This Peppermint Espresso Martini is a holiday delight with the perfect hint of peppermint and a smooth, rich flavor. Made with five simple ingredients, this cocktail strikes a flawless balance between the bold espresso and refreshing peppermint, creating a creamy, indulgent drink.
I tested many recipes to finally come up with this one, and let me tell you, it’s the best! It’s so smooth and easy to sip! Whether hosting a holiday party or enjoying a cozy night, this festive martini will be a hit.
Pair it with my espresso chocolate chip cookies for the ultimate cookies and cocktail holiday party!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple yet indulgent: Five ingredients combine to create a luxurious cocktail.
- Perfect holiday flavor: The subtle peppermint makes it ideal for festive gatherings.
- Versatile: Great as an after-dinner drink or for celebrating special occasions.
Also, check out my Peppermint Martini and more Christmas cocktail recipes!
Peppermint Espresso Martini Ingredients
- Vodka: The cocktail’s base adds a clean and smooth backbone to complement the other flavors.
- Coffee Liqueur: Adds a rich, deep coffee flavor that pairs beautifully with the espresso.
- Espresso: Freshly brewed espresso gives the drink its bold, robust coffee kick and silky texture.
- Peppermint Schnapps: This festive, refreshing peppermint flavor makes this martini perfect for the holidays.
- Simple Syrup: Balances the bitterness of the coffee and adds sweetness for a well-rounded drink.
- Ice: Essential for chilling and diluting the cocktail to the perfect balance.
- Coffee Beans (for garnish) add an elegant, classic touch and enhance the coffee aroma as you sip.
Directions
- Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, peppermint schnapps, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with three coffee beans for an elegant touch.
How to Make a White Chocolate and Crushed Candy Cane Rim
Add festive flair to your Peppermint Espresso Martini with a white chocolate and crushed candy cane rim. It’s sweet and crunchy and beautifully enhances the peppermint flavor.
- Melt white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth.
- Crush candy canes in a ziplock bag using a rolling pin.
- Dip the rim of your glass in melted white chocolate, then into crushed candy canes.
- Let’s set for a few minutes before pouring your martini.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or half-and-half for a richer texture.
- Non-alcoholic version: Replace the vodka and coffee liqueur with cold brew coffee and a splash of vanilla extract.
- Adjust sweetness: Add more or less simple syrup to suit your taste.
- Peppermint rim: Coat the rim of your glass with crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.
Serving Recommendations
This Peppermint Espresso Martini is perfect for:
- Holiday gatherings: A standout cocktail for Christmas or New Year’s celebrations.
- After-dinner drinks: Serve it as a festive dessert cocktail.
- Cozy evenings: Pair it with chocolate truffles or peppermint bark for a treat.
Serve in chilled martini glasses to keep the cocktail at the perfect temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s best to shake and serve this Peppermint Espresso Martini fresh for the optimal flavor and texture. However, you can measure all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Add ice, shake vigorously, and strain into a chilled glass for the perfect martini when the moment comes.
I would say no, freshly brewed espresso is always the best choice for this cocktail. It provides a more prosperous, smoother flavor and a beautiful crema that elevates the drink. If you’re in a pinch, instant espresso can work, but it won’t deliver the same depth of flavor.
Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then cool before using. I have a guide on making simple syrup if you need more help.
More Martini Recipes
- Gingerbread Martini
- Christmas Martini Recipe
- Sparkling Grapefruit Martini
- Dirty Martini Recipe
- Cranberry Martini
Cheers to the holidays and making every sip memorable! This Peppermint Espresso Martini will become your go-to festive cocktail, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
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Peppermint Espresso Martini
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1/4 ounce coffee liqueur
- 1 ounce espresso, freshly brewed
- 1/2 ounce peppermint schnaps
- 1/4 ounce simple syrup
Instructions
- Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, simple syrup, and peppermint schnaps to a shaker filled with ice and shake until well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
