Home
Recipes
Cocktails
Vodka-Based Cocktails
Espresso Martini – Vodka Recipe

Espresso Martini – Vodka Recipe

By What’s Baking

A velvety fusion of vodka and fresh espresso crowned with a silky coffee crema, balancing bold coffee intensity with subtle sweetness for an elegant pick-me-up.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
A sophisticated overhead shot of an Espresso Martini in a sleek, chilled coupe glass. The cocktail displays perfect separation between the rich, dark coffee-colored liquid and the luxurious crema foam floating on top. Dramatic low lighting creates reflections on the glossy surface while highlighting the three coffee beans delicately placed atop the foam in a traditional garnish pattern. Tiny droplets of condensation on the glass suggest the perfectly chilled temperature, while the contrast between the deep brown cocktail and pristine white foam showcases the precise layering achieved through proper shaking technique.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">50ml vodka (premium quality)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">25ml coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or Mr. Black)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">25ml freshly brewed espresso, cooled</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">5ml simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)</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">Hawthorne strainer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Fine mesh strainer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger or measuring tool</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Martini or coupe glass</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Espresso machine or strong coffee maker</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 a shot of espresso and allow it to cool slightly (about 1-2 minutes). Using hot espresso can affect the dilution and temperature of your cocktail, while completely cold espresso won't create the beautiful crema layer.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Place your martini or coupe glass in the freezer to chill for at least 5 minutes. A properly chilled glass is essential for maintaining the drink's temperature and presentation.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes (ideally larger ones that won't dilute too quickly). Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, and simple syrup if using.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. This is crucial - the aggressive shaking not only chills and dilutes the cocktail but also creates the signature foamy crema that defines a proper Espresso Martini. You'll know you've shaken enough when the shaker becomes frosty on the outside.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Remove your chilled glass from the freezer. Double-strain the cocktail through both a Hawthorne strainer and fine mesh strainer into the glass. This double-straining technique ensures no ice chips or coffee grounds make it into the final drink, giving it a silky smooth texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Pause briefly to allow the crema to form on top - this light brown foam should rise to create a distinct layer. If it doesn't form properly, your espresso may have been too cold or you didn't shake vigorously enough.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Garnish with exactly three coffee beans placed gently on top of the foam (traditionally representing health, wealth, and happiness). Serve immediately while the crema is still fresh and the drink perfectly chilled.</li></ol>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 cocktail
🔥 Calories: 215 calories
🥑 Fat: 0.2 g
🧈 Saturated Fat: 0 g
🍞 Carbohydrates: 11 g
🍭 Sugar: 10 g
🍗 Protein: 0.5 g
🫀 Cholesterol: 0 mg
🧂 Sodium: 5 mg

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Why isn't my Espresso Martini creating the signature foam layer?

The signature crema requires properly fresh espresso (not too hot or cold), vigorous shaking (15-20 seconds minimum), and immediate pouring. Using old coffee, insufficient shaking, or letting the mixture sit too long before pouring will result in a flat cocktail without the desirable foam layer.

What's the best vodka to use for a perfect coffee cocktail?

For the best results, choose a premium, smooth vodka with minimal congeners. Brands like Grey Goose, Ketel One or Belvedere work brilliantly as their clean profiles allow the coffee flavours to shine without competing harsh notes. Avoid flavoured vodkas that might clash with the espresso.

Can I prepare an Espresso Martini without an espresso machine?

Yes! While freshly pulled espresso is ideal, you can substitute with very strong cold brew concentrate, instant espresso dissolved in hot water (then cooled), or a moka pot brew. The key is ensuring your coffee component is concentrated enough to stand up to the alcohol and create the signature crema.

Want to try something else in ...

More recipes you might like

Keep exploring with more recipes from What's Baking.

