Pin this A festive, creamy cocktail blending espresso, vodka, and peppermint, finished with a chocolate peppermint rim—perfect for holiday celebrations.
This cocktail has quickly become my go-to for holiday parties because it perfectly balances rich espresso and sweet peppermint.
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 ex 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 with ice:
- 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.
Pin this This recipe always brings smiles and cheers when I serve it to friends and family during the holidays.
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
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 295 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 1 g
Pin this Enjoy this festive cocktail chilled and fresh for the best peppermint espresso experience.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What ingredients create the peppermint flavor?
Fresh peppermint extract combined with crushed candy canes on the rim gives the drink its distinct minty aroma and flavor.
- → Can dairy-free alternatives be used?
Yes, dairy-free creamers like peppermint mocha-flavored versions work well to maintain creaminess while avoiding dairy.
- → How is the chocolate peppermint rim prepared?
Dip the glass rims first in chocolate syrup, then into crushed candy canes, creating a festive flavored coating.
- → What type of coffee works best for this drink?
Freshly brewed espresso cooled down or strong cold brew coffee provides a bold coffee base with rich flavor.
- → How long does preparation take?
It takes about 5 minutes to prepare, including assembling ingredients and rimming glasses.
- → Are there options to add a chocolate twist?
Adding a couple of teaspoons of chocolate syrup into the shaker creates a mocha-inspired variation.