Crème de Menthe vs Peppermint Schnapps: Key Differences + 5 Cocktails to Try

Mint is a delicious and refreshing flavor that can be found in many different types of food, drink, and cosmetics. It’s also a popular ingredient in cocktails! In this blog post we will explore two liqueurs made with the mint herb: Creme de menthe vs peppermint schnapps. We will take an in-depth look at what they are made with, how they taste side by side, and some cocktail recipes to make that showcase these drinks.

What is creme de menthe?

Creme de menthe is a type of white liqueur made from peppermint oil, sugar, and alcohol to create a sweet mint liqueur. It has a light flavor that’s not too sweet or bitter with just the right amount of minty flavor to it. This colorless spirit can be enjoyed in many different cocktails like the Grasshopper.

Crème de menthe is a refreshing white liqueur that was first developed by Emile Giffard in 1885. After creating the clear and refined drink he tested it on customers at “Grand Hotel” in Angers, which resulted with great success!

There is also a green version known as green creme de menthe which is slightly different because it is made with a higher alcohol content. This type of creme de menthe will have more herbal flavors alongside the peppermint taste and can be used in many cocktails. 

Unless colour is an issue, you can mostly use the two interchangeably.

What Does Crème de Menthe Taste Like?

Crème de menthe delivers a cooling, refreshing mint flavor that’s noticeably sweeter and more refined than eating fresh mint leaves. The taste hits your palate with an initial burst of peppermint that’s similar to high-quality mint chocolate chip ice cream, but without the chocolate.

The liqueur has a syrupy, almost velvety texture that coats your mouth with a pleasant coolness. You’ll notice subtle vanilla undertones alongside the dominant mint flavor, which gives it a dessert-like quality. Think of it as the liquid version of an After Eight mint – elegant, smooth, and sophisticated rather than sharp or medicinal.

White crème de menthe tends to have a cleaner, purer mint taste that lets the peppermint shine through. Green crème de menthe often carries slightly more herbal notes with hints of spearmint, giving it a more complex flavor profile. Both versions leave a refreshing, clean finish that lingers pleasantly without being overwhelming.

The sweetness level is quite high compared to other spirits. If you’ve ever had a York Peppermint Pattie or a candy cane dissolved in your mouth, you’ll recognize that same balance of mint and sugar. This makes crème de menthe perfect for dessert cocktails but can be too sweet for some palates when served neat.

Unless colour is an issue, you can mostly use the two interchangeably.

White Creme de Menthe brands

Giffard Menthe-Pastille 

There is something strange about this liquor. It starts off with a taste that is kind of like earthy. But it goes away after a short while and you can taste peppermint and some citrus. There is also a mild chocolate-vanilla note on the finish. This liquor is surprisingly complex, and it can hold its own when mixed with other spirits in cocktails. 48 proof.

Tempus Fugit Creme de Menthe 

This liqueur has a strong flavour from the pot distillation. It smells like white whiskey, which is made from potatoes. There are lots of citrus fruit flavors on the palate, which makes the mint flavor less strong. The finish is cleansing and not as minty as you would expect. It’s better in cocktails. 56 proof. 

Bols White Creme de Menthe 

This liquor has a mild and easygoing character. Against a peppermint background, it has a hint of vanilla that screams loudly when you add it to a cocktail like a Grasshopper. 60 proof.

Arrow White Creme de Menthe 

This tastes somewhat fruitier than Bols’s, with a hint of apple sauce, yet it’s completely safe and innocent in the grand scheme of things. This grasshopper was the least interesting of the white creme de menthe options. 30 proof. 

Green Creme de Menthe brands

Bols Green Creme de Menthe 

The deep bluish-green color of this liquor is very minty. It tastes like spearmint and it feels like it is cleansing your breath. The body of the liquor is warming and rounded and it is stronger in terms of ABV than the other greens.

I liked this green creme de menthe because it had a clearer mint flavor. The other two had more of a chocolate flavor, which I didn’t like as much. 60 proof.

