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Easy Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe

Close-up of a peppermint espresso martini with a thick layer of foam and a rim coated in crushed candy canes.

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Make this festive Peppermint Espresso Martini for your next holiday gathering. This simple recipe combines rich espresso, coffee liqueur, and cool peppermint for a sophisticated 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 or Half-and-Half (for a creamy finish)
  • Ice cubes
  • Crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare your garnish: Pour crushed candy canes onto a small plate. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your chilled martini glass and gently dip the rim into the crushed candy canes to coat. Set the glass aside.
  2. Brew one shot of espresso and allow it to cool slightly.
  3. In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, peppermint schnapps, and cream.
  4. Fill the shaker three-quarters full with ice.
  5. Seal the shaker tightly and shake hard for 15 to 20 seconds. Vigorous shaking creates the signature foam.
  6. Strain the mixture into your prepared martini glass.
  7. Garnish with a few coffee beans or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings over the foam. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For the best foam, use freshly pulled espresso. If you do not have an espresso machine, use a strong cold brew concentrate.
  • If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the coffee liqueur slightly.
  • To make this a Peppermint Mocha Martini, add 0.25 oz of chocolate syrup to the shaker before shaking.

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