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Espresso Martini Recipe

Espresso Martini Recipe

By What’s Baking

A silky fusion of bold espresso, smooth vodka, and rich coffee liqueur that creates a sophisticated, caffeinated cocktail with the perfect balance of sweetness and depth.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
A chilled martini glass captured from a slight angle, showcasing the Espresso Martini's signature rich dark brown color topped with a perfect crema of caramel-colored foam. The surface glimmers under soft, moody bar lighting that highlights the velvety texture and tiny bubbles in the foam layer. Crystalline droplets of condensation cling to the outside of the glass, suggesting its ice-cold temperature. Three coffee beans rest symmetrically on the foam's surface, their rich brown tones contrasting beautifully against the creamy top. In the background, slightly blurred, sit bottles of premium vodka and Kahlúa alongside an espresso machine, hinting at the cocktail's core ingredients.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">50ml vodka</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">25ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">25ml freshly brewed espresso, cooled</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">10ml simple syrup (optional, depending on desired sweetness)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">3 coffee beans for garnish</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 for measuring</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Martini glass or coupe</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Espresso machine or strong coffee maker</li></ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Brew a shot of espresso and allow it to cool slightly (30-60 seconds). Using hot espresso would melt too much ice and dilute your cocktail, while also potentially compromising the signature foam.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Chill your martini glass by filling it with ice and water, or place it in the freezer for a few minutes while preparing the cocktail.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Fill your cocktail shaker with plenty of ice. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, and simple syrup (if using).</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Seal your shaker tightly and shake vigorously for at least 15-20 seconds. This extended shake is crucial – it not only chills the mixture but creates the signature creamy foam that defines a proper Espresso Martini. You'll know you've shaken enough when the shaker becomes frosty cold.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Empty the ice from your chilled martini glass and strain the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer into the glass. Pour with confidence from a slight height to maintain the foam.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Wait a moment for the foam to settle and form a perfect crema layer on top – this is the hallmark of a well-executed Espresso Martini.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Garnish with exactly three coffee beans placed in the center of the foam (traditionally representing health, wealth, and happiness). Serve immediately while the foam is still pristine and the drink perfectly chilled.</li></ol>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 cocktail
🔥 Calories: 215 calories
🥑 Fat: 0 g
🧈 Saturated Fat: 0 g
🍞 Carbohydrates: 11 g
🍭 Sugar: 10 g
🍗 Protein: 0 g
🫀 Cholesterol: 0 mg
🧂 Sodium: 5 mg

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Why should you shake a coffee cocktail so vigorously?

The vigorous shake (15-20 seconds minimum) is essential for creating the signature creamy foam or 'crema' that defines a proper coffee cocktail. This extended shaking emulsifies the natural oils in the espresso, creating tiny air bubbles that form the silky, luxurious foam layer.

What's the best vodka for a coffee-based martini?

Choose a premium, smooth vodka with minimal flavour profiles that won't compete with the coffee notes. Brands like Grey Goose, Ketel One, or Belvedere work exceptionally well. Avoid flavoured vodkas unless specifically aiming for additional flavour dimensions.

Can I make this cocktail without an espresso machine?

Yes, you can substitute fresh espresso with cold brew concentrate or very strong coffee. Alternatively, use instant espresso powder dissolved in hot water and cooled. The key is ensuring a concentrated coffee flavour, though true espresso creates the best foam and flavour.

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