Gaetano Green Creme de Menthe 

Gaetano has a color that is somewhat brighter than Bols so great for vibrant green drink recipes. It is also more transparent. This liqueur tastes like chocolate and vanilla. The sweet elements make it taste like a dessert. It also has a cocoa taste to it. 30 proof.

Arrow Green Creme de Menthe

Arrow’s version of this spirit tastes very similar to Gaetano’s, but it is thicker in consistency and has a slightly different color. These two versions might be the same exact drink. 30 proof. 

Crème de Menthe Substitutes & Alternatives

Sometimes you need a minty kick in your cocktail but don’t have crème de menthe on hand. Here are the best substitutes for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

Alcoholic Substitutes

Peppermint Schnapps is the most obvious swap since it delivers that same mint flavor. However, it’s less sweet and has a stronger alcohol bite. Use a 1:1 ratio but add a touch of simple syrup (about 1/4 teaspoon per ounce) to match the sweetness level of crème de menthe. This works brilliantly in cocktails like the Grasshopper where you want that mint punch without sacrificing the drink’s balance.

White Crème de Cacao with Peppermint Extract creates a surprisingly good alternative. Mix 1 ounce of white crème de cacao with 3-4 drops of peppermint extract to replicate the sweet, minty profile. This works especially well in chocolate-mint cocktails where you’re already using cacao-based ingredients.

Branca Menta offers a more sophisticated, less sugary alternative. This Italian digestif combines peppermint with the herbal complexity of Fernet-Branca. Use a 1:1 ratio but expect a more botanical, slightly bitter edge. It’s perfect for cocktails where you want mint without the candy-like sweetness.

Rumple Minze or other high-proof peppermint liqueurs can substitute in a pinch. Use 3/4 ounce for every 1 ounce of crème de menthe called for, and add 1/4 ounce of simple syrup to compensate for the reduced sweetness and higher alcohol content.

Non-Alcoholic Substitutes

Peppermint Extract is your go-to alcohol-free option. Use 1/4 teaspoon of extract plus 1 tablespoon of simple syrup for every 1 ounce of crème de menthe. Start with less extract and taste as you go – peppermint extract is incredibly concentrated and can quickly overpower your drink.

Mint Syrup (either store-bought or homemade) provides that sweet minty flavor without alcohol. Use a 1:1 ratio as a direct replacement. To make your own, steep fresh mint leaves in hot simple syrup for 30 minutes, then strain. This gives you the freshest mint flavor possible.

Peppermint Tea Concentrate works surprisingly well for mocktails. Brew strong peppermint tea (triple the usual amount of tea bags), let it cool, then mix with simple syrup at a 1:1 ratio. Use this mixture as a 1:1 substitute for crème de menthe in any recipe.

Quick Conversion Guide

• 1 oz Crème de Menthe = 1 oz Peppermint Schnapps + 1/4 tsp simple syrup
• 1 oz Crème de Menthe = 1/4 tsp Peppermint Extract + 1 tbsp simple syrup + 2 tbsp water
• 1 oz Crème de Menthe = 1 oz Mint Syrup (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 oz Crème de Menthe = 3/4 oz Rumple Minze + 1/4 oz simple syrup

When substituting, remember that crème de menthe’s thick, syrupy consistency affects the texture of drinks. If using a thinner substitute, you might need to adjust other ingredients slightly to maintain the right mouthfeel.

What is peppermint schnapps?

Usually peppermint schnapps is made with neutral grain alcohol which can be blended by extract of mint, sugar and flavorings. The amount of sweetness it contains varies depending on the brand; some brands contain artificial flavors while others may use natural ingredients such as spearmint or other types of plants that produce a similar taste. Some companies bottle their product anywhere from 15% to 50% ABV.

The Germans are not in the habit of making peppermint schnapps. If you were to ask for it, they would offer up crème de menthe as a substitute – which is made from dried mint leaves infused with sugar syrup and distilled alcohol.

Peppermint schnapps brands

Rumple Minze Peppermint Schnapps

The famous peppermint schnapps, with the emblematic double-headed golden eagle on the label, is frequently seen for its polar bear advertisements.

