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Classic Peppermint Espresso Martini with Chocolate Rim

A close-up of a peppermint espresso martini with a thick foam top, rimmed with crushed candy canes.

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Make this festive Peppermint Espresso Martini for your next holiday gathering. This recipe combines rich espresso, cool peppermint flavor, and a chocolate rim for an elevated winter cocktail.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz Vodka
  • 1 oz Freshly Brewed Espresso, cooled
  • 0.5 oz Coffee Liqueur (like Kahlua)
  • 0.5 oz Peppermint Schnapps
  • 0.5 oz Cream Liqueur (like Bailey’s or RumChata)
  • Ice
  • For the Rim: Chocolate Syrup and Crushed Peppermint Candies
  • For Garnish: 3 Coffee Beans or a Peppermint Candy

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rim: Pour a small amount of chocolate syrup onto a shallow plate. On a second plate, spread the crushed peppermint candies. Dip the rim of your chilled martini glass first into the chocolate syrup, then into the crushed peppermint to coat. Set the glass aside.
  2. Combine ingredients: Add the vodka, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and cream liqueur into a cocktail shaker.
  3. Add ice: Fill the shaker two-thirds full with ice.
  4. Shake well: Seal the shaker tightly and shake hard for about 20 to 30 seconds until the shaker is very cold. This creates the signature foam.
  5. Strain and serve: Double strain the mixture into your prepared martini glass.
  6. Garnish: Place three coffee beans on top of the foam or add a small peppermint candy to the rim. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For a richer, creamier texture, use a high-quality cream liqueur.
  • If you do not have peppermint schnapps, you can substitute with a few drops of peppermint extract mixed with simple syrup.
  • Chill your martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before mixing for the best presentation.
  • To make a mocktail version, substitute the vodka and liqueurs with cold brew concentrate, vanilla extract, peppermint simple syrup, and tonic water or cream.

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