Peppermint Espresso Martinis

Why Make This Recipe

Peppermint Espresso Martinis are a delightful mix of coffee and festive peppermint flavors. This cocktail is perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or a special treat to impress your guests. Its combination of rich espresso and refreshing peppermint makes it a unique choice for coffee lovers. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that brings a touch of fun to any occasion.

How to Make Peppermint Espresso Martinis

Ingredients

• 4 oz vodka (or vanilla vodka if desired)
• 2 oz Kahlua (or coffee liquor)
• 3 oz fresh brewed espresso (cooled, or strong cold brew coffee)
• 2 oz half & half (or dairy-free creamer like Nutpods or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha)
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
• Chocolate syrup
• Candy canes (crushed)
• 6 espresso beans

Directions

1. Dip the rim of 2 martini glasses in chocolate syrup to coat, then dip them in crushed candy canes.
2. Fill a shaker halfway with ice.
3. Add vodka, Kahlua, espresso, cream, and peppermint extract to the shaker.
4. Shake well for 60 seconds.
5. Divide the mixture evenly between the 2 glasses and top with 3 espresso beans.
6. Serve chilled in the decorated glasses, optionally adding extra crushed candy cane or a small mint leaf for flair.

How to Serve Peppermint Espresso Martinis

Serve Peppermint Espresso Martinis in the decorated glasses you prepared. They look festive and inviting. You can also consider serving them with a little extra crushed candy cane on the side or a mint leaf for a pop of color.

How to Store Peppermint Espresso Martinis

For the best taste, enjoy your Peppermint Espresso Martinis immediately after making them. If you have leftovers, store the mixture (without garnishes) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake well again before serving. However, it’s best not to store the decorated glasses for later, as the candy canes might lose their crunch.

Tips to Make Peppermint Espresso Martinis

• Ensure your espresso is well-cooled before adding it to the shaker; hot espresso can dilute the drink.
• If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, increase the amount of peppermint extract or add a splash of simple syrup.
• Experiment with different types of vodka for unique flavors, like flavored or infused vodkas.

Variation

For a non-alcoholic version, replace the vodka and Kahlua with sparkling water or soda. You can still use the espresso and peppermint extract to keep the coffee flavor intact while making it family-friendly.

FAQs

Can I use decaf espresso?
Yes, you can use decaf espresso if you want to enjoy the flavor without the caffeine kick.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute half & half with dairy-free creamers, like Nutpods or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha.

Can I make these in advance for a party?
While it’s best to serve them fresh, you can prepare the cocktail mixture ahead of time (without the garnishes) and chill it. Just shake again before serving.

Peppermint Espresso Martinis

A delightful mix of coffee and festive peppermint flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy nights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Cocktail, Drink

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the cocktail

• 4 oz vodka (or vanilla vodka if desired) Use vanilla vodka for a sweeter flavor.
• 2 oz Kahlua (or coffee liquor) You can substitute with your favorite coffee liqueur.
• 3 oz fresh brewed espresso (cooled, or strong cold brew coffee) Ensure espresso is well-cooled before use.
• 2 oz half & half (or dairy-free creamer) Options include Nutpods or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha.
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract Increase for a sweeter cocktail.

For decoration

• 1 tbsp chocolate syrup For coating the glass rims.
• 2 tbsp candy canes (crushed) To decorate the rims and for garnish.
• 6 pieces espresso beans To garnish the drinks.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Dip the rim of 2 martini glasses in chocolate syrup to coat, then dip them in crushed candy canes.
2. Fill a shaker halfway with ice.
3. Add vodka, Kahlua, espresso, half & half, and peppermint extract to the shaker.
4. Shake well for 60 seconds.
5. Divide the mixture evenly between the 2 glasses and top with 3 espresso beans each.
6. Serve chilled in the decorated glasses, optionally adding extra crushed candy cane or a mint leaf for flair.

Notes

For best taste, enjoy immediately. Leftovers can be stored (without garnishes) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake well before serving again. Avoid storing decorated glasses as candy canes may lose crunch.