This holiday season, I’m determined to be the best hostess I can be, even if that means just hosting for me! (Because who’s more important than #1?) I find that simple things like a decorative corner, a lovingly prepared meal, or a delicious cocktail add a special touch to the average day and allow me to enjoy my home so much more. So I decided to make my version of a holiday classic: The peppermint martini—also known as the peppermintini.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Peppermint cocktail mix

• Vanilla vodka (I opted for expresso vanilla vodka)

• White chocolate liqueur

• Peppermints

Step one: Crush your peppermints. 3 or 4 mints pulsed briefly in a blender will get the job done! (Picture above was my first attempt when I tried crushing the peppermints without a blender, don’t do that to yourself.) You’ll use the crushed candy for the rim of your glass. I used a splash of the peppermint mixer to moisten the rim of the martini glass to allow the peppermint to stick.

Step two: Add 1 part peppermint mixer, 1 part vanilla vodka, and 1 part white chocolate liqueur to your cocktail shaker to blend. Use two parts mixer if you want to make a less potent cocktail.

Step three: Pour into your martini glass and enjoy!

It’s as simple as that. Very little work, but so much reward. Sip feeling like the cute Christmas hostess you are! Enjoy.

Cheers,

Kindra Moné