How To Make Peppermint Vodka

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 this 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 – and 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 – 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. Sometimes, it can be very time-consuming, 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:

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 grab some online.
  
• Lastly, you have to have vodka, of course! Since you’re adding sugar and mint, I don’t really recommend splurging too much on a fancy vodka. An inexpensive one will be fine!

How To Make Peppermint Vodka

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 two) for yourself – if you’re lucky!

1. First of all, make sure your jars are clean and ready to go! I used 8-ounce jars like these, and they worked perfectly. 

2. In a large stockpot, combine water and sugar over medium heat. Stir continually until liquid becomes clear – this takes approximately 5-7 minutes.

3. 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.

4. Once the peppermint is mixed in with the sugar water, it’s time to add in the vodka! Pour it in, and then stir for 10 seconds or so. When it’s all mixed, you can parcel them out to individual jars. 

5. Pour 8 ounces of peppermint vodka into your mason jars and close lids tightly. Keep in a dark, cool place for 2 weeks, shaking each jar 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 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 the inside of the jar. 

I also bought some plastic animals figurines online, spray painted them gold and glued them on the jar lids to add some glam. Here’s your chance to gift your coworkers with their very own spirit animal. 😛  

I used some faux greenery and cute library cards that I ordered and printed from Etsy to complete my wrapping. I used the cards to write out directions for a few cocktails to make using the peppermint vodka.

What Do You Mix With Peppermint Vodka?

Curious what people can actually do with this DIY minty beverage besides take shots? Here are a few of my favorite ways to use this peppermint-infused vodka! 

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 for every 8 ounces of hot chocolate for a great (and warm) treat. 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 Kahlua and 1 ounce of peppermint vodka. Try adding a little foamed milk on top to impress your friends. 😉

Other Simple DIY Gift Ideas:

Looking for more Christmas gifts for coworkers or friends that don’t require alcohol? Here are a few simple do-it-yourself gift ideas they’ll be sure to love! 

• Easy Essential Oil Candles
• Homemade Lush Copycat Bath Bombs
• DIY Personalized 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!