If you adore the rich kick of coffee mixed with a cool burst of mint during the holiday season (or any time you want to feel festive), you’re going to absolutely love my Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe. This cocktail isn’t just a drink; it’s a mood, blending espresso’s boldness with creamy peppermint magic and a splash of chocolate — all shaking up a party in your glass. Whether you’re winding down after dinner or kickstarting a cozy night in, this recipe hits the spot every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Invigorating Flavor Combo: Peppermint pairs beautifully with espresso and chocolate, creating a cozy yet lively cocktail.
- Dairy-Free Friendly Options: Easily adaptable using non-dairy creamers, so everyone can enjoy the festive flavors.
- Simple to Make: Just a few ingredients and a good shake, no bartending degree needed.
- Perfect for Parties and Quiet Nights: My family goes crazy for this during the holidays and I love making it for myself after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe is all in the balance — the bold coffee notes meeting creamy sweetness and a refreshing hint of peppermint. It’s important to use fresh espresso or strong cold brew for that deep coffee flavor, and of course, a good quality peppermint extract to get that festive zing without it being overpowering.
- Vodka: I sometimes use vanilla vodka for a little extra warmth and sweetness, and it’s great to find a gluten-free brand if you need to.
- Kahlua or Coffee Liqueur: Adds rich coffee undertones and a bit of sweetness; choose your favorite brand.
- Fresh brewed espresso or strong cold brew coffee: This is the star of the show, so freshly brewed espresso is best for that vibrant kick.
- Half & half or dairy-free creamer: I love swapping in Nutpods Peppermint Mocha creamer for a delicious dairy-free twist that keeps things creamy.
- Peppermint extract: A little goes a long way—start light and adjust to your taste.
- Chocolate syrup: For dipping the glass rims, this adds a luscious chocolate note that pairs perfectly with the peppermint.
- Crushed candy canes: Adds crunch and a festive flair to the rim of your glass.
- Espresso beans: For garnish — they look classy and add an extra coffee aroma as you sip.
Variations
One thing I love about this Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe is how easy it is to customize. I’ve played around with different creamers, added a bit of chocolate syrup to make it mocha-flavored, and even lightened it up by using almond milk-based creamers. Feel free to make it your own!
- Mocha Twist: Adding two teaspoons of chocolate syrup directly into the shaker turns this into a peppermint mocha espresso martini — pure heaven.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap the half & half for peppermint mocha or original Nutpods or Califia Farms creamer, and no one will miss the dairy.
- Extra Minty: If you love peppermint, increase the peppermint extract slightly, but be cautious – it can overpower quickly.
- Stronger Coffee Flavor: If you’re a true coffee lover like me, use double espresso shots or a bold cold brew to increase the caffeine kick.
How to Make Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Glasses with Chocolate Peppermint Rims
Start by dipping the rims of two martini glasses in chocolate syrup — don’t be shy here; a generous coating helps the crushed candy canes stick perfectly. Then, dip the chocolate-coated rims into a plate with crushed candy canes for that festive crunch and a pop of minty color. It makes the drink feel extra special and sets the mood before the first sip.
Step 2: Shake It Up
Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice (I always add a good handful to chill everything properly). Pour in the vodka, Kahlua, cooled espresso or cold brew, half & half (or your dairy-free creamer), and peppermint extract. Shake vigorously for about 60 seconds—this not only chills your drink but blends that peppermint magic beautifully with the coffee and cream.
Step 3: Pour and Garnish
Strain the mixture evenly into your prepped martini glasses. I like to top each with three espresso beans for that classic touch. You’ll notice the aroma hit you right away, and the flavor balance is just delightful. Cheers!
Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
- Use Freshly Brewed Espresso: I learned the hard way that old or weak coffee dulls the flavor; fresh espresso is key for that punch.
- Chill Your Shaker and Glasses: Pop them in the fridge a bit beforehand for an icy-cold drink that stays refreshing longer.
- Balance the Peppermint Extract: Start with less; peppermint is potent, and you can always add a bit more if you want stronger mint vibes.
- Don’t Skip the Rim Decoration: It’s more than garnish — it adds texture and flavor with every sip, making your cocktail feel festive and indulgent.
