The Ultimate Espresso Martini Recipe to Shake Up Your Night
It’s Friday night, and you’re looking for that perfect drink to kick off your weekend. Especially after a busy work week!
Introducing the espresso martini: the cocktail taking the world by storm!
Searches for “espresso martini recipe” have significantly increased, particularly in 2022, when the drink gained immense popularity.
The espresso martini has become a top-ordered cocktail in U.S. bars, even displacing classics like the Manhattan! Given its irresistible blend of bold coffee flavor and smooth vodka kick, it’s no wonder.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a curious home mixologist, I’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to crafting the perfect espresso martini.
Get ready to shake things up and become the talk of your next gathering!
What is an Espresso Martini?

I’ve got to say that espresso martinis hold a special place in my heart. It’s like the perfect marriage of my two favorite things: coffee and booze. But it wasn’t always smooth sailing for me with this drink!
I remember the first time I tried to make an Espresso Martini at home. What a disaster! I thought, “Hey, I can brew espresso and pour vodka. How hard can it be?” It turns out it’s pretty darn hard when you don’t know what you’re doing.
I ended up with a watery, bitter mess that looked nothing like the fancy cocktails I’d seen in bars. But hey, we live and we learn, right?
Brief history of the espresso martini
Let’s start with a bit of history. Where did the espresso martini come from?
The Espresso Martini isn’t some centuries-old classic. It’s actually a pretty modern invention!
It was created in the 1980s by a bartender named Dick Bradsell in London. Apparently, a famous model (some say it was Kate Moss, but who knows) walked into his bar and asked for something that would “wake me up and f**k me up.”
Bradsell, being the clever mixologist he was, combined vodka with espresso and a coffee liqueur, and voila! The Espresso Martini was born.
Key ingredients that define the cocktail
After my initial failure at creating an espresso martini at home, I did some research and discovered that there’s more to this drink than just throwing coffee and vodka together. The key components that really define an Espresso Martini are:
- Vodka: This provides the boozy kick without adding much flavor.
- Freshly brewed espresso: Emphasis on fresh! Trust me, old, cold coffee just doesn’t cut it.
- Coffee liqueur: Typically Kahlúa, but there are other options out there.
- Simple syrup: To balance out the bitterness of the coffee.
Some folks also add a few coffee beans as a garnish, which I think looks super fancy. It took me a while to get the proportions right, but when I finally nailed it, it was well worth it!
Why it’s called a “martini” despite not containing gin or vermouth
Here’s something that confused me: why is it called a “martini” when it doesn’t contain gin or vermouth?
The term “martini” has become pretty loose in the cocktail world. These days, it often refers to any drink served in that iconic martini glass.
It’s kinda like how we call tissues “Kleenex” even when they’re not that brand. Language is weird like that, I guess!
The importance of quality espresso
One thing I’ve learned from making (and drinking) many Espresso Martinis is that the quality of your espresso really matters. I used to think I could get away with instant coffee. Big mistake!
The richness and crema you get from properly pulled espresso shots make all the difference. They give the drink that beautiful foamy top that looks so Instagram-worthy!
Getting the perfect layer of crema
Speaking of looks, getting that perfect layer of crema on top took me ages to master! The trick?
Shake the heck out of it with plenty of ice.
You want it to be ice cold and frothy when you pour it.
And don’t even get me started on how many times I’ve spilled it trying to pour it into that darn martini glass! Pro tip: pour it over a sink.
The more I think about it, the Espresso Martini is kind of like a grown-up version of those sugary coffee drinks we all loved as teenagers. This cocktail gives you that caffeine hit and sweetness but with a sophisticated edge. Plus, it’s got alcohol, which is always a bonus in my book (responsibly enjoyed, of course!).
Mastering the Espresso Martini has made me feel like a proper home bartender. It’s become my go-to when I want to impress friends at dinner parties. Something about that mix of bitter coffee, sweet liqueur, and smooth vodka hits the spot. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a drink that can perk you up and chill you out simultaneously?
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Espresso Martini

I’ve made more espresso martinis than I care to admit. Let’s dive into what makes this cocktail tick!
High-quality vodka options
First things first: vodka.
Any old bottle of vodka won’t do. You want a smooth, high-quality vodka that won’t overpower the coffee flavors!
I’m partial to Grey Goose or Belvedere, but Ketel One does the trick too. Just steer clear of the bottom shelf stuff unless you want your drink to taste like nail polish remover!
Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
Next up: the star of the show – espresso.
Forget about instant coffee granules dissolved in hot water. Your espresso will be a watery disaster that tastes about as appealing as gym socks smell. Trust me, you want freshly brewed espresso here!
If you don’t have an espresso machine (I didn’t for years), a really strong brew from a Moka pot or French press can work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s fresh and piping hot!
Coffee liqueur recommendations
Now, onto the coffee liqueur.
Kahlúa is the go-to for most folks and is a solid choice! But if you want to mix it up, try Tia Maria or Mr. Black.
Simple syrup or sugar alternatives
Simple syrup is your best bet when it comes to sweetening the deal.
It’s easy to make at home! Just combine equal parts sugar and water, heat until dissolved, and cool.
But here’s a little trick I picked up: use demerara sugar for a richer flavor. And if you’re watching your sugar intake (aren’t we all?), a sugar-free syrup or even a dash of liquid stevia can work wonders!
Optional ingredients for variations
The classic recipe doesn’t call for much else, but where’s the fun in that?
I like to add a couple of drops of vanilla extract for depth. Some folks swear by a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. And if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top can take it to the next level!
And here’s a fun variation I stumbled upon at a friend’s party: swap out the vodka for spiced rum. It adds a whole new dimension to the drink! Just don’t tell the purists I told you that. They might come after me with their coffee grinders!
Also, don’t skimp on the ice when shaking this cocktail! You want it ice cold and frothy.
Some bartenders add a tiny bit of creme de cacao for extra richness. I think it’s overkill, but hey, to each their own! I tried it once and felt like drinking a liquid candy bar. It’s not exactly what I’m going for when I want a sophisticated cocktail!
Lastly, don’t forget the presentation. A few coffee beans floating on top aren’t just for show—they add to the aroma when you take a sip! Plus, they look fancy. Just don’t try to eat them afterward!
Tools You’ll Need to Make an Espresso Martini

Making an Espresso Martini isn’t rocket science, but having the right gear can make all the difference. Trust me, I learned this the hard way after a few attempts at improvising!
Cocktail shaker
First up is the cocktail shaker. This bad boy is non-negotiable.
I remember trying to mix my first Espresso Martini in a mason jar, but I quickly realized the cocktail shaker isn’t just for show! It’s crucial for getting that frothy, creamy texture that makes an Espresso Martini so darn delicious.
Plus, cocktail shakers cool the drink down fast. Without it, you’re basically serving lukewarm, sad coffee with a vodka chaser. Not cute!
Martini glasses or coupe glasses
When it comes to espresso martinis, martini glasses are the traditional choice, and they do look pretty swanky. But between you and me? They’re a pain in the butt! I can’t tell you how often I’ve sloshed drink all over myself, trying to look cool with a martini glass!
These days, I’m all about the coupe glass. It’s easier to handle, less likely to spill, and still looks classy! Plus, it’s got that vintage vibe that makes you feel like you’re in some swanky 1920s speakeasy.
Fine-mesh strainer
A fine-mesh strainer makes all the difference! It catches all those little ice shards and coffee grounds that can make your drink gritty. The first time I used one, it was like drinking silk!
Jigger or measuring tool
When it came to measuring, I used to always eyeball it. But for alcoholic drinks like espresso martinis, this method doesn’t work! I kept making drinks that were either weak as water or strong enough to knock your socks off.
That’s when I finally invested in a jigger. What a game changer! Precision really does matter.
Coffee beans for garnish (optional)
And those coffee beans for garnish? They’re optional, sure, but they’re also kind of magical! Not only do they look fancy, but they also add this incredible aroma.
Coffee grinder
Speaking of grinders, if you really want to improve your coffee-making skills, invest in a decent one and grind your coffee beans fresh. The difference is night and day!
The first time I made an Espresso Martini with freshly ground beans, the flavor explosion in my mouth was so intense that my taste buds didn’t know what hit them!
Ice Cubes
Good, solid ice cubes are crucial when adding ice to your espresso martinis. Don’t bother using those tiny, half-moon-shaped ice cubes from your fridge’s ice maker. You’ll get watery, sad excuses for cocktails.
Bigger ice cubes melt slower, keeping your drink cold without diluting it. I even invested in one of those fancy ice cube trays that make big, square cubes! My Espresso Martinis have never been the same since.
Step-by-Step Espresso Martini Recipe
This recipe combines rich coffee flavors with smooth vodka, making it an ideal after-dinner drink or a fun cocktail for gatherings!