View all
A highball glass with a crystalline salt rim captures the Salty Dog in perfect midday light. The cocktail displays a gradient of pale pink to coral hues, with large, clear ice cubes refracting sunlight through the drink. Condensation beads dramatically down the glass, suggesting refreshing coldness. A plump pink grapefruit wedge perches on the rim, while tiny essential oil bubbles from freshly-squeezed juice dance just below the surface. The drink is photographed from a 45-degree angle against a weathered wooden bar top, with soft natural lighting highlighting the textural contrast between the coarse salt rim and the smooth, glistening liquid.
Cocktails
Vodka-Based Cocktails

Salty Dog Recipe

A refreshing, tangy blend of crisp grapefruit juice and smooth vodka or gin, balanced with a savory salt rim that elevates each bright, citrusy sip.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
3 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A frosted rocks glass filled with crushed ice showcases the striking magenta hue of the Prickly Pear Vodka Smash. Natural window light highlights the translucent layers where the vibrant prickly pear purée blends into the clear vodka. Close-up details reveal fresh mint leaves gently bruised and tucked among the ice, while a lime wheel perches on the rim, its bright green contrasting beautifully with the pink-purple cocktail. Tiny water droplets bead on the exterior of the glass, suggesting refreshing coolness. The cocktail sits on a rustic wooden bar top with a small bowl of prickly pear chunks nearby, emphasizing its southwestern origins and fresh ingredients.
Cocktails
Vodka-Based Cocktails

Prickly Pear Vodka Smash Recipe

A vibrant Southwest-inspired cocktail featuring sweet prickly pear, crisp vodka, and fresh lime juice, perfectly balanced with hints of mint and agave nectar.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
Captured in dramatic low light, this striking martini glows with a vibrant raspberry-pink hue in a crystal-clear coupe glass with a slender stem. A fine rim of pink sugar catches the light while a single fresh raspberry and a delicate rose petal float atop the perfectly smooth surface. Condensation forms on the glass's exterior, highlighting the impeccable chill of the cocktail. The lighting creates subtle shadows that emphasize the drink's silky texture, while in the soft-focus background, a small crystal pitcher holds additional cocktail, suggesting an evening of sophisticated indulgence.
Cocktails
Vodka-Based Cocktails

Raspberry Rose Martini Recipe

A silky fusion of botanical gin, fresh raspberry puree and delicate rose water creates an elegantly pink, floral-forward martini with the perfect balance of sweet and tart notes.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A tall collins glass stands elegantly against a white marble bar top, capturing afternoon sunlight that illuminates the crystal-clear layers of the cocktail. Thinly sliced cucumber ribbons spiral inside the glass, intertwining with fresh basil leaves suspended throughout the drink. Perfectly clear ice cubes reflect light through the effervescent liquid, creating tiny champagne-like bubbles that rise continuously to the surface. The cocktail transitions from pale green at the bottom to a clearer tone at the top where soda water has been added. A garnish of cucumber wheel and basil sprig rests on the rim, casting gentle shadows across the condensation-beaded exterior of the glass.
Cocktails
Vodka-Based Cocktails

Cucumber Basil Vodka Collins Recipe

Crisp cucumber, aromatic basil, and clean vodka harmonize in this refreshing collins that balances herbaceous notes with bright citrus and effervescent soda.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
An overhead shot of a tall, slender highball glass filled with a luminous green cocktail, ice cubes glistening under soft bar lighting. Condensation beads elegantly down the crystal-clear glass, capturing the vibrant emerald liquid inside. A thin slice of lime and lemon perch on the rim, their bright colors contrasting with the electric green of the Tokyo Ice Tea. Small bubbles rise through the cocktail from the soda splash, creating dynamic movement against the translucent layers of spirits. The glass sits on a polished dark wood bar, with subtle reflections of colored bottles in the background creating depth and atmosphere.
Cocktails
Vodka-Based Cocktails

Tokyo Ice Tea Recipe

A vibrant, high-octane twist on the Long Island Ice Tea with a striking emerald hue from Midori that delivers a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and citrus notes.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A gleaming copper Moscow Mule mug filled with crushed ice, capturing condensation droplets running down its sides under warm bar lighting. The crystal-clear vodka nestles beneath a layer of effervescent ginger beer with tiny bubbles rising continuously. A wedge of vibrant lime perches on the rim while a sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of green against the copper backdrop. The mug sits on a rustic wooden bar top with scattered lime wedges and crystals of ice nearby, suggesting freshness and careful preparation.
Cocktails
Vodka-Based Cocktails

Moscow Mule Recipe

A refreshing burst of spicy ginger beer mingling with crisp vodka and tangy lime, creating a perfectly balanced, copper mug-chilled sensation that dances on your palate.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
3 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe