Save A festive, creamy cocktail blending espresso, vodka, and peppermint, finished with a chocolate peppermint rim—perfect for holiday celebrations.
This is my go-to holiday cocktail that never fails to impress guests and bring festive cheer.
Ingredients
- For the Martinis: 4 oz vodka (plain or vanilla use gluten-free if needed), 2 oz Kahlua or other coffee liqueur, 3 oz fresh brewed espresso cooled (or strong cold brew coffee), 2 oz half & half (or dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer e.g. Nutpods or Califia Farms for dairy-free), ¼ tsp peppermint extract
- For the Chocolate Peppermint Rims & Garnish: Chocolate syrup (enough for rimming glasses), 2 tbsp crushed candy canes, 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 the shaker:
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Add ingredients:
- 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:
- Strain the mixture evenly into the prepared martini glasses.
- Garnish:
- Garnish each drink with 3 espresso beans. Serve immediately.
Save This recipe always brings my family together around the holidays to toast and share stories.
Notes
For a mocha twist, add 2 teaspoons of chocolate syrup to the shaker along with the other ingredients. For extra festivity, add a small candy cane as a stirrer. Nutrition facts do not include the chocolate peppermint rim.
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.
Save This peppermint espresso martini is the perfect holiday cocktail to impress guests with minimal effort.
Recipe Help
- → What ingredients create the peppermint flavor?
Natural peppermint extract and crushed candy canes on the glass rims provide a refreshing peppermint taste.
- → Can I make this drink dairy-free?
Yes, substituting half & half with a dairy-free creamer like Nutpods or Califia Farms keeps it creamy without dairy.
- → How do you achieve the chocolate peppermint rim?
Coat the glass rims with chocolate syrup, then dip them into crushed candy canes for a festive touch and added texture.
- → What’s the best way to prepare the espresso?
Use freshly brewed espresso cooled to room temperature or strong cold brew coffee for a robust coffee flavor.
- → How should the cocktail be served?
Strain the shaken mixture evenly into prepared martini glasses and garnish with espresso beans for an elegant presentation.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness or chocolate flavor?
Adding two teaspoons of chocolate syrup directly into the shaker provides a mocha twist and additional sweetness.