy, cool, and just the right amount of sweet. You get that minty freshness right up front, followed by smooth chocolate and a hint of vanilla from the crème de cacao. It’s like drinking a grown-up peppermint candy.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
Chocolate Desserts
Think chocolate truffles, brownies, or a slice of flourless chocolate cake. The richness of the chocolate balances out the minty freshness.
Spicy Appetizers
Spicy meatballs, jalapeño poppers, or even spicy roasted nuts. The cool creaminess of the cocktail helps mellow the heat.
Fruit Pies
Apple, cherry, or even cranberry pie—the subtle vanilla and mint in the drink complement fruity desserts surprisingly well.
Variations to Try
Chocolate Mint Frosty
– Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring.
– Garnish with chocolate shavings for extra richness.
Spiked Hot Cocoa Frosty
– Use hot cocoa instead of cream.
– Heat the mix gently on the stovetop, pour into a mug, and top with marshmallows.
Summer Frosty
– Swap peppermint schnapps for coconut rum.
– Serve over ice and garnish with a lime slice. Perfect for warmer months.
Virgin Frosty
– Replace vodka and schnapps with chilled peppermint tea.
– Add a splash of cream or dairy-free milk.
– Garnish with a candy cane for that holiday charm.
Common Questions
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes! Use peppermint tea and cream instead of the vodka and schnapps. Still festive, still delicious.
Is this kid-friendly?
The original version isn’t, but the Virgin Frosty is perfect for kids or anyone avoiding alcohol.
How do I tone down the sweetness?
Use less crème de cacao or try a sugar-free version.
When should I serve it?
It’s ideal for holiday parties, after-dinner drinks, or even a winter-themed brunch.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Definitely. Just scale up the ingredients (minus ice and cream), keep chilled, and shake individual portions with cream and ice before serving.
What are some fun garnish ideas?
Try chocolate shavings, crushed peppermint, a sprig of mint, or even a rim of crushed candy cane.
—
The Frosty The Snowman is more than just a cocktail—it’s a little taste of holiday nostalgia in a glass. Creamy, minty, and oh-so-refreshing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks just as festive as it tastes. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire or mixing up a batch for friends, this drink always brings the cheer.
