Espresso Martini with Peppermint - holiday inspired co*cktail recipe (2024)

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Bring festive vibes to your holiday gatherings with this Peppermint Espresso Martini recipe! A blend of Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha, vodka, and freshly brewed espresso, it’s the perfect winter co*cktail. From cozy fireside sips to Christmas parties, this drink is a must-try.

Espresso Martini with Peppermint - holiday inspired co*cktail recipe (1)

With the holidays season in full swing, I wanted to share a festive co*cktail that’s bound to sprinkle a little festive magic into your gatherings: the Peppermint Espresso Martini.

Think of it as the classic espresso martini getting all dressed up for the winter festivities. Whether you’re curling up by the fire or hosting a holiday bash, this drink is just the right blend of cheer and charm.

I’m a big fan of espresso martinis, so adding a seasonal twist to this co*cktail just made sense. Plus, I figured that around the holidays you might need a festive little pick-me-up. I think you’re going to love this recipe too!

Love peppermint drinks? Then don’t miss out on these Peppermint White Russians or These White Chocolate Peppermint Martinis. SO GOOD!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Festive Flair: There’s something about the holiday season that just calls for a touch of peppermint, and this drink perfectly captures that wintery magic.
  • Easy to Make: Even if you’re not a pro at the bar, this recipe is straightforward and fun. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be whipping up Peppermint Espresso Martinis like a seasoned mixologist.
  • Elevate Your Coffee Game: The rich blend of freshly brewed espresso with the Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha is an elegant twist on your usual coffee. It’s a delightful pick-me-up with a festive spin.
  • Perfect for Parties: Looking for a sophisticated yet cheerful drink to serve at your holiday gathering? This martini is sure to impress guests and get everyone into the festive spirit.

So, grab your co*cktail shaker and let’s bring a sprinkle of holiday cheer to your next get-together!

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Ingredients

Before we can shake up these Peppermint Espresso Martinis, you’ll want to gather up your ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

  • Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha: A festive twist on the classic Kahlúa, this adds a delightful blend of peppermint and mocha to the drink. It’s the heart of our martini’s holiday vibe.
  • Vodka: The backbone of our martini, vodka brings the necessary kick, ensuring our drink is smooth yet spirited. (You could even try vanilla vodka!)
  • Freshly Brewed Espresso: Nothing wakes you up quite like a shot of espresso. It adds depth and a roasted flavor that beautifully complements our other ingredients.
  • Splash of Cream (Optional): If you like your martinis with a touch of creaminess like I do, this will be your best friend. It’s all about adding a velvety finish to each sip.
  • Ice: Crucial for chilling our martini to perfection, ensuring every sip is refreshingly cold.
  • Crushed Peppermint Candy and Honey: The honey helps the peppermint adhere, creating a sweet and minty rim that sets the tone for the festive drink you’re about to enjoy. (You can also used crushed peppermint candies if you don’t have candy canes.)

With these ingredients on hand, you’re set to create a drink that’s as enchanting as winter’s first snowfall. Let’s get mixing!

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How to Make

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, Let’s get brewing and shaking. You can find the step-by-step instructions below. I’ve also provideda full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

  1. Begin by rimming your martini glass in honey. Let any excess drip off. Then, dip into the crushed peppermint pieces. Set aside.
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  1. Next, brew a shot of espresso.
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  1. Then, fill a co*cktail shaker with ice and add Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha, vodka, a splash of cream, and the espresso you just brewed. (Typically espresso martinis do not have cream. However, I like cream in my coffee, so a splash in my martini made it perfect. Plus, I also love the creamy mocha color it creates.)
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  1. Shake it all up and pour it into a beautiful martini glass rimmed with crushed candy cane.
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And there you have it!

A festive martini that’s as delightful to sip as it is to look at. Whether you stick to the original recipe, try a variation, or even come up with your own twist, the spirit of the holidays is just a glass away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular Kahlúa instead of the Peppermint Mocha variety?

