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As the holiday season draws near and the air fills with a festive cheer, there’s nothing quite like toasting to the magic of the moment with a drink that embodies the spirit of the season. The Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail is a delightful concoction that marries the refreshing coolness of peppermint with the bubbly effervescence of Prosecco, turning an ordinary gathering into a sparkling celebration.

The preparation is a breeze—just five minutes of your time will yield a drink that dazzles both the eyes and taste buds. Picture this: the bright red and white rim of crushed starlight mints glimmering in the candlelight, inviting your guests to indulge in a sip of pure joy. From cozy family get-togethers to festive parties with friends, this cocktail is not only easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone craving more. So, put on your favorite holiday playlist, and let’s spread some cheer, one Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail at a time!

Why is Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail a Must-Try?

Simplicity: With just three ingredients and five minutes of prep, this cocktail is incredibly easy to make, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities.

Festive Flair: The vibrant red and white rim created from crushed starlight mints not only adds a pop of color but also brings a charming holiday spirit to any gathering.

Refreshing Taste: The combination of peppermint schnapps and sparkling Prosecco creates a refreshing yet indulgent drink that is perfect for celebrating.

Versatile: Ideal for holiday parties, family gatherings, or even cozy nights in, this cocktail can be enjoyed at any festive occasion.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its unique flavor profile and stunning presentation, expect compliments and smiles from every guest.

Prepare to make memories and toast to good times with this delightful Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail!

Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need!

For the Rim

Peppermint schnapps – Not just for dipping; it adds a sweet peppermint kick to the drink.
Finely crushed starlight mints – These offer a festive crunch and that irresistible minty essence.

For the Cocktail

Prosecco – Use a good-quality sparkling wine for a bubbly celebration!

How to Make Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail

Prepare the Rim: Pour a bit of peppermint schnapps onto a small plate. This sweet addition will help the crushed mints stick to your glass, creating a festive look.
Crush the Mints: Gather your finely crushed starlight mints on a second small plate. The vibrant colors will add a delightful touch to your cocktail’s presentation.
Dip the Glass: Gently dip the rim of each Champagne glass into the schnapps, then roll it in the crushed mints. Aim for an even coating, which will make each sip wonderfully minty!
Mix the Cocktail: Pour an ounce of peppermint schnapps into each prepared glass. Top it off with the sparkling Prosecco, allowing the bubbles to tantalize and refresh!

Optional: Garnish with an extra mint sprig for a beautiful finishing touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail?

As you set the mood for a festive gathering, these delightful pairings will elevate your Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail and create an unforgettable holiday experience.

Finger Sandwiches: Perfectly bite-sized and easy to eat, they balance the sweetness of your cocktail with savory flavors.
Chocolate Truffles: Indulge in rich, velvety chocolate to complement the peppermint, providing a luxurious treat alongside each sip.
Cheese Platter: A mix of creamy brie and sharp cheddar offers a delightful contrast to the cocktail’s refreshing sweetness. Pair with crackers for a crunchy finish!
Spiced Nuts: A crunchy, slightly salty snack that enhances the cocktail’s sweetness and keeps guests happily munching.
Holiday Cookies: Festive cookies, glazed with icing or sprinkled with sugar, add a touch of sweetness and a cheerful spirit to your gathering. Each bite harmonizes beautifully with the drink!
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing, non-alcoholic option, serve fizzy water alongside the cocktail, allowing guests to cleanse their palate between sips.

These pairings not only complement the Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your celebration!

Make Ahead Options

These Candy Cane Champagne Cocktails are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the glass rims—dipping them in peppermint schnapps and rolling in crushed starlight mints—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the coated glasses in the refrigerator, ensuring they’re covered to keep them fresh. When it’s time to serve, pour an ounce of peppermint schnapps into each glass and top with Prosecco for that festive fizz. This way, you’ll have an elegant and delicious cocktail ready to impress your guests without any last-minute fuss!

How to Store and Freeze Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail

Fridge: Store any leftover Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 1 day to maintain its fizz and flavor.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this cocktail because the carbonation will be lost and the texture will change. Instead, enjoy it fresh!

Rim Storage: If you have leftover crushed mints, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, away from moisture, for up to 1 week.

Reheating: Not applicable, as this cocktail is best served cold and fresh—enjoy it immediately for the ultimate experience!

Tips for the Best Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail

Rim Consideration: Use fresh schnapps for the rim; older schnapps may not adhere well, resulting in a less festive appearance and flavor.
Mint Grinding: Ensure the starlight mints are finely crushed; larger pieces may fall off and dilute the taste. A food processor works wonders!
Sipping Strategy: Serve the Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail immediately after mixing to enjoy the sparkling bubbles at their best; letting it sit may dull the effervescence.
Quality Matters: Opt for a good-quality Prosecco or sparkling wine; it makes a significant difference in flavor and overall experience.
Balance Sweetness: Taste your cocktail before serving; if it’s too sweet, adjusting the schnapps quantity can help achieve your desired flavor balance.

Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail to make it even more delightful!

Chocolate Mint: Add a splash of crème de menthe for a rich, chocolatey twist. This variation layers flavor beautifully, perfect for chocolate lovers.
Mocktail Delight: Substitute Prosecco with sparkling apple cider for a festive non-alcoholic option. It captures the essence of celebration without the booze!
Spicy Kick: Mix in a few dashes of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring warmth to the frosty notes of peppermint. The spice enhances the drink’s holiday theme wonderfully.
Fruit Infusion: Toss in a few fresh raspberries or pomegranate seeds just before serving for a burst of color and additional flavor. The freshness complements the mint perfectly.
Berry Burst: Swap out peppermint schnapps for raspberry liqueur. This creates a fruity cocktail with a unique and vibrant taste—a twist that’ll surprise your guests!
Coconut Dream: Use coconut sparkling water instead of Prosecco for a tropical twist on the classic. The refreshing coconut flavor blends beautifully with the peppermint.
Herbal Essence: Infuse your schnapps with fresh herbs, such as basil or rosemary, for an aromatic touch and a gourmet flare. The herbal notes elevate the cocktail experience.
Extra Bubbly: For an even fizzier experience, mix in a splash of club soda to your cocktail just before serving. The extra bubbles add a fun texture!

Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right peppermint schnapps?
Absolutely! When choosing peppermint schnapps, look for a brand with a strong peppermint flavor and a good balance of sweetness. Some popular options include Rumple Minze for a more intense taste or Dekuyper for a sweeter profile. This will ensure your Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail has that delicious minty kick!

How long can I store leftover Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail?
Very! You can store any leftover Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 1 day. However, the carbonation will diminish quickly, so it’s best enjoyed fresh! Aim to consume it within that time frame for the best flavor and fizz.

Can I freeze the Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail?
Not recommended! Freezing the Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail will result in loss of carbonation and alter its delightful texture. Instead, whip it up fresh as needed; that’s where the magic truly lies!

What should I do if the mints don’t stick to the glass?
Don’t worry, we all have those moments! If the crushed mints aren’t sticking, try dipping the glass rim into the schnapps again and rolling it in the crushed mints while the schnapps is still wet. If your schnapps has been sitting out a while, opt for a new bottle to ensure it’s tacky enough for the mints to adhere well.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Candy Cane Champagne Cocktail?
Absolutely! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, ensure that the peppermint schnapps and Prosecco are gluten-free if needed. Additionally, for those who may be allergic to peppermint, consider using a flavored syrup or non-alcoholic sparkling beverage as an alternative base, although it won’t match the minty freshness. Always check labels before serving!