Every year when the holiday season rolls around, I get drawn to Peppermint Espresso Martinis.
There’s something about the holidays that makes peppermint and coffee feel extra comforting, and that’s exactly how these Peppermint Espresso Martinis found a place in my kitchen.
I first made them on a cold December night when I wanted a little treat after dinner, and the moment I mixed that chilled espresso with a splash of vodka, Kahlua, and a touch of peppermint, I knew this would become my go-to holiday drink.
This martini has all the things I love during the season—rich espresso, creamy sweetness, a light peppermint kick, and just enough sparkle to make any gathering feel special.
It’s quick to shake up, it feels festive without being fussy, and it’s perfect for Christmas parties, winter dinners, or those nights when you just want something fun to sip by the tree.
If you enjoy simple holiday drinks with big flavor, this one is going to be your new favorite. Let’s make a batch together.
Contents
What Makes This Recipe Great?
- Takes only a few minutes
- Simple ingredients
- No fancy shaker or tools needed
- Big holiday flavor with minimal effort
- Perfect for Christmas, winter parties, or a weekend dinner drink
What Liquor Is Best for an Espresso Martini?
Vodka is classic for espresso martinis. It gives a clean, smooth finish and lets the espresso and peppermint shine. If you want more flavor, vanilla vodka is great too. Some people use rum or tequila for a stronger drink, but vodka gives the most balanced mix.
How to Make Peppermint Espresso Martini?
Recipe Overview
This peppermint espresso martini recipe is a fun holiday cocktail made with espresso, Kahlua, peppermint, and cream for a creamy winter drink.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Course: Cocktail / Drink
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Yield: 2 drinks
- Calories: About 245 per serving
- Serving Size: 1 martini
Equipment (Suggested)
- Cocktail shaker or mason jar with lid
- Measuring jigger or tablespoons
- Small bowl for melted chocolate
- Martini glasses
Ingredients
- 4 oz vodka (vanilla vodka works great; choose gluten-free if needed)
- 2 oz Kahlua or any coffee liqueur
- 3 oz fresh brewed espresso, cooled
- 3 oz vanilla or peppermint creamer
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract
- Melted chocolate for the rim (optional)
- Crushed peppermint candies (optional)
Ingredient Notes
- Vodka: Regular or vanilla. Vanilla vodka adds a softer sweetness.
- Kahlua: Gives the classic espresso martini flavor. Any coffee liqueur works.
- Espresso: Fresh is best. If you don’t have espresso, use cold brew concentrate.
- Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way.
- Creamer: Makes the drink smooth and dessert-like.
- Chocolate Rim: Great for holiday parties and adds a fun finish.
Instructions
1. Prepare the glasses:
Dip the rims into melted chocolate. Press into crushed peppermint candies. Set aside to dry.
2. Mix the drink:
Add vodka, Kahlua, cooled espresso, creamer, and peppermint extract into a shaker.
3. Shake:
Add ice and shake until cold. If you don’t have a shaker, use a mason jar with a tight lid.
4. Pour:
Strain into martini glasses.
5. Serve:
Add a sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top or a tiny candy cane for a cute holiday touch.
Tips for Success
- Cool your espresso before shaking to keep the ice from melting too fast.
- Shake well to get that foamy top that espresso martinis are known for.
- Use cold brew concentrate if you want a stronger coffee taste.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 245
- Carbs: 17g
- Sugar: 15g
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Alcohol: About 1.5 servings
Variations & Substitutions
✔️Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini: Add 1 tsp cocoa powder before shaking.
✔️Peppermint Espresso Martini with Cold Brew: Replace espresso with 3 oz cold brew concentrate.
✔️Light Version: Use sugar-free creamer.
✔️Stronger Drink: Add an extra ounce of vodka.
✔️Peppermint Espresso Martinis in a Pitcher:
Mix all ingredients ahead without ice. Chill for 2–4 hours. Shake each serving with ice before pouring.
✔️Rum or Tequila: Add a different twist. Rum makes it sweeter; tequila makes it sharper.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Christmas cookies, truffles, or chocolate bark.
- Add crushed candy cane around the rim for a fun winter party touch.
- Pour into chilled cocktail glasses for the best texture.
- Great for holiday gatherings, Christmas Eve dinners, or a winter brunch cocktail.
Storing Tips
✅Mix the drink base (without ice) up to 24 hours in advance.
✅Keep in a sealed jar in the fridge.
✅Shake with ice right before serving.
- Keep peppermint light for balanced flavor.
- Great for making big batches for holiday parties.
- Store leftover mixture in the fridge for next-day drinks.
FAQ
Can I Make This Without Alcohol?
Yes. Use cold brew, peppermint creamer, chocolate syrup, and a splash of vanilla.
Can I Use Instant Espresso?
Yes, but make it strong for the best flavor.
Can I Use Peppermint Vodka?
Yes. Replace regular vodka and skip the peppermint extract.
What Pairs Well With An Espresso Martini?
Chocolate desserts, cheesecake bites, brownies, or anything with peppermint.
Can I Make This Into A Big Batch?
Yes. Mix everything except ice in a pitcher. Chill. Shake each serving right before pouring.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a holiday cocktail that brings together espresso, peppermint, and a touch of creaminess, these Peppermint Espresso Martinis are the perfect pick.
I love making these for Christmas gatherings, winter parties, or nights when I want something fun and cozy.
Try it out and tell me how it turned out for you—I always love hearing what you create in your kitchen.
Peppermint Espresso Martinis
Ingredients
- 4 oz vodka vanilla vodka works great; choose gluten-free if needed
- 2 oz Kahlua or any coffee liqueur
- 3 oz fresh brewed espresso cooled
- 3 oz vanilla or peppermint creamer
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract
- Melted chocolate for the rim optional
- Crushed peppermint candies optional
Instructions
Prepare the glasses:
- Dip the rims into melted chocolate. Press into crushed peppermint candies. Set aside to dry.
Mix the drink:
- Add vodka, Kahlua, cooled espresso, creamer, and peppermint extract into a shaker.
Shake:
- Add ice and shake until cold. If you don’t have a shaker, use a mason jar with a tight lid.
Pour:
- Strain into martini glasses.
Serve:
- Add a sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top or a tiny candy cane for a cute holiday touch.
Notes
- Keep peppermint light for balanced flavor.
- Great for making big batches for holiday parties.
- Store leftover mixture in the fridge for next-day drinks.
Welcome to alljuicecorner.com, your go-to resource for all things juice! I’m Marina, the passionate juice enthusiast and health advocate behind this vibrant community. My journey into the world of juicing began five years ago, sparked by a desire to embrace a healthier lifestyle and explore the nutritional power of fruits and vegetables. I spent countless hours researching, experimenting with different combinations, and understanding the science behind each sip.
I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the juice table. My mission is simple: to share the joy and health benefits of juicing with as many people as possible. Through “alljuicecorner.com,” I aim to demystify the world of juicing, offering easy-to-follow recipes, tips on selecting the right produce, and insights into the health benefits of various ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned juicer or just starting, this blog is designed to be your companion on this delicious journey.
