Just in case you need an excuse to indulge in a dessert cocktail; February 11th has been designated National Peppermint Patty Day. No one seems to know the origin of this “holiday” or exactly how long we've been celebrating it. And while the holiday is supposed to celebrate the chocolate and minty confection, there's no harm in adding a little alcohol.
The Peppermint Patty was first introduced to the public by York Cone Co. but wasn’t sold nationally until the early 70’s. Rumor has it the Peppermint Patty cocktail was created in New York during the late 70’s-early 80’s when decadent cocktails were all the rage.
While the Peppermint Patty candy has never reached the status of Snickers, M&M’s or the Milky Way, the cocktail has an undying cult following of the baby boomers and on the outskirts of the gen x-ers. Creamy, minty, chocolaty and alcoholic, this dessert cocktail is due for a brief comeback even if only for the day.
Peppermint Patty Martini
- 1 oz. Vodka
- 1 oz. Peppermint Schnapps
- 1 oz. Creme de cacao
- 1 oz. Light cream
- Garnish: Maraschino cherry or leftover Christmas candy cane
Mix all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Strain into a martini glass and garnish.
These days, most bartenders are under 25 and have probably never heard of the Peppermint Patty martini let alone tasted one. However, all these ingredients are stock in any bar so if you want one, bring the recipe with you. And if you ask nicely they just might make you one.
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