Cool, minty, and just a little indulgent—the Polar Bear cocktail is like sipping a grown-up version of a peppermint patty. With its smooth chocolate notes and refreshing mint finish, it’s a go-to after-dinner drink or a festive favorite for holiday parties and summer nights alike.
Polar Bear
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something sweet but not too heavy. It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Highball or rocks glass
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) crème de cacao (white or dark, depending on your preference)
– 1 oz (30 ml) peppermint schnapps
– A handful of ice cubes
Optional Garnish:
– Fresh mint sprig
– Mini candy cane
– Chocolate shavings
Method
- Grab a cocktail shaker and toss in a handful of ice.
- Pour in the crème de cacao and peppermint schnapps.
- Shake it well—about 10–15 seconds—until the outside of the shaker feels nice and frosty.
- Strain into a chilled glass. Use a highball for a longer sip or a rocks glass for a more concentrated flavor.
- Garnish if you’d like, and serve immediately while it’s icy cold.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your glass ahead of time. Just pop it in the freezer for a few minutes—this keeps your drink colder for longer.
– Use good-quality schnapps. The mint is front and center here, so a clean, crisp flavor makes a big difference.
– Want an extra minty kick? Muddle a couple of fresh mint leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the crème de cacao and peppermint schnapps in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just shake with ice right before serving.
Note: This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh—don’t store it with ice, or it’ll get watered down.
Substitutions & Variations
Substitutions:
– No peppermint schnapps? Try menthol vodka for a sharper, less sweet mint.
– Don’t have crème de cacao? White chocolate liqueur works for a creamier twist.
Easy Variations:
Arctic Fox
– Add ½ oz (15 ml) vanilla vodka for a smoother, richer finish.
Glacial Mint
– Add a splash (½ oz/15 ml) of blue curaçao for a citrusy pop and icy blue color.
Snowy Owl
– Swap crème de cacao for white chocolate liqueur and serve in a cocoa-rimmed glass.
Virgin Polar Bear
– Mix peppermint syrup with cold chocolate milk over ice. It’s a fun, alcohol-free treat that still delivers that mint-chocolate magic.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I’ve learned: don’t over-shake. A quick shake chills it perfectly—too much, and you’ll water it down.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail shines brightest after dinner or as a holiday sipper. Serve it with:
– Dark chocolate truffles – the deep cocoa notes play beautifully with the mint.
– Salted caramel brownies – the sweet-salty combo balances the cocktail’s richness.
– Berry tarts – their tartness cuts through the creamy flavors for a fresh finish.
Helpful Hints
– If you’re serving a crowd, scale the recipe up and mix in a pitcher. Just shake each serving with ice before pouring.
– For a festive touch, rim the glass with crushed peppermint candy or cocoa powder.
– Want to impress? Float a bit of whipped cream on top and sprinkle with chocolate curls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Don’t use cheap liqueurs—this drink is simple, so quality matters.
– Avoid over-shaking or letting it sit too long after making—it’s meant to be served ice-cold.
– Be careful with substitutions like mint extract; it’s super concentrated. Just a drop or two is plenty.
FAQs
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients by how many servings you want. Mix ahead, chill, and shake individual portions with ice.
Is it vegan?
It can be—just check your liqueur labels. Many crème de cacao and schnapps brands are vegan, but it varies.
How do I make it look more festive?
Try a mini candy cane hooked on the rim, or a sprig of mint tucked in like a little garnish flag.
Can I use crushed ice instead of cubes?
Absolutely. It chills faster and gives a slightly slushier texture—great for hot days.
How do I make it less sweet?
Swap in menthol vodka or use a dry chocolate liqueur. You’ll still get the flavor without all the sugar.
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Whether you’re winding down after dinner or kicking off a cozy night in, the Polar Bear is a simple, fun cocktail that always delivers. Sweet, minty, and just strong enough to make it interesting, it’s one of those drinks you’ll come back to again and again.
