If you’ve ever wished your winter nightcap could capture the magic of a holiday coffee shop treat, the Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini is about to become your favorite festive cocktail. Rich espresso, velvety chocolate, a hit of cool peppermint, and the deep warmth of vodka all come together in a martini glass, creating a drink that’s indulgent, sophisticated, and totally cozy. Whether you’re hosting a holiday get-together or simply treating yourself, this twist on a classic espresso martini delivers both comfort and sparkle in every sip.

Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini recipe is refreshingly straightforward, but every ingredient plays a starring role. You’ll notice how each component contributes not just flavor but also the right balance of texture, aroma, and that elegant layered look.

Vodka: Classic and clean, vodka forms the boozy backbone for a perfectly smooth sip.
Kahlua or coffee liqueur: This adds deep coffee complexity and a little sweetness—don’t skip it!
Hot espresso, strong coffee, or instant: Hot and robust, this fresh brew is key for that iconic espresso martini foam and a genuinely bold flavor.
Creamer of choice (dairy or non-dairy): Choose your favorite for a creamy, luscious texture; oat, almond, or classic half & half all work beautifully.
Cocoa or cacao powder: This is your mocha magic—rich and chocolatey for that coffeehouse swirl.
Peppermint extract: Just a splash brings a frosty-cool accent that ties the whole martini together.
Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla rounds out the flavors and boosts the dessert vibes.
Optional—Melted chocolate and crushed candy canes: For rimming the glass, making every sip a little celebration.
Garnish—Cacao powder or chopped chocolate and coffee beans: For a pretty finish and an extra hit of rich flavor.

How to Make Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

The first, and honestly most satisfying, part of this recipe is just getting everything together. Lay out your vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso or coffee, cocoa powder, extracts, creamer, and whatever garnishes call to you. The anticipation builds, and your kitchen starts to feel like a cozy café.

Step 2: Prep Your Espresso and Rim Your Glass

Brew your espresso or make a strong cup of coffee so it’s hot and fragrant. As it cools slightly, measure out your vodka, Kahlua, cocoa powder, and both extracts. If you want to take things up a notch, melt a little chocolate and dip the rim of your martini glass before rolling it in crushed peppermint candy canes for that festive sparkle and crunch.

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Shaker

Now, fill your cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, creamer, cocoa powder, vanilla, peppermint extract, and finally your hot coffee or espresso. Adding the espresso last helps keep all the flavors bright while the ice chills everything down and gives you that signature froth.

Step 4: Shake It Up!

Here’s where the magic happens—seal your shaker tight, and shake like you mean it for 15 to 30 seconds. This is your chance to build up that glorious foam, so don’t be shy. The extra effort really pays off with a luxuriously creamy, aerated martini.

Step 5: Strain, Garnish, and Savor

Strain your perfectly mixed Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini into your prepared (and hopefully chilled) glass. Top with a dusting of cacao powder, chopped chocolate, or a few coffee beans. Each glass looks stunning and will have everyone swooning, guaranteed.

How to Serve Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini

Garnishes

The right garnish transforms your Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini from a simple cocktail into a festive centerpiece. A swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or a few glossy coffee beans on top will give your drink café-style flair. For the holidays, nothing beats that rim of crushed candy cane or even a mini peppermint stick as a stir.

Side Dishes

Pair your martini with sweet nibbles like chocolate biscotti, peppermint bark, or even a plate of buttery shortbread. These treats amplify both the chocolate and minty notes of your drink, turning any evening into something extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Craft a Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini bar by setting out toppings, syrups, and even alternate creamers so guests can customize their drinks. Serve in tiny coupe glasses for an elegant party vibe or garnish with a chocolate-dipped stir stick for a fun, interactive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra cocktail (lucky you!), pour it into a sealed jar and tuck it into the fridge. It’ll stay nicely drinkable for up to a day, though the foam will settle—just give it a good shake with ice before serving again to revive that frothy layer.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze your Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini for a boozy slushie treat. Pour leftovers into an ice cube tray, then blend with a splash of fresh espresso later for a grown-up frozen dessert that’s irresistible on a cozy night in.

Reheating

The martini is delightful cold and frothy, but if you do want to warm it up (or just take the chill off), briefly microwave in a heatproof cup—just enough to remove the fridge chill. Then shake again with ice to bring back that silky foam before straining into a glass.

FAQs

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini?

Absolutely! Swap the vodka and coffee liqueur for extra strong brewed coffee, a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk, and chocolate syrup. Add the peppermint and vanilla extracts as usual for that classic flavor.

What’s the best way to get that signature foam on top?

The trick is all in the shake—the harder and longer you shake, the more frothy your Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini will be. Using freshly brewed, still-hot coffee or espresso also helps create a luscious crema.

Can I prepare a big batch for a party?

Yes! Mix all ingredients together (except ice and garnishes) in a pitcher and refrigerate. When ready to serve, shake individual servings over ice to create the foam, then strain into glasses and garnish as you like.

Which creamer works best for this martini?

Honestly, it’s all about preference. Dairy, almond, oat, or coconut all have distinct qualities—dairy is rich and classic, while non-dairy options keep things lighter and bring subtle flavor notes of their own.

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?

You sure can! Use about one and a half ounces of water mixed with your favorite instant coffee granules for a concentrated coffee flavor that mixes seamlessly into the martini.

Final Thoughts

There’s something genuinely magical about mixing up a Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini—it’s like a little taste of the holidays in a glass, any time you want. Give it a try the next time you crave something show-stoppingly delicious, and don’t forget to share with friends. Cheers to cozy evenings, twinkling lights, and the perfect winter cocktail!

Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 25 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the perfect combination of espresso, mint, and chocolate with this delightful Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini recipe. It’s a refreshing and decadent cocktail that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Vodka:

1 ounce

Kahlua or Coffee Liqueur:

1 1/2 ounces

Hot Espresso or Coffee:

1 1/2 ounces

Creamer of Choice:

1 1/2 ounces, dairy-free or regular

Cocoa or Cacao Powder:

1/2 teaspoon

Peppermint Extract:

1/4 teaspoon

Vanilla Extract:

1/4 teaspoon

Optional:

Melted chocolate and crushed candy canes to rim your glass

Garnish:

Cacao powder or chopped chocolate and coffee beans

Instructions

Gather your ingredients – Prepare all the necessary ingredients and tools.
Prepare your espresso or coffee – Measure out the vodka, Kahlua, cocoa powder, and flavor extracts. Rim martini glasses with crushed peppermint candy if desired.
Add ingredients to cocktail shaker – Fill the shaker with ice, then add all ingredients, pouring the hot espresso last.
Shake it up! – Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for 15-30 seconds to create a foamy texture.
Strain into a glass – Pour the mixture into a chilled glass, garnish as desired, and enjoy!

Notes

For rimming the glass with melted chocolate and crushed candy canes, melt chocolate and dip the rim of the glass in it. Then dip the chocolate-covered rim into crushed candy canes for a festive touch.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Cocktail
Method: Shaken
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 drink
Calories: 150
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 10mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini, Cocktail, Holiday Drink, Espresso Martini Recipe