The Baileys Peppermint Cream is a festive, indulgent hot cocktail (more of a spiked drink than a classic shaken cocktail). It combines Baileys Irish Cream—specifically the limited-edition Baileys with a Hint of Mint Chocolate (a creamy Irish cream liqueur infused with mint chocolate flavour)—with hot chocolate for a cozy, dessert-like treat.
It’s especially popular around the holidays (Christmas and winter) as a warming, minty-chocolatey nightcap that tastes like a boozy peppermint hot cocoa or an adult version of a candy cane treat.
Ingredients (serves 1)
- 2 oz (about 60 ml) Baileys with a Hint of Mint Chocolate (or Baileys Original Irish Cream if you can’t find the mint version)
- 4 oz (about 120 ml) hot chocolate (prepared however you like it—store-bought mix, homemade, etc.)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Crushed candy cane or peppermint pieces (for garnish)
- Optional: Fresh mint leaf for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare your hot chocolate and pour it into a large coffee mug or heat-safe glass.
- Add the Baileys and stir gently to combine.
- Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
- Sprinkle crushed candy cane over the whipped cream.
- Garnish with a mint leaf if desired.
Serve immediately while hot. It’s creamy, rich, with a subtle mint-chocolate balance from the Baileys and extra peppermint kick from the candy cane.
Variations and Similar Drinks
- If you don’t have the mint chocolate Baileys, many people make similar drinks by mixing regular Baileys Original with a splash of peppermint schnapps or crème de menthe, then adding it to hot chocolate.
- For a colder version, people shake Baileys with peppermint schnapps (and sometimes vodka) over ice for a Baileys Peppermint Martini—a chilled, creamy, minty martini often drizzled with chocolate syrup or garnished with a candy cane rim.
- Other twists include adding coffee liqueur for a peppermint mocha vibe or using it in shots/blended drinks.
The drink is straightforward, quick to make, and very crowd-pleasing for holiday parties or a relaxing evening by the fire. The mint cuts through the richness of the cream and chocolate nicely without being overpowering.
