The Espresso Martini is more than just a cocktail—it’s an experience of rich, dark flavors balanced with the perfect buzz of caffeine and vodka. Originating in the 1980s as the brainchild of Dick Bradsell, this drink quickly became a staple in cocktail culture.
Today, variations on the classic recipe invite even more intrigue to the mix, offering flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or chocolate that enhance the espresso’s natural bitterness. These innovative takes on the Espresso Martini keep the original spirit alive while catering to a wide range of tastes and moods
Here, we’ll go over 12 great Espresso Martini that you should try.
Classic Espresso Martini
The Classic Espresso Martini is a go-to for coffee lovers. The key ingredients are simple yet combine for a perfect mix.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz fresh espresso (chilled)
- 0.25 oz simple syrup
Instructions:
- Brew your espresso and let it chill in the refrigerator.
- Combine vodka, coffee liqueur, chilled espresso, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously to create a frothy texture.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with 3 coffee beans for a classic touch.
The shaking creates a crema, a layer of foam on top. This is essential for the drink’s signature look and texture. The three coffee beans symbolize health, wealth, and happiness. Keep your ingredients fresh for the best flavor.
This cocktail originated in London. It has become one of the most popular coffee cocktails worldwide. It offers a delightful mix of caffeine and alcohol, perfect for any occasion.
Vanilla Espresso Martini
A Vanilla Espresso Martini brings a sweet and aromatic twist to the classic Espresso Martini. It combines the kick of espresso with the richness of vanilla.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vanilla-flavored vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Ice
- Vanilla bean or coffee beans (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brew the espresso. Let it cool.
- Add vanilla-flavored vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill shaker with ice.
- Shake the mixture vigorously until well-chilled and frothy.
- Strain the mix into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a vanilla bean or coffee beans.
This cocktail offers a perfect balance of sweetness and strength, making it an elegant choice for any occasion.
Caramel Espresso Martini
The Caramel Espresso Martini combines the richness of coffee with the sweet and savory notes of caramel. It’s a perfect choice if you want to enjoy a sophisticated yet decadent cocktail.
Ingredients:
- 1 shot espresso (freshly brewed and cooled)
- 2 shots vanilla vodka or salted caramel vodka
- 1 shot Kahlua (coffee liqueur)
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
- Ice
- Optional: coffee beans or cinnamon for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare your glass: Chill a martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes. Drizzle caramel sauce around the inside of the glass.
- Mix the ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the espresso, vodka, Kahlua, and ice.
- Shake: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. The goal is to mix the ingredients and chill the drink well.
- Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass. Garnish with coffee beans or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Mocha Espresso Martini
A Mocha Espresso Martini combines the boldness of espresso with the richness of chocolate. This cocktail is perfect for coffee and chocolate lovers. It’s great for gatherings or as an after-dinner treat.
Ingredients
- 1 oz espresso
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Ice
- Chocolate shavings (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the espresso: Brew a fresh shot of espresso. Let it cool slightly.
- Mix ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine espresso, vodka, chocolate liqueur, simple syrup, and ice.
- Shake well: Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle chocolate shavings on top for decoration.
This drink brings an energizing kick while blending sweet and bitter flavors seamlessly.
Hazelnut Espresso Martini
A Hazelnut Espresso Martini offers an indulgent twist on the classic espresso martini. This drink pairs the deep, rich flavors of espresso with the sweet and nutty notes of hazelnut liqueur.
Ingredients
- 1 shot (1 oz) espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1 oz hazelnut liqueur
- 1 oz vodka
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare the Espresso: Brew 1 shot of espresso. Allow it to cool.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the cooled espresso, hazelnut liqueur, vodka, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
- Shake: Add ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to chill the mixture and create a frothy top.
- Strain and Serve: Pour the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with coffee beans for an elegant finish.
This drink balances sweetness and the robust flavor of coffee, creating a sublime cocktail experience.
Coconut Espresso Martini
The Coconut Espresso Martini is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail. It combines the bold flavors of espresso with the creamy sweetness of coconut.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
- 1 oz coconut rum
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- Ice
- Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Drink:
- Pour the freshly brewed espresso into a shaker.
- Add the coconut rum, vodka, and coffee liqueur.
Shake It:
- Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
Serve:
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes.
The combination of coffee and coconut creates a harmonious balance of taste. Each sip offers a perfect blend of rich, roasted coffee and sweet, creamy coconut. The toasted coconut flakes add a delightful crunch and an appealing presentation.
Chocolate Espresso Martini
The Chocolate Espresso Martini blends the rich flavors of chocolate and coffee. It’s a delightful twist on the classic espresso martini.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur
- 1 ounce chocolate liqueur
- 1 ounce chilled espresso
- Chocolate syrup (for garnishing)
- Chocolate shavings (for garnishing)
Instructions
Prepare your garnishes:
- Pour a little chocolate syrup onto a flat plate.
- Dip the rim of your martini glass in the syrup.
- Add chocolate shavings if desired.
Combine the ingredients and shake vigorously for around 30 seconds:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur
- 1 ounce chocolate liqueur
- 1 ounce chilled espresso
Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
Garnish with chocolate shavings.
Orange Espresso Martini
For a citrus twist on the classic, try an Orange Espresso Martini. This cocktail combines the bold flavors of espresso with a refreshing hint of orange.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
- 0.5 oz triple sec
- 0.25 oz simple syrup
- Orange zest for garnish
Instructions:
- Brew your espresso and let it chill.
- Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, triple sec, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a twist of orange zest.
Spiced Espresso Martini
The Spiced Espresso Martini adds warmth to the classic cocktail. To make a Spiced Espresso Martini, follow these steps:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
- 0.5 oz coffee liqueur
- 0.25 oz simple syrup
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Ice
Instructions:
- Brew a fresh shot of espresso and let it cool slightly.
- In a shaker, combine vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup.
- Add the pinches of cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- For an extra touch, garnish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Mint Espresso Martini
A Mint Espresso Martini offers a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail. Its cool, minty flavor pairs perfectly with the rich essence of espresso. This combination makes it ideal for any occasion, especially during the holiday season or warm summer nights.
To make a Mint Espresso Martini, you will need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha
- 1 shot of freshly brewed espresso
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool slightly.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, Kahlúa Peppermint Mocha, simple syrup, and the brewed espresso into the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a peppermint stick or mint leaves for an extra touch.
Irish Espresso Martini
The Irish Espresso Martini is a delightful twist on the classic espresso martini. This cocktail incorporates the warmth and richness of Irish whiskey and Irish cream. You will love the combination of strong coffee flavors with smooth sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Irish whiskey
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz Irish cream liqueur
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
- Ice
- Coffee beans for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the Irish whiskey, coffee liqueur, Irish cream liqueur, and fresh espresso.
- Shake vigorously until well mixed.
- Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
- Garnish with coffee beans.
Baileys Espresso Martini
A Baileys Espresso Martini is a delightful twist on the classic espresso martini. The creamy sweetness of Baileys adds depth to the rich coffee flavors. This drink is perfect for an evening cocktail or a special dessert treat.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (cooled)
- Ice cubes
- Coffee beans (for garnish)
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Pour in Baileys, vodka, and espresso.
- Shake firmly for 15-30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a martini glass.
- Garnish with three coffee beans.
The Baileys’ creaminess combined with the robust espresso creates a balanced and smooth drink. The garnish of three coffee beans symbolizes health, wealth, and happiness.
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