The last time I walked through a holiday market, the scents of peppermint and sugar swirled through the air, pulling me into a festive reverie. Inspired by those delightful memories, I’ve created these Easy 2-Ingredient Candy Cane Shots, a simple and fun way to infuse your gatherings with that holiday magic. With just peppermint disks and unflavored vodka, you can whip up these creamy, refreshing shots that are guaranteed to become a hit at your next Christmas party. Not only are they a breeze to make, but these peppermint vodka shots also bring a nostalgic comfort that will have everyone raising their glasses in cheer. So, why not treat your friends and family to a drink that captures the season’s spirit? Let’s dive into the fun of making these festive shots!

Why Are Candy Cane Shots So Popular?

Festive, Fun Flavor: The intense peppermint taste evokes holiday cheer, making every sip a celebration.

Easy to Make: With just two ingredients, preparation is quick and hassle-free—ideal for busy hosts looking to impress.

Great for Sharing: Perfectly portioned for holiday gatherings, these shots encourage toasts and laughter among friends and family.

Versatile Options: Experiment with different candies for unique flavor profiles, or add festive touches like food coloring for extra flair.

Nostalgic Appeal: These shots capture the essence of Christmas, reminding everyone of the joy and warmth of the season. Join the festive fun and serve these delightful Candy Cane Shots!

Candy Cane Shots Ingredients

• Get ready for a festive treat!

For the Infusion

Peppermint Disks – These candies provide that classic, strong peppermint flavor essential for your Candy Cane Shots. Substitution: Any brand of peppermint candy works well!
Unflavored Vodka – Acts as the perfect base to extract the delicious flavors from the peppermint disks. Substitution: A neutral spirit can be used, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

Now that you have your ingredients lined up, you’re one step closer to pouring these delightful shots and sharing the holiday spirit with those you love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Candy Cane Shots

Step 1: Prepare the Jar
Begin by gathering a clean 16 oz mason jar. Unwrap and place 10 peppermint disks at the bottom of the jar, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This will be the base for your Candy Cane Shots, providing the essential peppermint flavor.

Step 2: Add the Vodka
Carefully pour approximately 375 ml of unflavored vodka into the mason jar, covering the peppermint disks completely. As you pour, watch for the bubbles to rise, indicating the vodkas is mixing with the peppermint. This step sets the foundation for your festive shot infusion.

Step 3: Seal and Shake
Tightly seal the mason jar with its lid to prevent any leaks. Gently give the jar a slight shake to help the peppermint disks begin dissolving in the vodka. After shaking, turn the jar upside down carefully for a few moments, letting the candies sit in the vodka to enhance flavors.

Step 4: Refrigerate the Infusion
Place the sealed mason jar in the refrigerator for 5 days, allowing the peppermint to infuse into the vodka thoroughly. During this time, check to see the disks dissolve gradually, turning the liquid a vibrant minty hue. This infusion period is crucial for achieving rich Candy Cane Shots.

Step 5: Final Mixing
After 5 days, take the jar out of the refrigerator and turn it upside down again for about an hour. Give it a good shake to ensure all ingredients are well combined. The mixture should look smooth and well-blended, with no lingering white residue at the bottom—this is when your Candy Cane Shots are at their best.

Step 6: Serve Chilled
Once combined, pour the infused peppermint vodka into shot glasses. Serve immediately for the freshest experience, ensuring your guests enjoy the revitalizing chill of these Candy Cane Shots. For added presentation, consider garnishing with a mini candy cane, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for holiday celebrations.

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Shots

Fridge: Store your infused Candy Cane Shots in an airtight container or a sealed mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. The flavors will continue to develop over time.

Freezer: While it’s not necessary to freeze these shots, you can store them in the freezer if you prefer an extra icy drink. They can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating: There’s no need to heat these shots; simply serve them chilled for the best experience. If you’ve frozen them, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Presentation: When serving, consider shaking the container gently before pouring to ensure the peppermint flavor is evenly distributed. Enjoy your festive Candy Cane Shots!

Candy Cane Shots: Fun Variations

Customize your Candy Cane Shots to make them uniquely yours with these playful twists and swaps that will delight your holiday guests!

