This Peppermint Mocha Martini is a festive twist on your favorite holiday drink! It’s creamy, chocolatey, and has a refreshing mint kick that’s perfect for celebrations.
Not gonna lie, I may have had one too many while wrapping gifts! Just shake up some coffee, chocolate liqueur, and peppermint schnapps—easy peasy and oh-so-tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Vanilla-flavored vodka adds a nice sweetness to this drink. If you don’t have it, regular vodka works too! Just adjust the sweetness with a bit more crème de cacao or peppermint schnapps.
Coffee Liqueur: Kahlúa is a classic choice. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute with coffee syrup or chilled espresso sweetened to taste.
Crème de Cacao: This chocolate liqueur is essential for the chocolaty flavor. If unavailable, you can use chocolate syrup instead, though the drink may not be as smooth.
Peppermint Schnapps: This gives the martini its minty kick! If you don’t like peppermint, you can use vanilla extract or omit it altogether for a more chocolatey flavor.
Half-and-Half/Heavy Cream: For creaminess, you can substitute with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or almond milk for a lighter touch.
How Do I Get the Perfect Rim on My Martini Glass?
Rimming the glass is a fun way to add flavor and a decorative touch to your drink! Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start by chilling your martini glasses—this helps keep the drink cold.
- Mist the rim with water or chocolate syrup to help the coating stick.
- Dip the rim into crushed chocolate or candy cane shavings, giving it a gentle twist.
- Make sure it’s evenly coated for a nice look and taste!
Take your time with this step for the best results. A beautiful rim enhances the overall presentation and flavor of your Peppermint Mocha Martini!
How to Make a Peppermint Mocha Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka (vanilla-flavored preferred)
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 1 oz crème de cacao (chocolate liqueur)
- 1 oz peppermint schnapps
- 1 oz half-and-half or heavy cream
- Crushed candy canes, for garnish
- Chocolate shavings or syrup, for rimming
- Fresh mint sprig, for garnish
- Candy cane, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail will take about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to assemble, making it a perfect choice for impromptu gatherings or festive celebrations!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill the Glasses:
Start by chilling your martini glasses. You can do this by placing them in the freezer for a few minutes or filling them with ice water while you prepare the cocktail. Chilling the glasses keeps your drink nice and cold!
2. Prepare the Glass Rim:
Next, it’s time to make your drink look extra fancy! Lightly moisten the rim of each glass with water or a little chocolate syrup. Then, dip the rim into crushed chocolate shavings or syrup to coat it. Set them aside for now.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice. Now, pour in the vodka, coffee liqueur, crème de cacao, peppermint schnapps, and half-and-half or heavy cream. Make sure all the ingredients are in there!
4. Shake, Shake, Shake!
Put the lid on the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. You want the mixture to be well chilled and frothy, so give it some good shakes!
5. Strain the Cocktail:
Carefully strain the mixture into your prepared martini glasses. You should see a lovely creamy, chocolatey color filling the glass.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of each drink for a festive look. Then, garnish with a fresh mint sprig and hang a candy cane on the rim of each glass for extra cheer!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Peppermint Mocha Martinis immediately, and enjoy the smiles as your guests sip on this delicious holiday treat!
This cocktail perfectly combines creamy chocolate, rich coffee, and refreshing peppermint. The beautiful presentation with a chocolate-rimmed glass and candy cane garnish will surely delight everyone at your holiday gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Liqueurs?
Absolutely! If you don’t have crème de cacao, you can substitute it with chocolate syrup for a sweet touch. Likewise, any coffee liqueur works; feel free to try different brands for varied flavors.
Is This Drink Non-Alcoholic?
While this martini is traditionally alcoholic, you can make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the liqueurs and substituting with strong brewed coffee, chocolate milk, and a splash of peppermint extract!
How Should I Store Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover mixers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Cream products like half-and-half should be used within a few days, while liqueurs can last for months if sealed properly.
Can I Make This Drink Ahead of Time?
Preparing ahead is a bit tricky since it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, you can mix the liqueurs and cream in advance, shake when ready to serve, and pour into chilled glasses for a quick assembly!