Home
Recipes
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic
Black Forest Espresso Martini Recipe

Black Forest Espresso Martini Recipe

By What’s Baking

A decadent fusion of rich espresso, velvety chocolate, and luscious cherry flavors that transforms the classic espresso martini into a boozy Black Forest gateau in a glass.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
An elegant martini glass filled with a dark, glossy espresso cocktail, topped with a perfect layer of silky crema. The deep brown-black liquid catches the light with subtle crimson undertones. A single maraschino cherry speared with a thin chocolate stick rests on the rim, while cocoa powder dusts one side of the glass surface. Shot in moody, atmospheric bar lighting that creates dramatic shadows, emphasizing the luxurious texture of the cocktail. Droplets of condensation bead on the chilled glass, suggesting the perfect temperature. A bottle of cherry liqueur and chocolate bitters sit blurred in the background, hinting at the complex flavors within.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">50ml vodka</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">25ml freshly brewed espresso (cooled)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml cherry liqueur (such as kirsch or cherry brandy)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">10ml chocolate liqueur (or crème de cacao)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">5ml simple syrup</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">2 dashes chocolate bitters</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Maraschino cherry for garnish</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Chocolate stick or shaved chocolate for garnish</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Cocoa powder for dusting</li> </ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Cocktail shaker</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Fine-mesh strainer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Martini glass</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Coffee machine/espresso maker</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Small sieve (for cocoa dusting)</li> </ul>
BAKE SMARTER

Kitchen Converter

Quickly switch between common baking units without leaving the recipe.

Convert
⇄
Result—

Volume uses US cups, tablespoons, and teaspoons. Converting weight to volume depends on the ingredient.

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Brew your espresso and allow it to cool to room temperature - using hot coffee will melt the ice too quickly and result in a watery cocktail. For the best crema on top, use freshly brewed espresso that's no more than 30 minutes old. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Chill your martini glass thoroughly by filling it with ice water or placing it in the freezer for at least 5 minutes. A properly chilled glass maintains the cocktail's temperature and enhances the drinking experience. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes (not crushed ice) - large cubes will dilute the cocktail more slowly during shaking, preserving the robust flavors. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Measure and add all liquid ingredients to your shaker: vodka, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, cherry liqueur, chocolate liqueur, simple syrup, and chocolate bitters. Precision is key here to achieve the perfect balance between the coffee bitterness and the sweet cherry-chocolate notes. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Shake vigorously for at least 20 seconds - this is longer than most cocktails require, but essential for creating the signature frothy crema that should sit atop your finished drink. You're not just chilling and diluting, but also aerating the espresso to create that luxurious texture. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Empty your chilled glass and fine-strain the cocktail into it. The fine-mesh strainer removes any small ice chips and coffee grounds, ensuring a silky-smooth texture. Pour with confidence from about 6-8cm height to help develop that beautiful crema layer. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Dust one side of the cocktail surface with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder by passing it through a small sieve. This adds a delicate bitterness that complements the sweet elements and enhances the chocolate aroma. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Garnish with a maraschino cherry speared on a chocolate stick or place on the rim. If using shaved chocolate instead, sprinkle it lightly over the surface of the drink. The garnish should be both visually striking and add aromatic elements that enhance the drinking experience. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4> Serve immediately while the crema is still intact and the cocktail is properly chilled. The Black Forest Espresso Martini is best enjoyed fresh, as the layered flavors and textures begin to meld and change as it warms. </li> </ol>

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

What's the key to achieving the perfect crema on top of an espresso martini?

The perfect crema comes from vigorously shaking for at least 20 seconds with fresh espresso (no more than 30 minutes old). This lengthy shake aerates the coffee, creating that luxurious foamy layer. Pour from a height of 6-8cm to enhance the development of this signature creamy top.

Can I substitute the cherry liqueur in this cocktail with anything else?

Yes, you can substitute cherry liqueur with black cherry syrup, grenadine with a splash of almond extract, or cherry-infused vodka. Each alternative will change the flavour profile slightly, but will maintain the Black Forest character when paired with the chocolate and coffee elements.

Why is it important to fine-strain this coffee cocktail recipe?

Fine-straining removes coffee grounds and small ice chips, ensuring a silky-smooth texture. This step is crucial for premium mouthfeel and presentation, preventing unwanted gritty particles from disrupting the luxurious drinking experience and preserving the cocktail's refined character.

Want to try something else in ...

