Crème de menthe is just about an essential when it comes to dressing up various types of desserts, or enhancing the flavor of several different types of drinks. A mint liqueur that normally appears as a clear or a dark green liquid additive, it can add just the right touch of mint flavoring to give a little extra bite without overpowering the basic taste of the beverage or dessert.
Cooks can add crème de menthe either as an ingredient during the preparation stage, or serve it as a syrupy topping for the finished product. As an example, there are recipes for cakes and puddings that call for the liqueur to be added along with other ingredients before the mixture is cooked. At the same time, a little can be drizzled on to a serving of ice cream, a pastry, or cut fruit to add a little extra flavor to the dish. Because crème de menthe is a concentrated liqueur syrup, a small amount will go a long way in flavoring just about any sweet, hot or cold.
Another application for crème de menthe is in liquids. For a hint of mint flavor in coffee or tea, simply stir in 0.5 teaspoon (3 ml) of the liqueur. It is possible to enhance the flavor of both hot and cold coffee and tea in this manner. Soft drinks are another example of a beverage that may benefit from the addition of a little of the flavor. Adding 0.25 teaspoon (1.5 ml) over the ice in a glass and then pouring the soft drink in will make for a great taste that gently permeates the entire soda.
Crème de menthe is also a perfect compliment as a flavor additive in a number of mixed drinks. For example, many people enjoy a small amount added to a vodka stinger. Just about any type of fruit flavored alcoholic beverage, including margaritas and daiquiris, can be prepared using a drop or two of this mint tasting liqueur. Some people also like a hint of it mixed in a basic drink, such as scotch and water, or rum and cola.
The liqueur can also stand on its own as a drink suitable for the end of mealtimes. Often used as a digestif after a formal dinner, crème de menthe is thought to be an ideal follow up to the meal. As a drink that is understood to promote digestion, it is served in a small tube shaped glass in many cases, with roughly a couple of ounces (around 60 ml) considered to be sufficient.