Introduction

Wake up your holiday gatherings with these festive Peppermint Espresso Martinis. Combining the rich flavors of espresso and coffee liqueur with a refreshing hint of peppermint, this cocktail is both elegant and invigorating.

A light tan creamy drink fills a clear ribbed glass with a long stem, topped with a rim covered in crushed red and white peppermint candy pieces. On top of the drink, there are several dark brown coffee beans floating. The glass stands on a white marble surface scattered with small red Christmas ornaments, candy canes, and a few coffee beans. A blurred green background with soft yellow lights adds a warm, festive feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 oz vodka (vanilla vodka can be used, ensure gluten free 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 syrup
Crushed candy canes
6 espresso beans

Instructions

Step 1: Dip the rim of two martini glasses in chocolate syrup so they are evenly coated. Immediately dip the coated rims into crushed candy canes to create a festive peppermint and chocolate crust.
Step 2: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes. Pour in the vodka, Kahlua, cooled espresso, half & half (or dairy-free creamer), and peppermint extract.
Step 3: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for 60 seconds to thoroughly chill and combine the ingredients, creating a frothy, smooth cocktail.
Step 4: Strain and divide the mixture evenly between the two prepared martini glasses.
Step 5: Garnish each glass with three espresso beans arranged on top of the drink for a classic espresso martini touch.
Step 6: Serve immediately and enjoy your festive peppermint espresso martinis.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute the half & half with peppermint mocha-flavored non-dairy creamers like Nutpods or Califia Farms.
If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, adjust the peppermint extract by adding a few more drops, but be careful not to overpower the coffee taste.
Use vanilla-flavored vodka to add a subtle sweetness and extra depth to the cocktail.
Replace crushed candy canes with finely chopped dark chocolate or cocoa powder on the rim for a different garnish twist.

Storage

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to prepare it ahead, keep the mixed ingredients in the refrigerator but without ice to avoid dilution. Shake gently before serving. Avoid storing with ice for longer than an hour, as it will water down the flavor.

How to Serve

A creamy light brown drink fills a ribbed, white coupe glass with a tall clear stem, with a frothy top layer that has three dark brown coffee beans arranged near the center. The glass rim is coated with dark chocolate and studded with crushed red and white peppermint pieces, creating a festive border. The drink sits on a white marbled surface, surrounded by small red Christmas ornaments and pieces of candy canes, with soft warm lights and blurred green foliage in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this cocktail without a cocktail shaker?

Yes, you can use a jar with a tight-fitting lid or a blender to mix the ingredients and create a frothy texture if you don’t have a cocktail shaker.

What type of coffee works best for this martini?

Strong espresso or cold brew coffee provides the richest flavor. Make sure the coffee is cooled before mixing to prevent melting the ice and diluting the drink.