Can I make Candy Cane Christmas Mocktails ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the half and half, cream soda, simple syrup, and peppermint extract up to a day in advance and store the mixture in the refrigerator. However, for best results, rim the glasses with candy canes just before serving to maintain their festive crunch and appearance.

What can I use if I don’t have peppermint oil or extract?

If you're out of peppermint extract or oil, you can dissolve crushed peppermint candies into the simple syrup beforehand for a natural infusion. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the sweetness and consistency but will still provide that signature minty flavor.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version of this Candy Cane Christmas Mocktail, replace the half and half with a creamy plant-based alternative such as oat milk, almond milk, or coconut cream. Be sure to use unsweetened versions if you're monitoring sugar levels, and shake well before serving for a smooth, creamy texture.

Candy Cane Christmas Mocktails – Best Festive Drink Idea

Name: Candy Cane Christmas Mocktails
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup half and half: provides a rich and creamy base; 12 oz cream soda: adds fizz and sweetness; 4 tsp simple syrup: enhances the overall sweetness; 2–4 drops peppermint oil or extract: gives the drink its signature minty flavor; 2–3 candy canes, crushed: used to rim the glasses and add festive crunch; Additional 4 tsp simple syrup (for rimming glasses): helps crushed candy canes stick to the glass rim

Description

These Candy Cane Christmas Mocktails are a creamy, peppermint-infused holiday drink perfect for both kids and adults. Featuring a festive crushed candy cane rim and a smooth blend of half and half, cream soda, and peppermint extract, this mocktail brings seasonal cheer to any holiday gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup half and half: provides a rich and creamy base
12 oz cream soda: adds fizz and sweetness
4 tsp simple syrup: enhances the overall sweetness
2–4 drops peppermint oil or extract: gives the drink its signature minty flavor
2–3 candy canes, crushed: used to rim the glasses and add festive crunch
Additional 4 tsp simple syrup (for rimming glasses): helps crushed candy canes stick to the glass rim

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Instructions

Prepare your martini glass rims by pouring simple syrup onto a plate and dipping the rim of each glass into it.
Place crushed candy canes on another plate and dip the syrup-coated rims into the crushed candy for a festive edge.
In a small pitcher, combine 1 cup half and half, 12 oz cream soda, 4 tsp simple syrup, and 2–4 drops of peppermint extract or oil. Stir gently to mix.
Pour the prepared mixture into the rimmed martini glasses.
Serve immediately and enjoy the cool, minty flavor of the holiday season.

Notes

Add more peppermint oil for a stronger minty flavor or reduce for a milder taste.
Chill your glasses beforehand for an extra refreshing experience.
Use plant-based milk alternatives like oat or almond milk to make this mocktail dairy-free.
Great for holiday parties, hot cocoa bars, or family-friendly toasts.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drink
Method: Stirred
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 41mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 22mg