My obsession with finding the best Espresso Martini never really ends. You can find this popular cocktail on just about every bar menu now, but I wanted to create a festive holiday version.

These Peppermint Espresso Martinis were inspired by a batch of holiday cookies I had made with the same flavor combination – coffee, chocolate and peppermint. These flavors meld beautifully together for baked goods and even more in this cocktail for after-dinner entertaining or holiday gatherings.

Why You’ll Love Peppermint Espresso Martinis

• A perfect festive twist on the classic Espresso Martini
• Balanced with peppermint, rich coffee and a hint of chocolate
• Great for holiday parties, Christmas cocktail hours or New Year’s Eve
• Easy to shake up for last-minute entertaining

How to Make Peppermint Simple Syrup

Having a batch of peppermint simple syrup ready in your refrigerator means you can whip up these holiday martinis anytime friends or family stop by. It’s also great for adding a minty finish to hot chocolate or your daily cup of joe.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

Step-by-step instructions:

• Add sugar and water to a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
• Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture just begins to simmer.
• Remove from heat and let sit for 1 minute.
• Stir in peppermint extract.
• Let cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Peppermint simple syrup will last in the refrigerator for a month or longer.

Tips for Getting the Pest Espresso Martini Foam

If you love that signature creamy espresso martini foam on top, here’s how to make it happen:

Use fresh espresso from a machine. Freshly brewed espresso has natural crema – the velvety foam that forms on top. That helps build a taller, longer-lasting foam when shaken. While I generally use store-bought espresso or cold brew, it doesn’t create the same result.

Choose larger ice cubes. Large cubes melt more slowly and allow you to shake harder and longer without over-diluting the drink. The vigorous shaking is what traps air in the mixture and creates the thick froth.

Shake longer than you think. It’s going to take longer than 15 to 20 seconds. Shake aggressively until your shaker feels ice-cold and frosty, almost uncomfortable to hold.

If you’re looking for other festive cocktails for holiday entertaining, you might want to try my Cranberry Old Fashioned or Pear Prosecco Cocktail.