Peppermint Espresso Martini

A festive, creamy cocktail blending espresso, vodka, and peppermint, finished with a chocolate peppermint rim—perfect for holiday celebrations.

This peppermint espresso martini quickly became my go-to holiday drink, impressing all my guests with its refreshing and indulgent flavors.

Ingredients

• 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:
• 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 a cocktail shaker:

Fill 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.

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This recipe brings warm family memories as we sip and celebrate the holiday season together.

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

Nutritional Information

Calories 295 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 1 g

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This peppermint espresso martini is the perfect festive treat to warm up your holiday gatherings.

Recipe Guide

→ How do I make the chocolate peppermint rim?

Pour chocolate syrup on a small plate, dip the glass rims in the syrup, then coat with crushed candy canes. This creates a festive and flavorful rim.

→ Can I make this without dairy?

Yes, substitute half & half with a dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer like Nutpods or Califia Farms for a dairy-free variation.

→ What type of coffee works best?

Fresh brewed espresso or a strong cold brew coffee ensures a rich and bold coffee flavor in the drink.

→ How long should I shake the cocktail?

Shake vigorously for about 60 seconds with ice to chill well and create a frothy texture.

→ What garnishes enhance this drink?

Use espresso beans for garnish and consider adding a small candy cane as a stirrer for extra festivity.