Candy Cane Cooler
 
Kick off your holiday party with this candy-inspired cocktail made with mint-infused vodka.
Dovetailing Tip: Use the mint infused vodka that you prepared on day 1 in todays cooler. 
Prep Time:
Cook Time:
Total Time:
Ingredients:
| 1 tablespoon | crushed candy cane or peppermint candy | 
| 1 1/2 ounce | mint-infused vodka, recipe follows | 
| 1/2 ounce | b&b (benedictine and brandy) | 
| 1/2 ounce | half-and-half | 
| ice | |
| stick | peppermint | 
| sprig | mint for garnish | 
| 2 cups | fresh mint leaves, de-stemmed | 
| 1 bottle | quality vodka | 
Directions:
Place crushed candy cane bits into pint glass. Muddle the candy cane slightly, breaking up the bigger pieces. Do not over-muddle into a powder. Add vodka, brandy and half-and-half and stir. Pour into a shaker with ice. Shake lightly to chill and strain into old-fashioned glass full of ice. Add a peppermint stick and stir. Garnish with a mint sprig.
Thoroughly wash mint leaves and place in a decanter or jar. Empty vodka into container and muddle slightly to release the essential oils. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 3 days - longer if you want a stronger taste.
Source: foodnetwork.com
