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Espresso Martini – Vodka Recipe

Espresso Martini – Vodka Recipe

Master how to make the best homemade Espresso Martini with premium vodka and freshly brewed espresso. This easy cocktail recipe creates a perfect balance of coffee richness and smooth vodka, topped with a silky crema layer that makes this craft cocktail a showstopping after-dinner treat.
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>

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

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>

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>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Espresso Martini – Vodka Recipe?

An Espresso Martini requires premium vodka, coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa or Mr. Black), freshly brewed espresso, and optional simple syrup. It's traditionally garnished with three coffee beans representing health, wealth, and happiness.

How to make Espresso Martini – Vodka Recipe at home?

Learn how to make Espresso Martini – Vodka Recipe by brewing fresh espresso, combining it with premium vodka and coffee liqueur in a shaker filled with ice, shaking vigorously for 15-20 seconds to create the signature crema, and double-straining into a chilled coupe glass. The key is proper temperature and aggressive shaking for that perfect foamy top.

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.

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My new favorite nightcap.", "name": "Better Than Bars", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Amara Okafor", "datePublished": "2024-05-03", "reviewBody": "The tip about letting the espresso cool slightly but not completely was genius! Created the perfect crema layer I could never achieve before. Deliciously balanced and not too sweet.", "name": "Crema Secret Revealed", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Liam Johnston", "datePublished": "2024-05-05", "reviewBody": "As a coffee enthusiast, I'm picky about my Espresso Martinis. This recipe nails it with the perfect ratio of ingredients. The vigorous shaking technique is key - don't skimp on that step!", "name": "Coffee Lover Approved", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Mei Lin Wong", "datePublished": "2024-05-08", "reviewBody": "Such an elegant cocktail! The three coffee beans garnish makes for a beautiful presentation. My friends thought I'd become a professional bartender overnight. Perfectly balanced sweetness.", "name": "Showstopper Presentation", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ]}

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