Spicy Candy Cane Julep: A Festive Ginger Beer Cocktail

This Spicy Candy Cane Julep is festive, bright, and unexpectedly fun. No champagne, no tricks. Just a really good ginger beer cocktail with a little heat and a cool peppermint finish.

Mint and ginger beer keep it crisp and refreshing. A single slice of jalapeño adds just enough heat to make things interesting. El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup pulls it all together with a clean peppermint note that feels holiday appropriate without going over the top.

It’s playful, easy to build, and happens to be alcohol free by default. The kind of drink people assume took more effort than it did. We’ll keep that between us.

The Unexpected Kick: Jalapeño and Candy Cane Syrup

What makes this Spicy Candy Cane Julep work is restraint. A little heat goes a long way when it’s balanced correctly.

This julep proves that a little contrast builds real depth. El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup brings cool, minty sweetness, while a single slice of jalapeño cuts through with a clean, controlled kick. Ginger beer rounds everything out, keeping the drink bright, refreshing, and balanced.

The result is festive without being gimmicky, impressive without being complicated. Made in New Orleans, with thoughtfully chosen ingredients and plenty of personality.

Spicy Candy Cane Julep

x Christa Cotton
📸: The Margarita Mum
This recipe makes one serving.

Ingredients:

• ¹⁄₂ oz El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup
• 4 oz Ginger Beer
• 1 slice Jalapeño
• 1 drop pink food coloring (if desired)
• Mint, Jalapeños, & Edible Flowers, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Get ready for a spicy sweet beauty.

1. Muddle the Jalapeño: Add the slice to your shaker. Give it a gentle press to wake up the heat.
2. Add the rest: Add the El Guapo Candy Cane Syrup, food coloring and ice.
3. Shake & Strain: Shake until it is cold. Double strain over fresh ice in your favorite glass.
4. Top & Garnish: Pour in the ginger beer. Add mint, jalapeño and flowers. Serve right away.

Tips & Variations:

• Control the heat: The jalapeño should add warmth, not overwhelm. Start with one slice and taste before adding more. Removing the seeds will soften the heat even further.
• Adjust the peppermint:  El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup is intentionally balanced, but peppermint preference is personal. Add a little at a time and taste as you go.
• Keep it cold: This julep drinks best well chilled. Use cold ginger beer and plenty of ice to keep it crisp and refreshing.
• Make it sparkle differently: If you prefer something drier, swap the ginger beer for a non alcoholic sparkling wine. You’ll lose a bit of spice but gain a cleaner finish.
• Batch with care: This recipe can be scaled for a group. Mix everything except the jalapeño ahead of time, then add it just before serving so the heat stays controlled.

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 

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?

Good news. It is already non alcoholic. Swap the ginger beer for a non alcoholic sparkling wine if you want something closer to champagne.

Why add a jalapeño to a candy cane cocktail?

Because sweet and spicy make magic. The heat keeps the drink lively and stops the peppermint from feeling too sweet. It surprises people in the best way.

What is El Guapo Candy Cane Syrup made from?

El Guapo™ Candy Cane Syrup is made with real peppermint oil and pure cane sugar. It’s designed to deliver clean peppermint flavor without the artificial bite of crushed candy canes or extracts.