Peppermint Espresso Creamy Cocktail

Featured in: Sweet & Calm Treats

This festive cocktail combines chilled espresso, smooth vodka, and a hint of peppermint for a refreshing and creamy experience. The chocolate-peppermint rim adds a delightful touch of sweetness and holiday spirit. Quickly shaken and garnished with espresso beans, this drink balances rich coffee flavors with cool mint, making it perfect for seasonal gatherings or cozy evenings.

Updated on Sun, 23 Nov 2025 12:27:00 GMT
Chocolate-rimmed Peppermint Espresso Martinis sparkle, a creamy cocktail perfect for holiday celebrations. Save
Chocolate-rimmed Peppermint Espresso Martinis sparkle, a creamy cocktail perfect for holiday celebrations. | moonthyme.com

A festive creamy cocktail blending espresso vodka and peppermint finished with a chocolate peppermint rim perfect for holiday celebrations.

This cocktail quickly became my go-to during the holiday season for its rich flavor and easy preparation.

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:
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:
Garnish each drink with 3 espresso beans. Serve immediately.
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Sharing this drink has made holiday gatherings extra special and memorable for my family.

Notes

Extra festivity can be added by including 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

Chilled Peppermint Espresso Martinis served in sugared glass, enticing with rich coffee and mint aromas. Save
Chilled Peppermint Espresso Martinis served in sugared glass, enticing with rich coffee and mint aromas. | moonthyme.com

Enjoy your Peppermint Espresso Martini as a delightful holiday treat that’s both refreshing and festive.

Recipe FAQ

What kind of coffee is best for this cocktail?

Use freshly brewed espresso or a strong cold brew coffee for a rich, bold flavor that complements the peppermint.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute half & half with a dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer like Nutpods or Califia Farms.

How do I create the chocolate peppermint rim?

Dip the glasses into chocolate syrup then coat the rim with crushed candy canes for a festive garnish.

Is it possible to add a mocha twist?

Adding two teaspoons of chocolate syrup to the shaker mixes in a mocha flavor without overpowering the peppermint.

What is the best way to garnish this drink?

Garnish with three espresso beans on top and optionally a small candy cane stirrer for extra festive appeal.

Peppermint Espresso Creamy Cocktail

Creamy peppermint and espresso blend shaken with vodka, topped with a chocolate peppermint rim.

Prep Time
5 min
0
Total Duration
5 min
Created by Lydia Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Portions 2 Serving Size

Diet Info Vegetarian Friendly, No Gluten

What You'll Need

Martini Ingredients

01 4 fl oz vodka (plain or vanilla, gluten-free if required)
02 2 fl oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlua)
03 3 fl oz freshly brewed espresso, cooled (or strong cold brew coffee)
04 2 fl oz half & half (or dairy-free peppermint mocha creamer alternative)
05 0.25 tsp peppermint extract

Chocolate Peppermint Rim & Garnish

01 Chocolate syrup for glass rims
02 2 tbsp crushed candy canes
03 6 espresso beans

How to Make It

Step 01

Prepare Glass Rims: Pour a thin layer of chocolate syrup onto a small plate. Dip rims of two martini glasses into syrup, then immediately into crushed candy canes. Set glasses aside.

Step 02

Add Ice to Shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.

Step 03

Combine Ingredients: Pour vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, half & half (or dairy-free creamer), and peppermint extract into the shaker.

Step 04

Shake Mixture: Shake vigorously for 60 seconds until well chilled and frothy.

Step 05

Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture evenly into the prepared martini glasses.

Step 06

Garnish: Place three espresso beans on top of each drink. Serve immediately.

Tools Needed

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Martini glasses
  • Small plates for rimming
  • Measuring jigger
  • Strainer

Allergen Details

Review every ingredient for allergens and ask a medical professional when unsure.
  • Contains dairy unless substituted with dairy-free creamer.
  • Contains alcohol and coffee.
  • May contain soy or tree nuts depending on creamer used; verify product labels.
  • Contains peppermint; avoid if sensitive to mint.

Nutrition Details (each serving)

These details are for reference only, and shouldn't replace healthcare advice.
  • Energy: 295
  • Fats: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 1 g