Colorful Delight: Add festive food coloring to the vodka before serving. A few drops of red or green can make your shots pop and look extra exciting.
Mint Chocolate Twist: Replace peppermint disks with chocolate peppermint candies for a delicious minty chocolate flavor. This variation brings a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the refreshing peppermint.
Spicy Peppermint: For a surprising kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the vodka. It gives a warm contrast to the icy peppermint, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.
Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half after the infusion for a smooth, creamy texture. This decadent take makes for a delightful dessert shot!
Boozy Layering: Layer your shots by first pouring a bit of white chocolate liqueur, followed by the infused peppermint vodka. The result is a stunning visual and a multi-dimensional flavor experience.
Sugar Rim: Dip the edges of your shot glasses in melted chocolate and then in crushed peppermint for a sweet, crunchy rim. This adds an extra festive touch that enhances every sip.
Coconut Variation: Substitute the vodka with coconut rum for a tropical twist on these classic shots. This fruity pivot creates a delightful summer holiday vibe!
Herbal Infusion: Try adding a dash of mint extract to the vodka for an intensified mint flavor. Just be cautious with the amount; a little goes a long way!

With these variations, the possibilities are endless! Get creative and explore the joyful world of your own Candy Cane Shots while enjoying some delightful holiday cheer.

Expert Tips for Candy Cane Shots

Infusion Check: Regularly check the infusion after a few days; longer infusion may intensify the peppermint flavor, enhancing your Candy Cane Shots.
Seal Tightly: Make sure jars are tightly sealed during shaking to prevent spillage and ensure a smooth mixture.
Adjust Peppermint Strength: If you desire a stronger mint flavor, simply add a few extra peppermint disks to your vodka before sealing the jar.
Chill Well: Always serve your Candy Cane Shots chilled for that invigorating refreshment; it truly enhances the festive experience.
Creative Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of candies or add festive food coloring to make the shots even more vibrant and appealing!

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Shots are perfect for busy hosts looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can infuse the vodka with peppermint disks up to 5 days in advance, allowing the flavors to develop for that festive minty punch. Simply follow the steps to prepare the jars and let them refrigerate for the full infusion period. After 5 days, just shake the mixture once more and then pour into shot glasses when you’re ready to serve. For ultimate freshness, keep the infused vodka in the fridge, where it can stay delicious for up to 1 month. This way, your Candy Cane Shots will be just as delightful, making your holiday gatherings a breeze to manage!

What to Serve with Candy Cane Shots

Elevate your holiday gathering by pairing these festive shots with delightful dishes and treats that embody the season’s spirit.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes add a rich, buttery texture that balances the sharpness of peppermint shots.
Spicy Meatballs: Juicy, spiced meatballs bring a savory kick, creating a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the Candy Cane Shots.
Garlic Herb Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized flavors of seasonal veggies provide freshness and warmth, perfect for enhancing holiday festivities.
Peppermint Bark Brownies: Indulge in these chewy brownies topped with mint-infused chocolate; they’ll echo the flavors of your shots in a delicious dessert.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink’s creamy richness pairs wonderfully to create a cozy experience alongside the shots.
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy, vibrant cranberry sauce on a cheese platter adds a festive touch, balancing the drinks’ sweetness with its tartness.
Hot Chocolate: For a warm contrast, serve rich hot chocolate alongside, making for a comforting treat for all ages.
Mulled Wine: This spiced wine offers aromatic flavors that mingle beautifully with peppermint, inviting festive cheer to your gathering.
Mini Puff Pastry Bites: These flaky bites can be filled with sweet or savory fillings, providing a delightful textural contrast to the refreshing shots.

Candy Cane Shots Recipe FAQs

What kind of peppermint disks should I use?
Absolutely! Any brand of peppermint candy works well for these Candy Cane Shots. Just make sure they provide a strong peppermint flavor to infuse into the vodka—look for those classic red and white striped ones for the most festive touch.

How should I store my Candy Cane Shots?
You can store your infused Candy Cane Shots in a sealed mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. This duration allows the flavors to develop even further, giving you that delightful peppermint kick at every sip! Just ensure it’s airtight to keep the infusion fresh.

Can I freeze these shots for later use?
Very! While freezing isn’t required, you can store the infused vodka in the freezer for up to 3 months if you prefer an icy drink. Just remember to let them sit out for a few minutes at room temperature before serving to achieve the best texture.

What if I have some leftover peppermint residue at the bottom of the jar?
No worries if you see residue! Simply give the jar a good shake before pouring your shots to ensure everything is well mixed. If there’s a significant amount, try adding a few extra peppermint disks during the infusion process for a stronger flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for Candy Cane Shots?
Absolutely, it’s important to keep in mind that these shots are alcohol-based. If you’re catering to guests who need to avoid alcohol for health reasons, you can make a non-alcoholic version by mimicking the infusion process with peppermint extract and flavored sparkling water for a celebratory feel without the spirits!

How can I enhance the presentation of my Candy Cane Shots?
For a festive flair, consider garnishing your shot glasses with mini candy canes or even drizzling some chocolate syrup inside them before pouring in the shots. This adds a visual treat and a delicious twist to the experience!