These Peppermint Espresso Martinis are the perfect treat for coffee lovers. They combine smooth espresso with a splash of peppermint, making every sip festive and fun!
Making them is a breeze! Just shake up your ingredients and watch your friends’ eyes light up. I love sipping these during the holidays while cozying up with a blanket. ☕️🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: A standard spirit for this cocktail. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using a flavored vodka like vanilla for an extra twist.
Coffee Liqueur: Kahlúa is the popular choice, but if you’re avoiding it, you can use other brands, or even make a homemade version with brewed coffee and sugar.
Freshly Brewed Espresso: Espresso is key for its rich flavor. If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee will work, just make sure it’s concentrated.
Peppermint Schnapps: This adds the festive peppermint flavor. If you don’t have it, use peppermint extract at a smaller amount for a similar effect.
Simple Syrup: You can easily make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste!
How Do I Get Those Perfectly Rimmed Glasses?
Rimming your cocktail glasses adds a fun touch! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by wetting the rim: Use water or a bit of peppermint schnapps on the edge of the glass.
- Dip the wet rim into crushed peppermint candies, ensuring an even coat.
- Be gentle to avoid losing any candy pieces. This adds flavor and a nice crunch!
- Set the glasses aside and let the candies stick while you prepare the cocktail.
Peppermint Espresso Martinis
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso, cooled
- ½ oz peppermint schnapps
- ½ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Crushed peppermint candies (for rimming glass)
- Chocolate shavings or coffee beans (for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Ice cubes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a bit of time brewing the espresso and mixing the ingredients together. It’s a quick and delightful drink to whip up for yourself or to impress guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glasses:
Start by preparing your martini glasses. To create a festive rim, wet the edge of each glass with a little water or peppermint schnapps. Then, dip the rim into crushed peppermint candies to coat it nicely. Set the glasses aside so the rim can set while you mix your drink.
2. Brew Your Espresso:
Now, brew some fresh espresso. Once it’s ready, let it cool to room temperature. This will prevent it from melting the ice too quickly when you mix your drink.
3. Mix Your Ingredients:
Grab a cocktail shaker and add the vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, peppermint schnapps, simple syrup, and a handful of ice cubes. Adding the ice helps chill the mixture and create a frothy texture.
4. Shake It Up!
Put the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the mix is well chilled and frothy on top. You want it to be nice and cold!
5. Strain Into Glasses:
Once shaken, strain the mixture into your prepared martini glasses. This will allow for a smooth finish without any ice in the glass.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Time to make these drinks look as good as they taste! Garnish each cocktail with chocolate shavings or a couple of coffee beans on top. If you want, add a fresh mint leaf for that extra touch of color and flavor!
7. Serve:
Enjoy your festive Peppermint Espresso Martinis immediately! They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening.
Can I Use Decaf Espresso for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid caffeine, feel free to use decaf espresso. The flavor will still be delightful, and you can enjoy the cocktail without the caffeine kick.
What Can I Substitute for Peppermint Schnapps?
If you don’t have peppermint schnapps, you can use peppermint extract, but use only a few drops as it’s much stronger. Alternatively, a splash of vanilla liqueur can add a nice flavor twist without the mint.
How Do I Store Leftover Martinis?
If you have any leftovers, you can store the mixture (without ice) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. When you’re ready to serve, shake with fresh ice to chill and mix again!
Can I Prepare These Martinis in Advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can mix the ingredients in advance and keep them in the fridge, but refrain from shaking with ice until just before serving. This keeps it frothy and chilled!