This liqueur is owned by the London-based firm, Diageo. It is made in Germany by the Scharlachberg distillery. Rimple Minze has a high alcohol content, 100 ABV (50 proof), and it is often drunk as an apertif or digestif. Rimple Minze can also be used to make peppermint cocktails.

Dekuype

This popular peppermint schnapps is produced by a Dutch distillery that started making spirits in 1752. The company originally made barrels and casks for shipping beer and spirits, but then they started making the beverages themselves for Holland and the rest of Europe.

Dr. McGillicuddy’s Schnapps

The most well-known brand of schnapps in the world, dating back to 1891. Dr. McGillicuddy created peppermint as the first and most popular flavor for schnapps. This canadian distillery makes schnapps in a variety of forms, including menthol mint, cherry, vanilla, lemon drop and black licorice.

What’s the Difference Between Peppermint Schnapps and Crème de Menthe?

The two most common mint-flavored liqueurs are peppermint schnapps and crème de menthe. Though they’re made in much the same way, there is a noticeable difference when it comes to sweetness levels and alcohol content.

Peppermint schnapps has more of an intense flavor than that which you find in crème de menthe as well as higher amounts of alcohol; however, this does not keep it from being used creatively within cocktails with other ingredients such as fruit juices or vodka for example.

There are a plethora of drinks that use these two flavors, such as the classic Crème de Menthe and Schnapps. The key is to find the right balance between each one in order for it to taste just perfect. A lower-proof schnapps will be easier on your mouth because its flavor won’t overwhelm you with minty goodness like traditional peppermint or green crèmes would do when used alone; so if mint’s what you’re going for then stick with those instead.

Creme de Menthe and Peppermint Schnapps are both popular mint-flavored liqueurs, but they differ significantly in their sugar content. Creme de Menthe typically has a high sugar content when comparing the two, which contributes to its syrupy texture and sweet flavor. It often contains around 25 grams of sugar per 1.5 ounce serving.

On the other hand, Peppermint Schnapps is less sweet and therefore has a lower sugar content. A 1.5-ounce serving of Peppermint Schnapps typically contains about 10.9 grams of sugar. So, if you’re watching your sugar intake, Peppermint Schnapps might be the better choice between the two.

Alcohol Content Comparison Table

Understanding the alcohol content and sugar levels helps you make better choices for your cocktails and health goals.

Characteristic	Crème de Menthe	Peppermint Schnapps
Alcohol by Volume (ABV)	15-25%	15-50%
Proof	30-50 proof	30-100 proof
Sugar Content (per 1.5 oz)	~25 grams	~11 grams
Calories (per 1.5 oz)	125-165 calories	80-125 calories
Sweetness Level	Very sweet (liqueur)	Moderately sweet
Best For	Dessert cocktails, after-dinner drinks	Shots, mixed drinks, party cocktails

What to Mix with Crème de Menthe

Crème de menthe is a versatile liqueur that pairs beautifully with ingredients that either complement or contrast its sweet, minty character. Here are the best options for creating delicious drinks.

Chocolate and Coffee Flavors

Chocolate is the classic pairing for crème de menthe, creating that beloved mint-chocolate combination. Mix it with white crème de cacao for a Grasshopper, or use dark chocolate liqueur for a richer experience. Coffee liqueurs like Kahlúa also work wonderfully – the slight bitterness balances the mint’s sweetness perfectly. Try equal parts crème de menthe and Kahlúa over ice for an after-dinner treat that tastes like a mint mocha.

Baileys Irish Cream creates a creamy, indulgent combination when mixed with crème de menthe. The result is reminiscent of mint chocolate chip ice cream in liquid form. Use a 2:1 ratio of Baileys to crème de menthe for the best balance.

