Ingredients
- 1 oz Tequila
- 1 oz Peppermint Schnapps
Instructions
- Stir together the tequila and peppermint schnapps in a shot glass.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Estimated Nutrition:
Where it came from
The precise origin of the Mexican Snowshoe is largely unrecorded, suggesting it is a more modern creation rather than a classic with deep historical roots. It likely emerged from bars seeking a creamy, dessert-style tequila drink that combined popular flavors. Its name points to a blend of Mexican spirits with a rich, 'snowy' or winter-appropriate component.
This cocktail typically falls into the dessert drink category, akin to an Espresso Martini or a White Russian, but with a distinct agave spirit base. It stands apart by leaning into the robust flavors of tequila or mezcal, often paired with coffee and cream, rather than vodka or whiskey. It is a straightforward build, focusing on rich texture and balanced sweetness.
You would most likely find a Mexican Snowshoe on a dessert menu at a contemporary cocktail bar, or it is an easy one to prepare at home for a gathering. It is a solid choice for someone who enjoys a rich, sweet, and spirited treat, especially on a cooler evening or as a post-meal indulgence.
What it tastes like
A well-made Mexican Snowshoe offers a rich blend of sweet coffee and velvety cream, cut by the earthy, sometimes peppery notes of tequila. The coffee liqueur provides a deep, roasted sweetness, while the cream smooths everything out, creating a dessert-like experience with an underlying agave kick. It is a sweet drink, but the tequila should still assert itself.
Depending on the specific recipe, this drink can clock in around 18-22% ABV. This makes it significantly stronger than a standard 5% beer, so it is definitely a sipper. Do not mistake its creamy sweetness for weakness; it is a potent cocktail designed to be savored slowly.
The technique
To build a Mexican Snowshoe, combine tequila, coffee liqueur, and cream in a shaker with plenty of ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled and thoroughly emulsified. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or serve it over fresh ice in a rocks glass. A simple garnish like a dusting of cinnamon or a few coffee beans completes the presentation.
The single most important technique here is a really hard and thorough shake. You need to properly emulsify the cream with the spirits to achieve that desirable velvety texture and ensure the drink is perfectly chilled. Do not skimp on the ice or the shaking time.
Ingredient Spotlight
The bottles that make or break this drink.
Tequila
- Use
- A good quality blanco or reposado tequila works best. Blanco will give a cleaner agave profile, while reposado adds a touch of oak and vanilla that complements the coffee.
- Skip
- Avoid cheap mixto tequilas that can taste harsh. Añejo might be too dominant with its strong oak notes, potentially clashing with the coffee and cream.
- Why
- Tequila provides the essential agave backbone and the 'Mexican' spirit of the drink. Its earthy and peppery notes are crucial for balancing the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients.
Coffee Liqueur
- Use
- Kahlua is the classic choice, but Mr. Black or other quality coffee liqueurs with genuine coffee flavor are excellent. Look for one that balances sweetness with true coffee bitterness.
- Skip
- Avoid overly sweet, artificial-tasting coffee syrups or very low-quality liqueurs. These will make the drink cloying and lose the depth of actual coffee flavor.
- Why
- Coffee liqueur is a primary flavor component, providing deep roasted notes and sweetness. It is essential for defining the 'coffee' aspect of the drink and pairing with the tequila.
Three Variations
Three real ways bartenders riff on this drink.
Mezcal Snowshoe
- Smoky dessert sipper
- Swap out the tequila for a good mezcal to add a layer of smoky complexity to the creamy coffee profile. This version offers a more adventurous flavor experience.
Horchata Snowshoe
- Creamy cinnamon twist
- Substitute the heavy cream with horchata for a lighter, spiced, and dairy-free creamy texture. This brings a delightful cinnamon and rice milk flavor that pairs well with tequila and coffee.
Spiced Snowshoe
- Winter warmer
- Add a dash of cinnamon liqueur or a small amount of an allspice dram to the standard recipe. This gives the drink an extra layer of warming spice, perfect for colder weather.
What if I don't have…
Quick substitutions for when the bottle shop is closed.
Use a good quality rum, especially an aged one, or even vodka for a more neutral base.
Combine a shot of strong, chilled espresso with 0.5 oz of simple syrup. Adjust to taste.
Half-and-half, whole milk, or a plant-based cream alternative like oat or coconut cream can work, though the texture will be slightly different.
A mason jar with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly well. Just be sure to close it securely before shaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers to what people search for after Googling this drink.
What is in a Mexican Snowshoe?
A Mexican Snowshoe typically contains tequila, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream. Some recipes might include a touch of simple syrup or other flavorings.
Is the Mexican Snowshoe served hot or cold?
It is almost always served cold, either strained into a chilled glass or over fresh ice. It is designed as a refreshing dessert cocktail.
Is the Mexican Snowshoe a dessert drink?
Yes, it absolutely is. With its creamy texture, coffee flavor, and sweetness, it functions perfectly as an after-dinner treat or a standalone indulgence.
What kind of tequila should I use for a Mexican Snowshoe?
A good quality blanco (unaged) or reposado (lightly aged) tequila is recommended. Blanco offers a cleaner agave taste, while reposado adds a subtle warmth.
Can I make a Mexican Snowshoe vegan?
Yes, you can. Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream like oat cream, coconut cream, or a rich almond milk. Ensure your coffee liqueur is also vegan.
How strong is a Mexican Snowshoe?
It is a moderately strong cocktail, typically ranging from 18% to 22% ABV, depending on the exact proportions. It is definitely a drink to sip and enjoy.
What is a good garnish for a Mexican Snowshoe?
A simple dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder, or a few whole coffee beans, makes for an attractive and complementary garnish.
What drinks are similar to a Mexican Snowshoe?
It shares similarities with other creamy, dessert-style cocktails like the White Russian, Espresso Martini, and even an Irish Coffee, but with a distinct tequila base.
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