As the summer season approaches, people start drifting towards refreshing and hydrating cocktails and mocktails. Be it the icy classical mojito or the beach’s go-to margarita, these beverages have the potential to beat the heat and help you unwind, especially if you had a long and hot day.
If you, too, like to have a glass of cooling drinks in the summer, peppermint is one of the most commonly used ingredients. But how do you take your usual peppermint spirits to the next level? Obviously, with some more crushed ice and impeccable garnishes and toppings. Here are some of the best garnishes that you can pair with your peppermint drinks.
Crushed Candy
Crushed candies are the little elements that can add some crunch and sweetness to your peppermint cocktail. The minty taste of your iced cocktail or even spiked hot peppermint tea will be perfectly balanced with some crushed candy garnish. You can decorate your glass by covering the rim with the candy mixture or sprinkle some on the beverage as per your preference and make the most out of your summer drink.
Chocolate Shavings
If you have a sweet tooth, adding some chocolate shavings to your cocktail can go a long way. Firstly, you’ll get a sugary kick from the drink. Secondly, you can enjoy the flavours of chocolatey goodness in the glass filled with a refreshing dose of peppermint cocktail. Chocolate shavings can also be used as a topping if you’re making a similar peppermint mocktail for your kids or friends who are avoiding alcohol to enhance their drinks.
Whipped Cream
Whipped cream is an all-time favourite garnish that complements the strong flavours of a cocktail infused with peppermint. After making your basic cocktail, for example, with white rum or whiskey cream and extracts of peppermint, you can add a layer of piped whipped cream. To ensure that the peppermint flavour makes an impact, you can either take some chopped peppermint to put on the whipped cream or mix its extract in the cream.
Marshmallows
If you’re planning a party, a get-together, or just pampering yourself, you can garnish your peppermint cocktail with some marshmallows. The soft and squishy treats will add more depth to your drink. They will not only visually enhance your glasses, but the peppermint flavour will complement the sugary soft marshmallows. You can even choose to add flavoured marshmallows as per your preference and have an indulgent summer drink.
Candied Cranberries
You might already know the magic cranberries add to a cocktail. But you cannot even imagine what candied cranberries create when added to a peppermint cocktail. The zesty cranberries with a minty beverage would literally be everything you’d need to unwind on the days when summer is taking the most out of you. Just don’t forget to add crushed ice, and you’ll thank yourself for making the cocktail.