Cream and Dairy

Heavy cream or half-and-half transforms crème de menthe into a dessert-style drink. The richness of dairy mellows the mint intensity while creating a luxurious texture. This combination works especially well when shaken with ice until frosty. You can also use vanilla ice cream to create a grown-up mint milkshake – blend 2 ounces of crème de menthe with 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Spirits That Complement Mint

Vodka is perhaps the most popular spirit to mix with crème de menthe because it doesn’t interfere with the mint flavor. A simple vodka and crème de menthe combination over ice creates a refreshing, clean-tasting drink. Use a 2:1 vodka to crème de menthe ratio and adjust to taste.

White rum also pairs nicely, adding a subtle sweetness that enhances the mint without competing with it. This combination works particularly well in tropical-style drinks when you add coconut cream or pineapple juice.

Gin’s botanical notes create an interesting herbal complexity when mixed with crème de menthe. The juniper and other botanicals in gin complement the mint, creating a more sophisticated cocktail. Try a 3:1 gin to crème de menthe ratio with a splash of soda water.

Mixers and Non-Alcoholic Additions

Hot chocolate turns crème de menthe into a cozy winter warmer. Add one ounce to a mug of rich hot chocolate for a peppermint mocha experience. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes for extra festivity.

Club soda or sparkling water lightens up crème de menthe significantly, making it refreshing rather than heavy. This is perfect for warm weather drinking when you want mint without the richness. Use 1 ounce crème de menthe to 4 ounces sparkling water over ice with fresh mint leaves.

Lemonade creates a surprisingly refreshing combination. The tartness cuts through the sweetness while the mint adds complexity. This works best with white crème de menthe so the color stays bright and appealing.

What to Mix with Peppermint Schnapps

Peppermint schnapps is more versatile than crème de menthe because of its lower sweetness and higher proof. It works in both dessert-style drinks and more refreshing cocktails.

Hot Beverages

Hot chocolate is the ultimate pairing for peppermint schnapps. Add 1-2 ounces to your favorite hot chocolate for an instant upgrade. The combination tastes like a liquid peppermint patty and works beautifully for winter gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.

Coffee gets a minty kick when you add peppermint schnapps. This works in both hot coffee and iced coffee drinks. For hot coffee, add one ounce to your regular cup along with a splash of cream. For iced coffee, blend peppermint schnapps with cold brew, ice, and a touch of cream for a refreshing pick-me-up.

Hot tea, particularly black tea or chai, pairs surprisingly well with peppermint schnapps. The spices in chai complement the mint beautifully, while black tea creates a more straightforward minty tea toddy.

Fruit Juices

Cranberry juice and peppermint schnapps create a festive combination that’s perfect for holiday parties. The tart cranberry balances the sweet mint, and the color is beautifully festive. Use a 3:1 cranberry to schnapps ratio over ice.

Orange juice might sound unusual, but the citrus and mint combination is refreshing and bright. This works best as a brunch cocktail – mix equal parts orange juice and peppermint schnapps with a splash of champagne for a minty mimosa variation.

Pineapple juice creates a tropical twist on mint drinks. The sweet, tangy pineapple complements the sharp mint flavor surprisingly well. Mix 2 ounces pineapple juice with 1 ounce peppermint schnapps and a splash of coconut cream for a minty piña colada variation.

Classic Spirit Combinations

Vodka and peppermint schnapps is a party-ready combination. The neutral vodka lets the mint shine while adding strength to your drink. This works well in martini-style drinks or simply over ice with a candy cane garnish. Use a 2:1 vodka to schnapps ratio.

Bourbon creates an interesting contrast with peppermint schnapps. The warm, caramel notes of bourbon balance the cooling mint, making it perfect for fall and winter drinks. Try equal parts bourbon and peppermint schnapps with a dash of chocolate bitters for a mint julep variation.

Irish whiskey pairs beautifully with peppermint schnapps in coffee drinks. The smooth, slightly sweet character of Irish whiskey complements mint without overpowering it. Add both to hot coffee with whipped cream for an Irish coffee with a minty twist.

