Pin A festive, creamy cocktail blending espresso, vodka, and peppermint, finished with a chocolate peppermint rim—perfect for holiday celebrations.
I love serving these martinis at winter parties because they are easy to make and always impress guests.
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)
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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:
- 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.
Pin This recipe always brings family and friends together during holiday celebrations.
Notes
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
Pin Enjoy your festive peppermint espresso martini responsibly for a perfect holiday treat.
Recipe FAQ
- → What ingredients create the creamy texture?
Half & half or a dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer adds a smooth, creamy texture to the cocktail.
- → How is the peppermint flavor incorporated?
Peppermint extract is mixed into the drink and the rim is coated with crushed candy canes for added minty notes.
- → What coffee component is used?
Freshly brewed espresso or strong cold brew coffee provides a rich coffee base.
- → How do I prepare the chocolate peppermint rim?
Dip the glass rims in chocolate syrup, then coat with crushed candy canes to create the festive rim.
- → Can this drink be made dairy-free?
Yes, substitute half & half with a dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer like Nutpods or Califia Farms.
- → What garnish is recommended?
Espresso beans are placed on top as a garnish to enhance aroma and presentation.
