If you’re on the hunt for a cocktail that’s rich, refreshing, and just a little bit festive, you absolutely have to try this Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe. It’s the perfect pick-me-up after dinner and a total crowd-pleaser during the holidays (or anytime you want a fun twist). I love how the cool peppermint complements the bold espresso and smooth vodka – trust me, once you make it, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your cocktail arsenal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive and Refreshing: The peppermint gives a cool, bright twist that pairs perfectly with rich espresso flavors.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these in your kitchen or local store already, making it super easy to whip up.
- Customizable: Whether you want it dairy-free or extra chocolaty, you can tweak the recipe easily to your taste.
- Impress Your Guests: The chocolate peppermint rim looks fancy but is super simple — your friends will be wowed every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe serves a special role — from the smooth vodka to the creamy half & half, plus that invigorating espresso and hint of peppermint. When choosing your coffee, fresh brewed espresso or a strong cold brew works best because it balances out the sweetness and gives that bold coffee kick.
- Vodka: I love using vanilla vodka sometimes for extra warmth; just make sure it’s gluten-free if that’s your concern.
- Kahlua (coffee liqueur): Adds depth and sweetness; if you want to skip alcohol, you could experiment with coffee syrup, but it won’t have quite the same punch.
- Espresso or strong cold brew: Fresh and cooled is key — hot coffee will melt the ice and dilute the cocktail too fast.
- Half & half or dairy-free creamer: For a creamy texture; Nutpods or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha creamer work magic if you’re dairy-free.
- Peppermint extract: Just a touch is enough to brighten the drink without overpowering it.
- Chocolate syrup & crushed candy canes: For that irresistible rim; it’s the little details that make this cocktail special.
- Espresso beans: A classic garnish that signals the coffee goodness inside.
Variations
I love experimenting with this Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe, and you’ll find it easy to make your own mark. Whether you prefer a dairy-free version, more chocolate, or want to keep it alcohol-free, there are simple swaps that work well.
- Mocha Twist: I add 2 tsp of chocolate syrup into the shaker when I’m craving something richer — it’s like a peppermint mocha in a glass, and my family goes crazy for it.
- Dairy-Free: Swapping half & half for a peppermint mocha-flavored creamer not only makes this vegan-friendly but also amps up the festive flavor.
- Alcohol-Free Version: Using coffee syrup and peppermint extract, combined with cold brew, can give you a mocktail version that’s still festive and delicious.
How to Make Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Glasses
Before you start shaking, I like to get the glasses ready. Dip the rim of your martini glasses in chocolate syrup — the thickness helps the crushed candy cane pieces stick perfectly. Then, dip the rims into the crushed candy canes for that festive, crunchy edge. This step makes your drink look like you spent hours prepping, even though it’s quick and fun!
Step 2: Shake It Up
Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice, then add the vodka, Kahlua, cooled espresso, half & half (or creamer), and peppermint extract. Shake vigorously for about 60 seconds — you want it well chilled and a little frothy. I discovered that shaking longer helps blend the peppermint perfectly and chills the drink without watering it down.
Step 3: Pour and Garnish
Strain the mixture evenly into your prepared glasses. Top each one with 3 espresso beans for that classic cocktail look and a little coffee aroma as you sip. That’s really all there is to it — simple, elegant, and oh-so-delicious.
Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
- Use Fresh Espresso: I’ve found that fresh, cooled espresso really makes the flavor pop compared to pre-made coffee or instant.
- Chill Everything in Advance: Keep your shaker and glasses in the fridge for a bit—it keeps the drink cold longer and gives that bar-quality chill.
- Don’t Overdo Peppermint: A quarter teaspoon of peppermint extract is plenty; more can overpower the coffee and creaminess.
- Crushed Candy Canes for Rimming: Crushing rather than grinding the candy canes creates just the right texture so it sticks well without making a mess.