Creamy Additions

Vanilla ice cream and peppermint schnapps make an adult milkshake that’s dangerously delicious. Blend 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream with 2 ounces of peppermint schnapps until smooth. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

Eggnog gets a refreshing twist when you add peppermint schnapps. The rich, creamy eggnog balances perfectly with the bright mint flavor. Add one ounce of schnapps per cup of eggnog and dust with nutmeg.

Whipped cream vodka combines with peppermint schnapps to create a liquid dessert. Mix equal parts of both over ice, or layer them in a shot glass for a candy cane shot experience.

Refreshing Mixers

Sprite or 7-Up creates a simple, crowd-pleasing drink when mixed with peppermint schnapps. The lemon-lime flavor doesn’t interfere with the mint, and the carbonation makes it refreshing. Use 1 ounce schnapps to 4 ounces soda over ice.

Ginger ale adds a spicy kick to peppermint schnapps. The ginger and mint combination is warming and refreshing at the same time. This works particularly well during cold weather – add a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.

Tonic water creates a more sophisticated, less sweet option. The quinine bitterness in tonic balances the mint sweetness beautifully. Use 1.5 ounces peppermint schnapps to 4 ounces tonic water with a lime wedge.

Quick Mixing Guide

For Sweet, Dessert-Style Drinks:

• Crème de menthe + chocolate liqueur + cream
• Peppermint schnapps + hot chocolate
• Crème de menthe + Baileys + ice

For Refreshing, Light Drinks:

• Peppermint schnapps + cranberry juice + lime
• Crème de menthe + club soda + fresh mint
• Peppermint schnapps + lemonade + ice

For Strong, Spirit-Forward Cocktails:

• Crème de menthe + vodka + splash of soda
• Peppermint schnapps + bourbon + bitters
• Crème de menthe + gin + tonic

For Party Shots:

• Peppermint schnapps + whipped cream vodka
• Crème de menthe + vanilla vodka
• Peppermint schnapps + Irish cream

The key to mixing with both liqueurs is balancing their sweetness. When in doubt, start with less mint liqueur and add more to taste. You can always add more mint, but you can’t take it away once it’s mixed.

What cocktails can you make with them?

While both drinks can be enjoyed on their own, the most popular way to drink them is with cocktails. Here are a few examples.

Grasshopper

The classic green cocktail, this recipe is perfect for Halloween, St Patrick’s Day or just for something minty and cool.

You’ll need:

• Ice
• 25ml crème de menthe
• 25ml white crème de cacao
• 25ml single cream

Add everything to a shaker with ice and shake until the outside of the shaker is frosty. Use a cocktail strainer to strain it into a cocktail glass and serve with a mint spring, dipped in chocolate if you like.

Peppermint martini

Another classic, this is a popular Christmas drink but you can really enjoy it at any time if you take out the candy canes.

• 60 ml (2 oz) Vodka
• 15 ml (1/2 oz) Crème de Menthe
• 15 ml (1/2 oz) Peppermint Schnapps
• 2 Candy Canes
• 1 cup Ice Cubes

First, crush the candy canes on a plate and moisten the edge of the glass then roll it in them to coat it.

Fill the cocktail shaker two-thirds full with ice and add the vodka and liqueurs. Shake until chilled and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Santa shot

This fun shot drink is easy to make and combines fruity flavours with mint ones.

Pour 1/3 of a shot glass of grenadine then layer the same amount of white creme de menthe and the final third of peppermint schnapps.  You can garnish with some crushed candy canes if you like.

Chocolate Peppermint Stick

This is a creamy mix of creme de cacao (chocolate liqueur) with Bailey’s Irish Liqueur and Peppermint schnapps.

You’ll need:

• 1.5 ounces Creme de Cacao
• 1.5 ounces Baileys 
• 1.5 ounces Peppermint Schnapps
• 1 Candy cane crushed (or use peppermint candies)

Crush the candy cane on a plate, rim the glass with water and roll it in it to coat.

Place the liqueurs with ice in a cocktail shaker and shake until chilled then serve into a martini glass.

Two mint liqueurs to try

Both of these mint liqueurs bring something a little different to the drinks you make with them.  So it is worth trying them out and seeing what you enjoy best!