Easy DIY peppermint vodka is a fun gift to make this season for white elephant parties or as a Christmas gift for coworkers or friends. This version is so simple! Plus, learn recipes to make with peppermint vodka like a peppermint martini.
I’m so excited to share this recipe with you all – if you’ve been stressing about what to give as an inexpensive, yet awesome gift for an upcoming festivity, stress no longer, my friend. I’ve got just the trick up my sleeve for you: DIY peppermint vodka.
If you’re overwhelmed about infusing your own alcohol, don’t be! It’s seriously easy, but it also makes you look really cool. 😉
The Best Gift for Coworkers
A few years ago when I was in the advertising industry I had the opportunity to make some Christmas gifts for coworkers. If you’ve ever seen Mad Men, then you know that marketing and advertising people like a good drink (or two!).
I decided to infuse my own DIY peppermint vodka as a gift for my team—and it was a HUGE hit! In fact, one coworker shared some with his girlfriend and she liked it so much that they offered to pay me to make them more!
Plus, it upped my cool factor in the department, which is always a good thing, no matter what line of work you’re in.
Just be prepared that it will take 2 weeks or more to infuse, so NOW would be the perfect time to whip up a batch of your own to give as Christmas gifts for coworkers you love. Even if you are looking for a last-minute gift idea, you can still make this — just label it with clear instructions not to open for two weeks!
Easy DIY Peppermint Vodka
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We can all agree that making homemade Christmas gifts for adults is more than challenging. Usually, its very time consuming too, but this DIY peppermint vodka is so fun and EASY! Plus, it’s a budget-friendly gift for anyone on your list too.
I’m going to teach you exactly how to make peppermint vodka—just follow these steps and you’ll be fine.
3-Ingredient DIY Peppermint Vodka
There are only three simple ingredients needed to infuse this minty vodka. First of all, you’ll need sugar. Just your basic granulated white version will do.
Secondly, peppermint extract is what gives the vodka that fresh mint taste. Here’s where it’s worth spending a little more money – you want a really good, high-quality extract if possible. Look for it in the baking department of most grocery stores, or just grab peppermint extract off Amazon.
Lastly, you need vodka of course! Since you’re adding sugar and mint, I don’t really recommend splurging too much on a fancy vodka. Just an inexpensive one should be fine!
How to Make Peppermint Vodka Step by Step
You can customize as needed, but the peppermint vodka recipes below will show you how to fill 12 half pint-sized mason jars of your very own peppermint vodka drinks. You may even have enough left over to have a jar (or 2) for yourself if you’re lucky. 😉
First of all, make sure your jars are clean and ready to go! I used 8 oz jars like these << and they worked perfectly.
In a large stock pot combine water and sugar over medium heat, stirring continually until liquid becomes clear. This takes (approximately 5-7 minutes).
Remove the pot from heat and wait until the liquid cools (this is important). Once it’s fully cooled, add the peppermint extract and stir well.
Once the peppermint is mixed in with the sugar water, it’s time to add in the vodka! Pour it in then stir the peppermint vodka for 10 seconds or so. When it’s all mixed, you can parcel them out to individual jars.
Pour 8 ounces of liquid into your mason jars and close lids tightly. Keep in a dark, cool place for 2 weeks, shaking jars for about 10 seconds every 3 days or so.
Packaging Ideas for DIY Peppermint Vodka
Yes, you could give this gift in a plain mason jar and still make quite the impression. However, if you really want to impress your coworkers with a handmade Christmas gift, decorate their jars!
One of the easiest ways to do this is to simply paint the jar lids. I did mine with a flat blue paint I had leftover from another project. Make sure to only get the paint on the outside and not inside the jar.
I also picked up some plastic animals from the craft store, and spray painted them gold, then glued them on the jar lids to add some glam. Here’s your chance to gift your coworkers with their very own spirit animal. 😛
To complete my wrapping, I used some faux greenery, and these >> cute library cards I ordered on Etsy. I used the cards to write out directions for a few cocktails to make using the peppermint vodka (see more info below!).
What do you mix with Peppermint Vodka?
Curious what people can actually do with peppermint vodka, besides just take shots? Here are a few of my favorite ways to use this yummy DIY!
Spiked Hot Chocolate
If you’re looking for a little extra spirit in your hot chocolate add an ounce or two of peppermint vodka and you won’t be disappointed. Use a ratio of 1 ounce of vodka to every 8 ounces of hot chocolate for a great warm cocktail. Marshmallows and/or whipped cream optional!
Peppermint Martini
Are you looking to add a little James Bond to your Christmas spirit? Try adding 2 ounces of peppermint vodka with 2 ounces of half and half, and 4 ounces of white chocolate liqueur–you’ll have yourself one yummy cocktail. Just remember… shaken not stirred.
Buzzed Brew
For a boozy brunch mix 8 ounces of your favorite coffee with 1 ounce of Kahula and 1 ounce of peppermint vodka. Try adding a little foamed milk on top to impress your friends. 😉
Other Simple Do it Yourself Gift Ideas:
Looking for more Christmas gifts for coworkers or friends that aren’t alcohol? Here are a few simple DIY gift ideas they’ll be sure to love!
- These simple and thoughtful essential oil candles make great gifts for the people in your life.
- These Lush copycat bath bombs will make any spa-loving fan more than happy.
- Here’s a cute, inexpensive idea: DIY Sharpie mugs!
For ideas for every gift-giving occasion take a look at my Easy DIY Gifts Pinterest board. I’m sure there will be something that works great for you!
Equipment
- 12 8 oz jars like these
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups water distilled or filtered
- 3 cups white sugar
- 2 tbsp peppermint extract good quality
- 9 cups vodka inexpensive
Instructions
- Heat water and sugar over medium heat until fully diluted.
- Let mixture cool, then add peppermint extract, stir.
- Add vodka to the mixture, stir.
- Pour into an airtight container (a mason jar works well).
- Keep it in a dark, cool place for 2 weeks. Make sure to shake it for 10 seconds every 3 days or so to mix fully.
Hi, Tania! Wow, I absolutely love this idea! It’s way simpler than I expected. I’ve seen little animals painted like that and have always wanted to give it a try. Thanks for the great inspiration, pinning for later! Have a great week! Oh, and I love your photos!
What a fun idea! Thanks for sharing at the Funtastic Friday Blog Hop!