How to Serve Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
Garnishes
I always go for those classic espresso beans on top because they look elegant and enhance the coffee aroma as you sip. The crushed candy cane rim is my favorite — it adds crunch and peppermint goodness, making each sip playful. Sometimes I add a small whole candy cane as a stirrer if I’m feeling extra festive!
Side Dishes
This martini pairs wonderfully with dessert — I like serving it alongside dark chocolate truffles, peppermint bark, or even buttery shortbread cookies. The rich coffee and mint flavors complement sweets beautifully, making for an indulgent little celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday parties, I’ve done a layered tray presentation — lining up martinis with little bites of peppermint brownies and espresso-infused chocolates. Another fun idea is serving the martinis in mini coupe glasses for an elegant touch at intimate gatherings. Don’t forget dim, warm lighting with some fairy lights to set a cozy vibe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Honestly, espresso martinis are best fresh, but if you do have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a gentle shake before pouring to re-mix the ingredients—flavors may mellow slightly but still taste great.
Freezing
Freezing this cocktail isn’t something I recommend since the espresso and cream can separate and change texture, losing its silky mouthfeel. For the best experience, stick to making it fresh or storing chilled briefly.
Reheating
These drinks are meant to be served cold and aren’t suitable for reheating. If you want a warm peppermint coffee experience instead, try making a hot peppermint mocha separately—I’ll share my go-to recipe next time!
FAQs
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Can I make the Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe without alcohol?
Absolutely! To make a mocktail version, replace vodka and coffee liqueur with strong cold brew coffee and a splash of coffee-flavored syrup or vanilla extract. The peppermint and cream will still give it a lovely festive flavor without the booze.
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What’s the best espresso to use in this Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe?
A freshly brewed double shot of rich, dark espresso works best, but if you don’t have an espresso machine, a strong cold brew concentrate or very dark brewed coffee can be great substitutes. Just make sure it’s cooled before mixing.
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Can I add chocolate syrup inside the drink?
Yes! Adding about two teaspoons of chocolate syrup when shaking adds a delicious mocha twist, turning the martini into a peppermint mocha espresso cocktail. It’s one of my favorite variations.
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How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swapping the half & half with peppermint mocha flavored non-dairy creamers like Nutpods or Califia Farms keeps it creamy and dairy-free without losing that minty richness.
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How long can I keep the Peppermint Espresso Martini refrigerated?
Up to 24 hours in the fridge is fine if stored in an airtight container, but I find it tastes best freshly made to keep that creamy texture and fresh espresso flavor.
Final Thoughts
When I first tried this Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe, I was hooked instantly — it felt like a cozy holiday hug in a glass, combined with a grown-up coffee buzz. It’s become my go-to for holiday entertaining and special evenings at home. I really encourage you to try this recipe as is, and then play around with the peppermint and mocha levels until it’s perfectly you. Trust me, once you shake up your first glass, you’ll be making these all season long!
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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
Description
This Peppermint Espresso Martini is a festive and delightful cocktail combining the rich flavors of vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh espresso with a refreshing hint of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it features a chocolate peppermint rim for an extra burst of flavor and holiday cheer.
Ingredients
Martini Ingredients
- 4 oz vodka (can use vanilla vodka if desired – 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 or dairy-free alternative like Nutpods or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha creamer
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract
Chocolate Peppermint Rims & Garnish
- Chocolate syrup
- Crushed candy canes
- 6 espresso beans
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass Rims: Dip the rims of 2 martini glasses in chocolate syrup to coat them thoroughly, then immediately dip the rims into crushed candy canes to create a festive chocolate peppermint crust.
- Mix the Cocktail: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Pour in the vodka, Kahlua, cooled espresso, half & half (or dairy-free creamer), and peppermint extract. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 60 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
- Serve: Strain and divide the mixture evenly between the two prepared martini glasses. Garnish each glass with 3 espresso beans for an authentic espresso martini touch. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- For a mocha twist, add 2 teaspoons of chocolate syrup to the shaker along with the other ingredients.
- Nutrition facts listed do not include the chocolate peppermint rim.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute 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: 190
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
