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Espresso Martini
DifficultyBeginner
Craft the perfect Espresso Martini with this sleek recipe using vodka, freshly brewed espresso, and coffee liqueur. A smooth, slightly sweet cocktail with a creamy foam top — ideal for after-dinner sipping or stylish late-night energy.
1ozfreshly brewed espresso (hot or cooled slightly)
½ozcoffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
¼ozsimple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
Ice
Garnish: 3 coffee beans (traditional for health, wealth & happiness)
1
Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool slightly (but not too much — warm helps with foam).
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup (if using).
Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds — this helps create the signature creamy foam.
Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
Carefully float 3 coffee beans on the foam for garnish.
Pairing Suggestions
2
Tiramisu or chocolate mousse
Espresso brownies or affogato
Vanilla bean panna cotta
Salted caramel bites
Dark chocolate truffles
The espresso martini’s rich bitterness and sweetness make it perfect with desserts or indulgent late-night snacks.
Tips & Notes
3
Fresh espresso is key — don’t substitute with instant or cold brew concentrate.
Shake hard — the foam is essential to the look and mouthfeel.
Want it stronger? Add an extra ¼ oz of vodka.
For a twist, try adding a dash of vanilla extract or using hazelnut liqueur instead of simple syrup.
If you don’t have an espresso machine, use strong Moka pot coffee.
Side Info
4
The Espresso Martini was invented in the 1980s by British bartender Dick Bradsell at a London bar. A model reportedly asked for something to “wake me up and f*** me up” — and this drink was born. It’s since become a staple in modern cocktail culture.
1ozfreshly brewed espresso (hot or cooled slightly)
½ozcoffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
¼ozsimple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
Ice
Garnish: 3 coffee beans (traditional for health, wealth & happiness)
Directions
1
Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool slightly (but not too much — warm helps with foam).
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup (if using).
Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds — this helps create the signature creamy foam.
Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
Carefully float 3 coffee beans on the foam for garnish.
Pairing Suggestions
2
Tiramisu or chocolate mousse
Espresso brownies or affogato
Vanilla bean panna cotta
Salted caramel bites
Dark chocolate truffles
The espresso martini’s rich bitterness and sweetness make it perfect with desserts or indulgent late-night snacks.
Tips & Notes
3
Fresh espresso is key — don’t substitute with instant or cold brew concentrate.
Shake hard — the foam is essential to the look and mouthfeel.
Want it stronger? Add an extra ¼ oz of vodka.
For a twist, try adding a dash of vanilla extract or using hazelnut liqueur instead of simple syrup.
If you don’t have an espresso machine, use strong Moka pot coffee.
Side Info
4
The Espresso Martini was invented in the 1980s by British bartender Dick Bradsell at a London bar. A model reportedly asked for something to “wake me up and f*** me up” — and this drink was born. It’s since become a staple in modern cocktail culture.
