Candy Cane Cooler

Ingredients

For Infusion:

2 cups fresh mint leaves, de-stemmed
1 bottle quality vodka

Directions

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.

For cocktail:

1 tbs. crushed candy cane or peppermint candy
1 1/2 oz. mint-infused vodka
1/2 oz. B&B (Benedictine and brandy)
1/2 oz. half-and-half
Ice
Peppermint stick
Mint sprig for garnish

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.

Notes

Cocktail started with vodka already infused