Peppermint Espresso Cocktail (Printable)

Creamy espresso and peppermint drink with a chocolate rim, perfect for festive occasions and easy preparation.

# What You Need:

→ For the Martinis

01 - 4 fl oz vodka (plain or vanilla; gluten-free if needed)
02 - 2 fl oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlua)
03 - 3 fl oz freshly brewed espresso, cooled (or strong cold brew coffee)
04 - 2 fl oz half & half (or dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer as alternative)
05 - ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

→ For the Chocolate Peppermint Rims & Garnish

06 - Chocolate syrup (sufficient for glass rims)
07 - 2 tablespoons crushed candy canes
08 - 6 espresso beans for garnish

# How to Make It:

01 - 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 into crushed candy canes to adhere. Set glasses aside.
02 - Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, half & half (or dairy-free creamer), and peppermint extract to the shaker.
03 - Shake vigorously for 60 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and frothy.
04 - Strain the mixture evenly into the prepared martini glasses.
05 - Garnish each cocktail with three espresso beans and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Festive creamy cocktail
  • Perfect for holiday celebrations
02 -
  • For a mocha twist, add 2 teaspoons of chocolate syrup to the shaker along with the other ingredients
  • To make dairy free, substitute half & half with a dairy-free creamer such as Nutpods or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha
03 -
  • Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor
  • Chill glasses beforehand to keep the martinis cold longer
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