Save to Pinterest A festive, creamy cocktail blending espresso, vodka, and peppermint, finished with a chocolate peppermint rim—perfect for holiday celebrations.
I first served this at a winter party and it was an instant hit with friends and family.
Ingredients
- Vodka: 4 oz plain or vanilla, use gluten-free if needed
- Kahlua or other coffee liqueur: 2 oz
- Fresh brewed espresso: 3 oz, cooled, or strong cold brew coffee
- Half & half: 2 oz, or dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer (e.g., Nutpods or Califia Farms) for dairy-free
- Peppermint extract: ¼ tsp
- Chocolate syrup: enough for rimming glasses
- Crushed candy canes: 2 tbsp
- Espresso beans: 6, 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 shaker with ice:
- Fill a cocktail shaker 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 and serve:
- Garnish each drink with 3 espresso beans. Serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings joy and warmth when shared with family during holiday seasons.
Notes
For a mocha twist, add 2 teaspoons of chocolate syrup to the shaker along with the other ingredients. To make dairy free, substitute half & half with a dairy-free creamer such as Nutpods or Califia Farms Peppermint Mocha. For extra festivity, add a small candy cane as a stirrer. Nutrition facts do not include the chocolate peppermint rim.
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.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these festive martinis as a perfect holiday treat that is quick to prepare and sure to impress.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this cocktail dairy-free?
Yes, substitute half & half with dairy-free peppermint mocha creamers like Nutpods or Califia Farms for a dairy-free version.
- → What type of coffee is best to use?
A fresh brewed espresso or strong cold brew coffee works best to maintain a rich coffee flavor.
- → How do I create the chocolate peppermint rim?
Dip the glass rims in chocolate syrup, then coat with crushed candy canes for a festive, flavorful garnish.
- → Can I adjust the peppermint flavor?
Yes, add or reduce peppermint extract according to your taste for a more or less minty finish.
- → Is it possible to prepare this cocktail ahead of time?
Shake and chill the mixture in advance, but rim the glasses and garnish just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.