Peppermint Espresso Martinis: A Festive, Velvety Sip with Holiday Sophistication

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Peppermint Espresso Martinis are the perfect blend of holiday charm and refined cocktail luxury. With rich espresso, smooth vodka, and a cool peppermint finish, this drink feels both indulgent and invigorating—ideal for festive gatherings or cosy winter evenings. I’ve prepared peppermint espresso cocktails for holiday parties, and they always become the signature drink of the night. Once, when I needed to soften the peppermint flavour, I added a splash of almond milk to the shaker, and the result was surprisingly silky and pleasant, proving how flexible this drink can be. The balance of bold coffee, sweet peppermint, and velvety creaminess creates an irresistible seasonal cocktail that feels celebratory from the first sip to the last. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated soirée or toasting near the fireplace, this martini brings elegance, smooth flavour, and unmistakable holiday sparkle.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Vodka

Vodka forms the clean, crisp base of the martini, allowing the espresso and peppermint flavours to shine without overpowering sweetness.

Fresh Espresso

Fresh espresso delivers bold coffee richness and creates the signature velvety foam when shaken vigorously.

Coffee Liqueur

A splash of coffee liqueur deepens the espresso notes and adds smooth sweetness that balances the cocktail.

Peppermint Schnapps

Peppermint schnapps infuses the drink with a cool, festive mint flavour that perfectly complements the espresso.

Simple Syrup

Simple syrup sweetens the martini subtly, ensuring a balanced finish without bitterness.

Heavy Cream (Optional)

A small amount of heavy cream creates a rich, silky texture for a dessert-like twist.

Crushed Peppermint Candy

Crushed peppermint candy adds festive sparkle when used to rim the glass.

Ice

Ice is essential for chilling and aerating the drink, creating the iconic martini froth.

Directions

Begin by preparing your martini glasses. Lightly dip the rims into simple syrup, then roll them in crushed peppermint candy to create a decorative holiday edge. Set the glasses aside to allow the rimming to firm slightly.

Prepare a fresh shot of espresso and allow it to cool for a minute or two—warm espresso helps create a beautiful foam when shaken but should not be scalding. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, fresh espresso, coffee liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and simple syrup. If you prefer a creamier cocktail, add a splash of heavy cream at this stage.

Seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds. This step is essential for creating the signature espresso martini foam. Strain the mixture into the prepared glasses using a fine-mesh strainer for extra smoothness.

Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with a peppermint stick or three coffee beans for a polished finish.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This recipe yields two martinis. Preparation takes about 5 minutes once the espresso is brewed. Total time is approximately 10 minutes, making it a quick yet impressive cocktail for gatherings.

Storage/reheating

Espresso martinis are best made fresh and enjoyed immediately. You can prepare the espresso ahead of time and chill it, but avoid storing the assembled drink, as the foam dissipates quickly. Peppermint-rimmed glasses may be prepared up to one hour in advance.

Variations and Customizations

Creamy Peppermint Latte Martini

Add extra heavy cream for a rich, dessert-like cocktail reminiscent of a peppermint latte.

Chocolate Peppermint Espresso

Drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass or add a splash of chocolate liqueur for a mocha twist.

Vanilla Peppermint Espresso

Add a few drops of vanilla extract to soften the mint and enhance sweetness.

Spiked Candy Cane Martini

Use peppermint vodka instead of schnapps for a stronger mint presence.

Irish Peppermint Espresso

Add Irish cream liqueur for a luxurious, creamy finish.

Espresso Mocktail Version

Skip the alcohol entirely and shake espresso, peppermint syrup, and cream for a festive non-alcoholic drink.

Caramel Mint Espresso

Add a spoonful of caramel syrup for a smooth, buttery counterpoint to the peppermint.

FAQs

Can I substitute brewed coffee for espresso?

Yes, but espresso provides the best foam and strongest coffee flavour.

How do I get a thick foam on top?

Shake vigorously with plenty of ice to aerate the espresso.

Is peppermint schnapps very strong?

It has a bold flavour; adjust amount to taste.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of schnapps?

Yes, but use only a tiny amount, as extract is highly concentrated.

Do I need to rim the glass with peppermint?

No, but it adds festive charm and a sweet crunch.

Can I make this drink dairy-free?

Yes, omit cream or use almond or coconut milk.

Can I make a larger batch?

Yes, multiply the ingredients and shake in smaller portions for best foam.

Can I use decaf espresso?

Absolutely; it won’t impact the flavour or texture.

Should the espresso be hot or cold?

Slightly warm is ideal for maximum foam.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, increase or decrease simple syrup to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Peppermint Espresso Martinis blend rich coffee, cool peppermint, and smooth spirits into a festive, elegant cocktail perfect for the holiday season. With their velvety texture and refreshing finish, these martinis strike the ideal balance between indulgence and sophistication. They’re simple to prepare, endlessly customisable, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re toasting with friends or unwinding after a long winter day, this delightful cocktail brings a touch of holiday magic to every sip. Enjoy making it a seasonal tradition.

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