How to Serve Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
Garnishes
I’m always partial to the classic espresso beans on top — they add a nice aroma and a sophisticated touch. The chocolate syrup and crushed candy cane rim isn’t just for looks; it adds a lovely peppermint-chocolate crunch with every sip. Sometimes, I add a small sprig of fresh mint for a little greenery and extra fragrance.
Side Dishes
This Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe pairs beautifully with rich desserts like chocolate truffles, peppermint bark, or even a warm brownie. At holiday parties, I like serving it alongside a cheese board with nuts and dried fruits — it balances out the sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve poured this into mini martini glasses and served with striped paper straws for a festive vibe. Another fun idea is to float a small peppermint candy cane in the drink for stirring — it slowly dissolves and adds extra minty flavor as you enjoy it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually don’t store leftover Peppermint Espresso Martini because it’s best fresh and chilled, but if you do mix extra, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or stir before serving again to bring it back together.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t really ideal for this cocktail since the cream and coffee can separate and become grainy. I wouldn’t recommend freezing Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe if you want to keep that silky smooth texture.
Reheating
This is a cold cocktail, so reheating isn’t applicable here. If you want warm peppermint coffee, I’d suggest making it fresh instead. The espresso martini taste really shines best over ice, so I don’t recommend warming leftovers.
FAQs
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Can I make the Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the half & half for a dairy-free creamer like Nutpods or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha creamer. They add creaminess and peppermint flavor without any dairy, and you won’t lose that luxurious mouthfeel.
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What’s the best coffee to use in this cocktail?
I recommend fresh brewed espresso that’s cooled or a strong cold brew concentrate. Both provide a bold, robust flavor that holds up well when shaken with cream and alcohol, giving you that signature espresso martini punch.
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Can I make this ahead for a party?
Yes, you can prepare the cocktail mixture and keep it chilled for a few hours, but I suggest adding the ice and shaking just before serving to keep it fresh and frothy. Also, don’t forget to rim your glasses and add garnishes at the last minute for the best presentation.
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How strong is the peppermint flavor?
The peppermint is subtle but distinct, enhancing the espresso without overpowering it. I use just a quarter teaspoon of peppermint extract so it brightens the drink without turning it into a candy cane cocktail.
Final Thoughts
This Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe is such a fun, festive way to enjoy a classic cocktail with a holiday twist. I’ve made it for holiday parties, cozy winter nights, and even casual get-togethers — and it always gets rave reviews. It’s approachable enough for beginners but impressive enough to serve when you want to treat yourself or your friends. Give it a try, and I’m pretty sure it’ll become one of your favorite cocktail recipes, too.
Print
Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 martinis
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A festive and refreshing cocktail recipe featuring the rich flavor of espresso combined with peppermint and creamy vodka, perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 oz vodka (vanilla vodka can be used, gluten-free recommended if needed)
- 2 oz Kahlua or coffee liqueur
- 3 oz fresh brewed espresso, cooled or strong cold brew coffee
- 2 oz half & half (use Nutpods or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha creamer for dairy-free option)
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract
Chocolate Peppermint Rims & Garnish
- Chocolate syrup
- Crushed candy canes
- 6 espresso beans
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass Rims: Dip the rim of 2 martini glasses into chocolate syrup to coat them evenly. Immediately dip the coated rims into crushed candy canes to create a festive and flavorful rim garnish.
- Mix the Cocktail: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Pour in the vodka, Kahlua, cooled espresso, half & half, and peppermint extract. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 60 seconds to chill and combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Serve: Strain and divide the cocktail evenly between the two prepared martini glasses. Garnish each drink with 3 espresso beans on top as a finishing touch. Enjoy your peppermint espresso martinis!
Notes
- Mocha Variation: For a mocha flavor, add 2 teaspoons of chocolate syrup to the shaker along with other ingredients.
- Nutrition Info: The nutrition facts provided do not include the chocolate peppermint rim.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace half & half with original or peppermint mocha flavored Nutpods creamer or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha creamer for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 martini
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
