The Wintergreen cocktail is like a sip of winter in a glass—cool, creamy, and refreshingly minty with a sweet finish that makes it perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re curled up by the fire or hosting a winter-themed party, this one’s a crowd-pleaser.
Wintergreen
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 oz (30 ml) crème de menthe – a minty liqueur that gives the drink its signature coolness
- 1 oz (30 ml) white chocolate liqueur – adds a smooth, sweet base
- 1 oz (30 ml) heavy cream – gives it a rich, creamy texture
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) peppermint schnapps – for an extra minty kick
- Optional garnish: fresh mint sprig or a mini candy cane
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring spoons
- Martini or coupe glass – chilled if possible
Method
- Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the crème de menthe, white chocolate liqueur, heavy cream, and peppermint schnapps.
- Put the lid on and shake for about 15 seconds—you want it well-mixed and icy cold.
- Strain into your chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish with a mint sprig or a small candy cane if you’d like. Then sip and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Wintergreen
- Chill your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving. It keeps the drink cold and feels extra fancy.
- Don’t over-shake. A gentle but firm shake mixes everything nicely without watering it down.
- If you’re out of peppermint schnapps, just add a drop of peppermint extract—but be careful, a little goes a long way.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the liqueurs ahead of time and store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just add the cream, shake with ice, and pour.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Dairy-free? Use coconut cream or oat milk for a vegan version. Coconut cream adds a lovely tropical undertone.
- Don’t have white chocolate liqueur? Swap in dark chocolate liqueur for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Too sweet? Use a mint-infused simple syrup instead of crème de menthe and adjust to taste.
What It Tastes Like
Think of a creamy peppermint patty in cocktail form. The mint hits first, followed by a smooth, sweet wave of white chocolate and cream. It’s silky on the tongue and finishes with a refreshing coolness. It reminds me of snowy evenings and holiday treats.
Serving Suggestions
This drink works great as a dessert cocktail or a festive after-dinner treat. Here’s what I love pairing it with:
- Dark chocolate truffles – the bitterness balances the drink’s sweetness
- Spiced nuts – their warmth contrasts beautifully with the minty coolness
- Mini cheesecakes – especially peppermint or chocolate-flavored ones
Variations to Try
Mint Chocolate Dream
Swap the white chocolate liqueur for dark chocolate liqueur. The result? A deeper, richer version that’s still smooth and minty.
Coconut Mint Bliss
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It adds a subtle tropical twist and makes the drink dairy-free.
Spiced Wintergreen
Add a dash of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg on top after pouring. It gives the cocktail a warm, cozy vibe—perfect for chilly evenings.
Virgin Wintergreen
Mix 1 oz (30 ml) mint syrup with 1 oz (30 ml) cream and top with a splash of soda water. It’s still creamy and refreshing, minus the alcohol.
FAQs
Can I use fresh mint instead of crème de menthe?
Yes! Muddle a few mint leaves with a little sugar, then mix with cream and chocolate liqueur. It’ll be a bit more herbal and less sweet, but still delicious.
How do I make this vegan?
Use coconut cream or a thick plant-based milk like cashew or oat. Also, make sure your chocolate liqueur is dairy-free—some brands are.
Can I make this in a big batch?
Definitely. Mix all ingredients except cream in a pitcher and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, pour 2.5 oz (75 ml) into a shaker with cream and ice, shake, and serve.
How do I control the sweetness?
Taste as you go! If it’s too sweet, use less crème de menthe or swap it for mint syrup. You can also add a splash of soda to mellow it out.
Is this just a winter drink?
It’s perfect for winter, but honestly, I’ve served it at summer parties too—especially when I want something cool and creamy. It’s like mint chocolate chip ice cream in a glass.
Final Thoughts
The Wintergreen cocktail is one of those drinks that feels special but is simple to make. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails because it always brings a smile—whether it’s the first time you’re trying it or your fiftieth. Don’t be afraid to experiment a little with the flavors and make it your own. Cheers to cozy moments and minty sips!
