Jolie Stinger: Festive Candy Cane Syrup Cocktail
Sep 18, 2025
If you want a holiday cocktail that stops the room, the Jolie Stinger is it. This crème de menthe cocktail takes the classic Stinger and gives it a polished, festive twist. Cognac brings richness. Mint keeps it lively. Our Spiced Cocoa Bitters and Candy Cane Syrup add depth with no artificial anything.
This recipe comes from Cale at Jolie, the first prize winner of our 2023 Holiday Competition. It is elegant. It is fun. It is the kind of drink that earns a grin before the first sip.
What Makes the Jolie Stinger Special?
The original Stinger is brandy and crème de menthe. Simple and direct. The Jolie Stinger goes further. Cognac adds warmth and structure. Crème de menthe brings cool mint. Candy Cane Syrup adds festive sweetness. Spiced Cocoa Bitters pull everything together with gentle heat and aroma. The flavor sits in that sweet spot between playful and sophisticated.
The Jolie Stinger Recipe
This recipe makes one cocktail.
Ingredients
- 3 oz Merlet VS Cognac
- 1 oz Crème de Menthe
- 4 dashes El Guapo™ Spiced Cocoa Bitters
- Garnish with Salted Genepy Miso Honey El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup Foam
- Flamed cinnamon for garnish
Instructions
- If you want a rim, dip your glass in Candy Cane Syrup then in crushed candy cane.
- Add cognac, crème de menthe and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir until cold.
- Strain into the prepared glass.
- Top with Candy Cane Syrup Foam.
- Finish with a flame kissed cinnamon stick.
What is a Crème de Menthe Cocktail?
A crème de menthe cocktail uses mint liqueur as its lead note. It can taste bright or rich depending on what you pair it with. These drinks show up at holiday tables for a reason. They feel cool, refreshing and celebratory. The Jolie Stinger is our elevated take.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is crème de menthe?
It is a sweet mint liqueur made from mint leaves and botanicals. It comes in clear and green styles and adds a clean mint flavor to cocktails.
Can I make this cocktail without the special foam?
Yes. The foam adds a festive flourish but the drink stands strong without it. A sprig of mint or a crushed candy cane rim works well.
What does cognac pair well with in cocktails?
Cognac pairs beautifully with chocolate, caramel, citrus and spice. It also works with mint as shown here. Its depth makes it a natural base for a refined holiday cocktail.
