Meet the Easy Holiday Eggnog Espresso Martini—a rich and creamy drink with a caffeine kick to keep the festivities going. This eggnog martini is the perfect blend of bold espresso, creamy eggnog, and a hint of sweetness from coffee liqueur, all shaken to frothy perfection and served in a chilled martini glass. Let’s dive into the full recipe so you can whip up this holiday treat in no time.

2 eggnog espresso martinis in front of poinsettias

Ingredients to make an Eggnog Espresso Martini:

Ice: Ensures the martini is perfectly chilled and refreshing.
Espresso: Provides a bold, rich coffee flavor and a caffeine boost. Use freshly brewed espresso from your espresso machine for the best results. Alternatively, instant coffee or cold brew concentrate can work in a pinch.
Vanilla-Flavored Vodka: Adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the holiday spirit. Caramel vodka can also be used for an extra indulgent twist.
Coffee Liqueur: Adds sweetness and enhances the coffee notes of the espresso.
Eggnog: Brings a creamy, festive twist to the cocktail. Feel free to use your favorite eggnog, whether store-bought or homemade, for a personal touch.
Espresso Beans (for garnish): Adds a decorative touch and a nod to the coffee flavor.

Optional Toppings for Eggnog Espresso Martini:

Pinch of Ground Cinnamon: Optional, for a hint of warm spice and extra festive flair.
Sprinkle of Nutmeg: Optional, for a warm, aromatic topping.
Cinnamon Stick: Optional, for a festive garnish and added spice.

ingredients for eggnog espresso martinis

Instructions to craft an Eggnog Espresso Martini:

Prepare Your Cocktail Shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice to ensure your martinis are perfectly chilled.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and eggnog into the shaker. The espresso adds depth and energy, while the eggnog brings a creamy texture and festive twist.
Shake It Up: Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 20-30 seconds. This step is crucial for creating the frothy texture that makes an espresso martini so special.
Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture evenly into two chilled martini glasses. For the best presentation, tilt the glasses slightly as you pour to maintain the froth.
Add the Finishing Touch: Top each martini with three espresso beans. Traditionally, the beans represent health, wealth, and happiness—the perfect wish for the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Cocktail:

Festive Flair: The eggnog adds a seasonal twist, making this drink feel like a holiday celebration in a glass.
Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have an impressive eggnog cocktail ready in minutes.
Perfect Balance: The combination of espresso, coffee liqueur, and eggnog strikes the ideal balance between rich, creamy, and caffeinated—making it the ultimate pick-me-up for your holiday party.

horizontal image of eggnog espresso martinis

Tips for Success:

Chill Your Espresso: To avoid melting the ice too quickly, brew your espresso in advance using an espresso machine and let it cool completely before using it. If using instant coffee or cold brew concentrate, ensure it’s chilled as well.
Customize to Taste: If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, add an extra splash of espresso. For a sweeter martini, mix in a dash of simple syrup.
Serve Immediately: This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, while the froth is still beautifully settled on top.

Storing Leftovers:

While this cocktail is designed to be made fresh, you can mix the espresso, vanilla-flavored vodka, coffee liqueur, and eggnog in advance and store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, pour over ice in a shaker, shake well, and strain into glasses. Note that the froth won’t be as prominent if prepared ahead of time.

This holiday season, treat yourself and your guests to the indulgent flavors of an Easy Holiday Eggnog Espresso Martini. Whether you’re reminiscing over an eggnog latte, cozying up for a cozy night, or simply savoring your favorite holiday cocktails, this drink will keep the holiday spirit alive. Cheers to making merry memories and happy holidays! For ease, don’t forget to bookmark this recipe card for future celebrations.