Peppermint Cold Brew Recipe

Make your holidays merrier with a peppermint cold brew recipe: easy steps, festive twists & nutrition info

By Matt Simmons

If you’re craving a festive coffeehouse drink but want to stay cozy at home, this peppermint cold brew recipe is a perfect solution. It’s all about blending smooth cold brew coffee with the invigorating taste of peppermint, resulting in an energizing holiday beverage that hits the spot on a warm afternoon or any time of the year. Plus, by making it yourself, you’ll save money compared to daily coffee runs and get to control ingredients like sweetness and creaminess.

Ingredients

1 cup cold brew coffee (you can use homemade or store-bought)
1–2 tablespoons peppermint syrup or ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
¼ cup half and half (feel free to use your favorite milk or dairy-free alternative)
Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (optional, for garnish)
Sugar or sweetener of your choice (optional)

Directions

Fill a tall glass with ice.
Pour cold brew coffee into the glass, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
Stir in your peppermint syrup or peppermint extract. Taste and add any additional sweetener if you like a sweeter sip.
Slowly pour the half and half over the coffee, allowing it to swirl for a marbled effect.
Top it off with whipped cream if you’re feeling indulgent.
Lightly sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on the whipped cream or directly into the coffee for extra flavor.

Tips & variations

Another peppermint option: If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, consider using a store-bought peppermint coffee sauce like the Torani peppermint coffee sauce, which can be purchased for about $6 and typically yields around a dozen cups of festive coffee.
Candy choice: Chalky peppermint candies gradually dissolve in your coffee, intensifying the flavor. They also avoid the sticky mess that some candy canes might leave behind.
Switch up the syrup: Monin Peppermint Syrup is often praised for having a refreshing yet mild taste. It’s also allergen-free, gluten-free, and kosher as of 2024, making it a great fit for various dietary needs.
Dairy-free twist: For a lighter option, skip the half and half and use almond milk, oat milk, or another plant-based favorite.
Make it a mocha: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a spoonful of cocoa powder to transform this drink into a minty mocha cold brew.

Nutrition facts

This recipe’s nutritional profile varies depending on the amount of cream, sweeteners, and toppings used. On average, a serving with half and half and whipped cream can have around:

150–200 calories
6–8 grams of fat
20–25 grams of carbohydrates
2–4 grams of protein

These numbers are approximate and may change if you use different products or skip the whipped cream.

Final thoughts

This peppermint cold brew recipe is perfect for a holiday get-together, a quick afternoon pick-me-up, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. You get the best of both worlds with the coolness of cold brew and the bright pop of peppermint. Plus, it saves you the trip to the coffee shop and ensures every sip matches your personal preferences.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What if I don’t have peppermint syrup?
You can use half a teaspoon of peppermint extract instead. Start small and add more if needed, since extracts can be quite potent.
Can I use hot coffee?
Yes. Although it wouldn’t be a “cold brew,” you can replace the cold brew with hot coffee for a peppermint-flavored latte-like beverage.
How can I store leftover cold brew?
Keep any extra cold brew in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Mix it with peppermint just before serving for the freshest taste.