Save A festive, creamy cocktail blending espresso, vodka, and peppermint, finished with a chocolate peppermint rim perfect for holiday celebrations.
This classic cocktail has been a hit at every holiday party I've hosted, creating memorable moments with friends and family.
Ingredients
- For the Martinis: 4 oz vodka (plain or vanilla use gluten-free if needed)
- For the Martinis: 2 oz Kahlua or other coffee liqueur
- For the Martinis: 3 oz fresh brewed espresso, cooled (or strong cold brew coffee)
- For the Martinis: 2 oz half & half (or dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer, e.g. Nutpods or Califia Farms, for dairy-free)
- For the Martinis: ¼ tsp peppermint extract
- For the Chocolate Peppermint Rims & Garnish: Chocolate syrup (enough for rimming glasses)
- For the Chocolate Peppermint Rims & Garnish: 2 tbsp crushed candy canes
- For the Chocolate Peppermint Rims & Garnish: 6 espresso beans (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the glasses:
- Pour a thin layer of chocolate syrup onto a small plate. Dip the rims of two martini glasses into the syrup to coat. Then dip the rims into the crushed candy canes to adhere. Set aside.
- Fill a cocktail shaker:
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Add ingredients to shaker:
- Add vodka, Kahlua, espresso, half & half (or dairy-free creamer), and peppermint extract to the shaker.
- Shake:
- Shake vigorously for 60 seconds, until well-chilled and frothy.
- Strain mixture:
- Strain the mixture evenly into the prepared martini glasses.
- Garnish:
- Garnish each drink with 3 espresso beans. Serve immediately.
Save We enjoy making these martinis together every holiday season, a tradition that brings us closer each year.
Required Tools
Cocktail shaker, Martini glasses, Small plates (for rimming), Measuring jigger, Strainer
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (unless using dairy-free creamer). Contains alcohol and coffee. May contain soy or tree nuts if using certain creamers check product labels. Contains peppermint; check for allergies to mint.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 295, Total Fat: 5 g, Carbohydrates: 18 g, Protein: 1 g per serving
Save These peppermint espresso martinis are a perfect holiday treat that'll impress your guests every time.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What ingredients create the peppermint flavor?
Peppermint extract and crushed candy canes on the rim provide the refreshing minty notes in the drink.
- → Can I make this drink dairy free?
Yes, substitute half & half with dairy-free creamers like Nutpods or Califia Farms peppermint mocha creamer.
- → How do I prepare the chocolate peppermint rim?
Dip the glass rims in chocolate syrup then coat with crushed candy canes for a festive, crunchy finish.
- → What coffee is best for this drink?
Fresh brewed espresso cooled or strong cold brew coffee works best to give a rich coffee flavor.
- → How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 5 minutes with no cooking time, making it quick to serve for guests.