Get ready for a fun twist on a classic drink with these Peppermint Espresso Martinis! They mix rich espresso with a burst of peppermint flavor, perfect for cozy evenings.
These drinks are not just pretty; they also give you a caffeine kick and a holiday vibe! I love to make a batch for friends—nothing brings people together like coffee and a little cheer! ☕️✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A smooth vodka is key to keeping this drink balanced. If you’re looking for a twist, consider using vanilla vodka for a sweeter profile.
Coffee Liqueur: Kahlúa is the classic choice. If you don’t have it, try Any coffee-flavored liqueur. In a pinch, you can also mix brewed coffee with a splash of sugar to mimic the flavor.
Espresso: I recommend using freshly brewed espresso if possible, but strong coffee works if you don’t have an espresso machine. Just make sure it’s strong enough to stand out!
Peppermint Schnapps: This adds a holiday flair. If you want less sweetness, you could swap with a peppermint extract, using just a drop or two.
Simple Syrup: Adjust sweetness based on your taste! You could use agave syrup or even maple syrup for a different flavor.
Whipped Cream: Use store-bought or make your own! For a lighter touch, skip it or use a dairy-free whipped topping.
How Do You Make Sure Your Espresso Martinis are Frothy?
Achieving that beautiful froth on top of your martini is crucial. The key is in how you shake it.
- Use ice cubes—don’t skimp! They chill the drink and create the froth as you shake.
- Shake a little more vigorously than usual. This adds air and gives you that lovely foam.
- If you want extra froth, add a splash of egg white or aquafaba before shaking. Just make sure to shake it well to emulsify!
How to Make Peppermint Espresso Martinis
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (hot or cooled)
- 1/2 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1/4 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Crushed candy canes (for rimming and garnish)
- Chocolate coffee beans or chocolate chips (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful drink takes about 10 minutes to prepare! You’ll spend a few minutes setting up your glasses and mixing the ingredients, then just shake, strain, and garnish. Perfect for a quick festive treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glasses:
Start by getting your cocktail glasses ready. Moisten the rim of each glass using a little water or some crushed peppermint schnapps to help the candy stick. Next, dip the rims into some crushed candy canes for that festive look. Set the glasses aside to let them dry and set.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Grab your cocktail shaker and combine the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, peppermint schnapps, and simple syrup in it. Make sure everything is nicely combined for the best flavor!
3. Shake It Up:
Fill your shaker with ice (don’t skip this step—it keeps the drink cold and frothy!) and shake it vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You’ll want it to get nice and chilled. The more you shake, the frothier it becomes!
4. Strain into Glasses:
Now it’s time to strain the mixture evenly into your prepared martini glasses. This helps remove any ice fragments and gives you a smooth drink.
5. Add the Whipped Cream:
Take a moment to gently top each martini with a layer of whipped cream. This adds a lovely creamy texture to each sip!
6. Garnish Your Martinis:
For the finishing touch, sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top of the whipped cream. You can also add a few chocolate coffee beans or chocolate chips for an extra treat!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Peppermint Espresso Martinis immediately and enjoy the wonderful holiday flavors with friends and family!
Can I Use Decaf Espresso for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to enjoy the flavors without the caffeine boost, decaf espresso will work just fine. Just ensure it’s brewed strong enough to maintain that rich coffee flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Peppermint Schnapps?
If you don’t have peppermint schnapps on hand, you can use peppermint extract instead. Just a drop or two will do, as it’s much more concentrated; you don’t want to overpower your martini!
How Do I Store Leftover Martinis?
Since this drink is best enjoyed fresh, it’s not recommended to store leftovers. However, if you do have some, cover the glasses and refrigerate for up to a day. Give it a gentle stir or a shake before serving to reintroduce the froth!
Can I Make This Recipe Non-Alcoholic?
Yes! You can replace the vodka and coffee liqueur with a combination of strong brewed coffee and a splash of flavored syrup, like vanilla or peppermint syrup. This will give you a festive mocktail that’s just as delicious!