Absolutely! The drink will have a more classic espresso martini taste without the peppermint hint. If you still want that festive touch, consider adding a drop or two of peppermint extract.

No espresso machine at home, what can I use?

No worries! You can use really strongly brewed coffee as a substitute. Just ensure it’s cooled down before using.

Any suggestions for vodka brands?

While any vodka works, for a smoother taste, consider using premium brands like Grey Goose, Belvedere, or Tito’s. (Absolut Vanilla vodka would also be delicious and add another level of flavor.)

How do I get the perfect crushed peppermint for the rim?

Place candy canes or peppermint candies in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to gently crush them. You’re aiming for fine granules that will easily adhere to the honey-rimmed glass.

Can I use peppermint schnapps in place of Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha?

While peppermint schnapps will add a minty kick, it won’t provide the same mocha richness as Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha. If you go this route, consider adding some chocolate syrup or liqueur to maintain the intended flavor profile.

Remember, the best part about making co*cktails is putting your own spin on things. Feel free to tweak the recipe to your liking and enjoy the process! Cheers to festive sipping!

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If you like espresso and martinis, be sure to give this a try. If you don’t like peppermint with your coffee, use regular Kahlúa and skip the peppermint rim to make a classic Espresso Martini.

No matter how you shake it up, I think you’ll enjoy this festive co*cktail recipe. If you try this recipe and enjoy it,please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.

Want more from Inspired by Charm?Join theIBC Mailing Listfor inspiration in your inbox! Follow along onInstagramandTikTokfor daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my processes. There’s even more inspiration onFacebookandPinterest!

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Peppermint Espresso Martini

Peppermint and espresso come together to create this festive Peppermint Espresso Martini. It makes a delicious after dinner drink or holiday co*cktail recipe.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Keyword: apple pie martini, espresso, peppermint

Prep Time: 6 minutes minutes

Total Time: 6 minutes minutes

Servings: 1

Calories: 248kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha
  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 1 ounce freshly brewed espresso
  • splash cream optional
  • Ice
  • Crushed peppermint candy cane and honey to garnish (You can also use peppermint hard candies.)

Instructions

  • Begin by rimming your martini glass in honey. Let any excess drip off. Then, dip into the crushed peppermint pieces. Set aside.

  • In a co*cktail shaker with ice, add the Kahlúa, vodka, espresso, and cream. Shake vigorously until combined and cold.

  • Pour the co*cktail into the prepared martini glass and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Optional: If you like your martinis a bit sweeter, add a splash of simple syrup.

Nutrition

Calories: 248kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 8mg | Potassium: 38mg | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 74IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.1mg

Espresso Martini with Peppermint - holiday inspired co*cktail recipe (2024)

FAQs

What is a holiday espresso martini called? ›

Peppermint Espresso Martini. Bring festive vibes to your holiday gatherings with this Peppermint Espresso Martini recipe! A blend of Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha, vodka, and freshly brewed espresso, it's the perfect winter co*cktail. From cozy fireside sips to Christmas parties, this drink is a must-try.

How do you spruce up an espresso martini? ›

Swap out the vodka for rum or whiskey or change up the flavor of your coffee liqueur. You can use everything from vanilla and cinnamon spice to the viral Parmesan cheese trend used for espresso martinis. You'll have a ball playing with textures, especially when it comes to garnishing the rim of the martini glass.

What alcohol base is used in a gingerbread espresso martini? ›

Martinis. Step 1In a co*cktail shaker, combine Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur, vodka, espresso, and 2 oz. gingerbread syrup. Fill shaker with ice and vigorously shake until outside of shaker is very cold, about 20 seconds.

Can you use Baileys instead of Kahlua in espresso martini? ›

This espresso martini recipe differs from classic ones for two main reasons: (1) we use Baileys Irish Cream to make it super creamy and smooth, and (2) there is no Kahlua, simple syrup, or rum in this recipe.