More recipes you might like

Keep exploring with more recipes from What's Baking.

View all
An elegant lowball glass featuring a deep amber-brown cocktail with a distinctive creamy nitrogen-infused head, captured from a 45-degree angle that highlights its silky texture. Crystal-clear ice cubes catch the warm, amber bar lighting, creating golden reflections through the drink. A twisted orange peel garnish rests on the glass rim, with tiny essential oil droplets visible on the drink's surface. Moody lighting creates dramatic shadows against a dark wooden bar top, while copper bar tools sit slightly blurred in the background, suggesting the craft that went into creating this nitro-infused twist on a classic.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Nitro Coffee Old Fashioned Recipe

A sophisticated fusion of cold brew intensity and whiskey warmth, heightened with nitrogen's velvety texture and punctuated with orange notes for a contemporary classic experience.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal rocks glass showcases dramatic layers where dark espresso cascades over a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, creating mesmerizing coffee-colored swirls. The glass sits on a rustic wooden board against a moody background with warm, low lighting that emphasizes the drink's rich amber-brown tones. Condensation forms on the exterior while a delicate orange twist and coffee bean garnish rest artistically on top. A bottle of artisanal amaro stands blurred in the background, suggesting the cocktail's bittersweet foundation.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Amaro Affogato Cocktail Recipe

A decadent fusion of bitter amaro, rich espresso, and velvety ice cream creates a sophisticated dessert cocktail that balances warmth and chill with exquisite complexity.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal-clear rocks glass with a single large ice cube capturing light reflections, filled with an amber-bronze cocktail that hints at both coffee richness and botanical complexity. Golden hour lighting accentuates the warm tones against a dark walnut bar top, while wisps of expressed orange oils hover above the surface. A twisted orange peel garnish rests elegantly on the rim, with coffee beans scattered artfully nearby to hint at the flavor profile. The drink's silky texture is evident in the way it clings slightly to the glass, suggesting both spirit strength and coffee integration.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Coffee Negroni Blanco Recipe

A sophisticated fusion of bright white coffee notes with the herbal complexity of a white negroni, creating an invigorating yet smooth aperitivo experience.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A close-up shot of a Café Amaretto in a crystal-clear rocks glass, showcasing distinct layers of dark coffee liqueur and cream crowned with a light dusting of cocoa powder. The lighting is warm and intimate, resembling the amber glow of a sophisticated cocktail lounge. Ice cubes glisten as they slowly melt, with condensation forming on the exterior of the glass. A whole coffee bean garnish rests on top of the cream, while a cinnamon stick leans against the rim, providing texture contrast. The cocktail sits atop a polished wooden bar surface with soft focus bar bottles in the background, creating depth and context.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Café Amaretto Recipe

A seductive blend of rich coffee liqueur, smooth amaretto, and fresh cream creates a dessert-worthy cocktail that's both indulgent and remarkably balanced.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A short, heavy-bottomed rocks glass sits against a dark wooden bar top illuminated by warm, amber lighting. The Sombrero cocktail displays perfect layering - a deep, chocolate-brown base of Kahlúa transitioning into a cloud-like layer of pristine white cream that floats delicately on top. A fine dusting of freshly grated coffee beans creates a delicate pattern across the cream's surface, with a single coffee bean garnish resting at the center. The contrast between the dark liqueur and bright white cream is accentuated by droplets of condensation gathering on the glass, suggesting the perfect serving temperature.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Sombrero - Kahlúa (Coffee Liqueur) and Cream Recipe

A luscious, velvety cascade of rich coffee liqueur gently blanketed with fresh cream, offering comforting warmth and indulgent sweetness in each sip.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
2 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A Coffee Negroni captured in dramatic low-key lighting with sharp highlights accentuating the drink's deep amber-ruby color transitioning to dark coffee tones. The cocktail rests in a crystal rocks glass with a large crystal-clear ice cube, where thin swirls of coffee create mesmerizing patterns within the drink. A perfectly twisted orange peel garnish rests on the rim, with essential oils glistening on the surface. Soft backlighting illuminates the translucent edges of the drink, showcasing its silky texture and complex layering of Campari, gin, vermouth, and cold brew. Condensation beads on the outside of the glass catch ambient light, suggesting the perfect serving temperature.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Coffee Negroni Recipe

A bold fusion of classic bitter-sweet Negroni elements with rich cold brew coffee undertones, creating a sophisticated caffeine-infused aperitivo experience.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe