This festive cocktail is as fun to look at as it is to sip. The Melted Snowman is a cool, minty, citrusy drink that brings a playful winter vibe to any gathering—no matter the season. It’s sweet, a little tangy, and super refreshing. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: crushed ice makes all the difference. It chills the drink fast and gives it that slushy, snow-like texture that just fits the name.
Melted Snowman
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) white crème de menthe
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 1 cup (240 ml) crushed ice
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
– 1 mini candy cane, for garnish
Method
- Fill a highball glass all the way to the top with crushed ice. It helps keep everything cold and gives the drink a fun, snowy texture.
- Pour in the vodka.
- Add the white crème de menthe. This gives the drink its minty chill.
- Squeeze in the fresh lime juice. Fresh is key here—it brightens the whole drink.
- Stir in the simple syrup to balance the tartness.
- Give everything a gentle stir—just enough to mix, not melt the ice too much.
- Top with a few mint leaves and a mini candy cane for a festive finish.
Tips & Tricks
– Fresh lime juice really makes a difference. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same zing.
– If you don’t have crushed ice, you can wrap regular ice cubes in a clean kitchen towel and gently smash them with a rolling pin.
– A Collins glass works just as well if you don’t have a highball glass.
– Want to prep ahead? Mix the vodka, crème de menthe, lime juice, and simple syrup in a small jar and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just pour over fresh crushed ice.
Substitutions
– No vodka? Try white rum or gin for a twist.
– Green crème de menthe works too—it’ll give the drink a deeper mint flavor and a fun green hue.
– Swap simple syrup with honey or agave nectar for a natural sweetener.
Storage
This drink is best made fresh, but you can mix the liquid ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add ice and garnishes when serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is a hit at holiday parties, but it’s also perfect for cooling down on a hot afternoon. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner drinks—and this is it. It’s light, refreshing, and a great way to end the evening.
Pair it with:
– Chocolate desserts: Think brownies, chocolate mousse, or a slice of rich cake. The mint in the drink plays so well with chocolate.
– Seafood: Shrimp cocktail or seared scallops bring out the lime’s zesty notes.
– Cheese boards: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese balance the cocktail’s sweetness.
Variations to Try
Frosty Snowman
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) white crème de menthe
– 1 oz (30 ml) coconut milk
Shake with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with coconut flakes for a tropical winter twist.
Snowman’s Delight
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 1 oz (30 ml) green crème de menthe
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
Shake with ice and serve with a lemon twist. A little more herbal and citrus-forward.
Snowman’s Kiss
– 2 oz (60 ml) white rum
– 1 oz (30 ml) peppermint schnapps
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) lime juice
Shake with ice, strain into a glass, and add a mint leaf. It’s bright, clean, and super minty.
Non-Alcoholic Version
Mix 3 oz (90 ml) lemon-lime soda with 1 oz (30 ml) mint syrup and a squeeze of fresh lime. Pour over crushed ice and garnish with a candy cane. It’s kid-friendly and just as festive!
FAQs
What does it taste like?
It’s cool and refreshing with a mix of mint and citrus—like a mojito with a holiday twist.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes! Use lemon-lime soda and mint syrup for a tasty mocktail.
What’s the best glass to use?
A highball glass is perfect, but a Collins glass works too.
Can I use a different mint liqueur?
Absolutely. Green crème de menthe gives a stronger mint flavor and a fun color change.
How can I make it healthier?
Cut back on the simple syrup or swap in stevia or honey.
What foods go well with it?
Chocolate desserts, seafood, and soft cheeses all pair beautifully with the drink’s minty, citrusy notes.
This playful cocktail is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a winter party or just want something refreshing and fun. Once you try it, it might just become your new favorite too.