What type of person drinks Espresso Martini? ›

Espresso Martini

If this is your co*cktail of choice you are likely an intense individual who gives 100% to everything you do. Espresso Martini drinkers have a 'work hard, play hard attitude and are happy to take the lead in both professional and social situations.

Does Kahlua make peppermint mocha? ›

The cool, refreshing taste of peppermint and rich dark chocolate come together to create a delicious, thick and smooth texture… You'll love it from your very first sip.

What liquor is best for an espresso martini? ›

Vodka: I add 1 ½ oz. of vodka for the perfect ratio of booze to coffee. Vodka is the signature alcohol for a classic espresso martini—use another, and it just won't be the same. While you don't have to reach for top shelf, I suggest using a brand you enjoy drinking.

What is the secret to the perfect espresso martini? ›

The secret to a frothy espresso martini is to use machine brewed espresso. You'll notice that when using a coffee machine the coffee has foam on top (called Crema in Italian), you won't get that by using a French press or instant coffee (please don't use instant coffee for this).

Is Kahlúa or Tia Maria better for espresso martini? ›

A Bartender's Go-To Espresso Martini Recipe

Per Overproof's report, overall, Kahlúa leads as the top coffee liqueur brand, and Tito's Handmade Vodka leads as the top vodka brand by the percentage of branded menu mentions.

Do bartenders hate Espresso Martini? ›

Most co*cktail bartenders have the same pet hate: making Espresso Martinis. While they may seem like a simple enough drink, they're actually a bit of a punish because of the need for a fresh shot of espresso using an actual espresso machine.

What's the difference between Espresso Martini Kahlua and Baileys? ›

To make an espresso martini with Baileys, all you have to do is switch out the Kahlua for Baileys. In today's recipe, the espresso flavor is definitely there, but it's not as strong as in the traditional espresso martini. If you want a stronger coffee taste, you should really use a bit of Kahlua instead of all Baileys.

How do bartenders make Espresso Martini? ›

Steps
  1. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice and shake until well-chilled.
  2. Strain into a chilled co*cktail glass.
  3. Garnish with 3 coffee beans.
Nov 13, 2023

Is espresso martini better with vodka or tequila? ›

The liquor base for an espresso martini co*cktail is vodka. We recommend choosing a premium unflavored vodka made with the finest ingredients to help the drink truly shine. The drink also incorporates a coffee liqueur.

Can you use rum chata in an espresso martini? ›

RumChata Espresso Martini

A simple 2 ingredient martini made with RumChata and Espresso. It is creamy and a little sweet with a kick of caffeine.

What is sweeter Kahlua or Baileys? ›

Kahlua is more coffee-flavored than Baileys - which comes off as sweeter and creamier in general. This doesn't mean it's better or worse though, because there are people who prefer one over the other! If you want to try them both out for yourself, go to your local liquor store and ask for a Kahlua or Baileys.

What is a Starbucks holiday drink? ›

Reminiscent of freshly baked gingerbread and olive oil cake, the Starbucks Oleato holiday beverage combines Starbucks® Blonde Espresso Roast infused with Partanna® extra virgin olive oil, with steamed oatmilk and notes of warm gingerbread. Finished with a subtle dusting of bright ginger and citrus.

Is Espresso Martini a winter drink? ›

The Espresso Martini is perfect for warming you up and driving away the cold during the winter season, but you can also enjoy it in the summer served with ice.

Are espresso martinis seasonal? ›

While some co*cktail trends seem to enjoy seasonal popularity, like that of the Aperol Spritz in the summertime, the Espresso Martini can be enjoyed any time of the year. It's also a simple, classic recipe.

What's the difference between Black Russian and Espresso Martini? ›

A Black Russian co*cktail is traditionally made with two main ingredients namely; vodka and coffee liqueur. The Espresso Martini, however, takes the coffee infused flavour and strength one notch further by adding a shot of freshly brewed espresso.

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