This peppermint espresso martini is bold, smooth, and unapologetically festive, with rich coffee flavor balanced by cool peppermint and a creamy frothy top. It’s indulgent, cozy, and exactly the kind of holiday cocktail that feels special from the very first sip.
This peppermint espresso martini is pure Christmas in a glass — cool, minty, a little indulgent, and perfect for cozy holiday nights. It’s a festive twist on the classic espresso martini , swapping in peppermint for that unmistakable candy-cane-meets-coffee vibe that feels right at home during December.
I love serving this one for Christmas gatherings, cookie swaps, or impromptu holiday nights in when twinkle lights are on, and the espresso machine is working overtime. The best part? It comes together in just five minutes with no fancy bar tools, delivering bold coffee flavor, a creamy frothy top, and just enough peppermint to feel special without overpowering the drink.
Another recipe you might enjoy is my chocolate espresso martini .
Variations to try
To add your own unique twist to this peppermint espresso martini, try one of these variations:
- Use a different alcohol. Instead of vodka, try bourbon or white tequila.
- Make it creamy. Add a splash of cream or Bailey’s Irish Cream.
- Turn it into a peppermint mocha espresso martini by adding a tiny bit of cocoa powder or a splash of chocolate liqueur.
Can I make a decaf version of a peppermint espresso martini?
Yep – almost. There is a teeny tiny bit of caffeine in Kahlua. But if you use decaf espresso, this cocktail will be nearly caffeine-free.
How can I turn this into a warm drink?
This cocktail tastes delicious when served warm. Simply add the ingredients to a pot (and a splash of cream, if you’d like) and heat until it’s steaming. Serve it in small mugs and don’t forget to add the candy cane rim!
Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
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Ingredients
- ▢ 2 ounces vodka
- ▢ 1 ounce Peppermint Coffee Liqueur (such as Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha)
- ▢ 1 ounce chilled espresso
- ▢ 1 ounce simple syrup
- ▢ Mini candy canes (for the rim and garnish)
Instructions
- If you’d like to rim your glass, dip the edge of the glass in a little simple syrup and then into a shallow bowl filled with crushed candy canes.
- Fill your cocktail shaker or jar half full with ice. Add the vodka, peppermint coffee liquor, espresso, and simple syrup. 2 ounces vodka, 1 ounce Peppermint Coffee Liqueur, 1 ounce chilled espresso, 1 ounce simple syrup
- Secure the lid then shake for about 30 seconds to work up the foam.
- Strain into two martini glasses and garnish the cocktails with a mini candy cane. Mini candy canes
Video
Notes
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here .
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More holiday cocktails
For more inspiration, check out all of our cocktail recipes !
Winter Pimm’s Cup
Classic Hot Toddy
Christmas Cranberry Margarita
Brandy Mulled Wine Recipe
Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce Peppermint Coffee Liqueur , such as Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha
- 1 ounce chilled espresso
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- Mini candy canes , for the rim and garnish
Instructions
- If you’d like to rim your glass, dip the edge of the glass in a little simple syrup and then into a shallow bowl filled with crushed candy canes.
- Fill your cocktail shaker or jar half full with ice. Add the vodka, peppermint coffee liquor, espresso, and simple syrup. 2 ounces vodka, 1 ounce Peppermint Coffee Liqueur, 1 ounce chilled espresso, 1 ounce simple syrup
- Secure the lid then shake for about 30 seconds to work up the foam.
- Strain into two martini glasses and garnish the cocktails with a mini candy cane. Mini candy canes
