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With equal parts white crème de cacao and peppermint schnapps, the Polar Bear Shot is a winsome, icy beverage that indulges wintertime cravings. Of course, you can toss back this chocolate-mint drink to cool off in the heat, too. Decadent and refreshing, it’s the perfect after-dinner treat no matter the time of year.
Bar Tools
- Jigger or small measuring cup
- Cocktail shaker
To serve: Serve in a chilled shot glass.
Ingredients (One Serving)
- ½ oz. white crème de cacao
- ½ oz. peppermint schnapps
To garnish: No adornments necessary.
How to Make
In a cocktail shaker heaped with ice, add the white crème de cacao and peppermint schnapps. Shake for 15 to 20 seconds and then strain into a chilled shot glass. If you’re feeling festive, serve as a holiday drink with mini candy canes, or garnish in the summer with decorative mint sprigs.
Nutrition Facts & ABV
- ABV (alcohol by volume): 11.9%
- Calories: 84
- Total carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Total sugar: 10 gram
For a larger, sippable version, see the Polar Bear Cocktail recipe.
History
We would like to think that one of Santa’s naughty elves concocted the Polar Bear Shot. But alas, there is no evidence suggesting such. Instead, we can only assume that this drink is a stripped-down riff on the Grasshopper cocktail. Invented by Philibert Guichet in 1918 for a cocktail competition in New York City, the Grasshopper was originally made from equal parts crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Electric green and unapologetically sweet, this Prohibition-era elixir inspired many drinks in the decades to follow, including the Peppermint Paddy and the After Eight.
FAQs
What does the Polar Bear Shot taste like?
Imagine an Andes Chocolate Mint tripped and fell into a bottle of liquor. That’s what this after-dinner digestif tastes like.
Can I use crème de menthe instead of peppermint schnapps?
If you’re in a pinch, crème de menthe will work. The shot will just be sweeter and less boozy. It will also be an iridescent green.
What type of crème de cacao should I use?
To preserve the shot’s crystal clear color, you need to use white crème de cacao. We prefer Giffard Cacao Blanc Liqueur. With robust dark chocolate notes and a buttery mouthfeel, this French liqueur pairs swimmingly with peppermint schnapps. It’s also delicious in a Chocolate Martini.
Are there any variations of the Polar Bear Shot?
Perhaps the most popular recipe variation calls for adding ½ oz. of vodka. A vodka-based Polar Bear Shot amps up the shot’s liquor content while toning down its sweetness.