Here’s a concise and easy-to-follow recipe for making a delicious Espresso Martini.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (or cold brew concentrate)
- 0.75 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- 0.25 oz simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
- Ice
- 3 coffee beans for garnish
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger (for measuring)
- Strainer (optional for a smoother pour)
Instructions
- Brew the Espresso: Start by brewing a fresh shot of espresso and let it cool slightly. This prevents the ice from melting too quickly when mixed.
- Prepare the Shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the vodka, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the outside is frosty and foam forms.
- Strain into Glass: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. For an ultra-smooth drink, consider double straining using a fine mesh strainer.
- Garnish: Top with three coffee beans for garnish, which adds a touch of elegance and aroma.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Espresso Martini while it’s fresh and frothy!
Tips for the Perfect Espresso Martini
- Ensure your espresso is freshly brewed for the best flavor.
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the cocktail cold longer.
- You can add a splash of Baileys Irish Cream if you prefer a creamier texture!
Top 3 Tips for Achieving the Perfect Foam

That creamy, velvety foam layer on top is what separates a good Espresso Martini from a great one!
Here are my top three tips for achieving the perfect foam for espresso martinis:
- Use fresh espresso for the best quality foam. You want that espresso hot and fresh, straight from the machine. The oils in freshly brewed espresso give you that beautiful crema, which translates to luxurious foam in your cocktail!
- Aim for 12-15 seconds of vigorous shaking. Any less, and you’ll shortchange yourself on foam. Any more, and you risk over-diluting the drink.
- You want everything ice cold: a chilled glasses, cold liquor, and plenty of ice in your shaker. Warm ingredients = sad foam!
2 Alternative methods for creating foam
If you’re feeling adventurous (or if your arms are tired from all that shaking), some alternative methods exist for creating foam.
1. A Small Milk Frother
Invest in a small milk frother if you want to up your foam game. They’re not just for lattes! A quick buzz with one of those after you’ve poured your cocktail can give you an extra layer of frothy goodness.
2. A small whisk
I once saw a bartender use a small whisk to froth the drink in the glass. It looked pretty cool, but when I tried it at home, I had more cocktail on my shirt than in the glass! Stick to shaking unless you’ve got some serious whisking skills.
2 Tips for Better Foam
Here are some tricks I’ve learned along the way to help stabilize and make the foam thicker.
1. Add a pinch of salt
Oh, and here’s a little trick I picked up: add a tiny pinch of salt to your shaker. I know it sounds weird, but it helps to stabilize the foam. Just don’t go overboard unless you want your Espresso Martini to taste like a salted caramel latte gone wrong!
2. Add a splash of cream
I’ve also experimented with using different types of milk or cream to boost the foam. A splash of heavy cream can give you a really rich, luxurious foam. Don’t bother with plant-based milks like almond milk—they won’t have the same effect!
But be careful! Too much, and you’ve basically got a White Russian. Which, don’t get me wrong, is delicious, but not what we’re going for here.
Remember, achieving the perfect foam is an art form. It takes practice, patience, and a willingness to drink a few less-than-perfect cocktails along the way!
3 Espresso Martini Variations You MUST Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Espresso Martini, it’s time to venture into the wild world of variations. Trust me, this is where the real fun begins!
Here are my three favorite espresso martini variations.
1. Vanilla Espresso Martini
Let’s kick things off with the Vanilla Espresso Martini. A splash of vanilla adds this warm, comforting note that makes you want to curl up by the fire!
To make it, add a quarter ounce of vanilla syrup (or a dash of pure vanilla extract) to your regular Espresso Martini recipe.
Pro tip: make your own vanilla syrup by steeping a vanilla bean in your simple syrup.
2. Chocolate espresso martini
Next up: the Chocolate Espresso Martini! This one’s dangerous. It’s like dessert in a glass but with a kick!
Add half an ounce of chocolate liqueur to your standard recipe to whip up this bad boy. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, I love rimming the glass with cocoa powder!
3. Salted caramel espresso martini
Last but not least is the Salted Caramel Espresso Martini. This one’s for all you sweet-and-salty fans out there!
Add a splash of salted caramel syrup to your shaker to make it. And if you’re feeling extra, a drizzle of caramel sauce in the glass before you pour in the cocktail looks terrific!
Non-alcoholic espresso “martini” options
But what about our non-boozy friends? Fear not! The Non-Alcoholic Espresso “Martini” is a thing of beauty.
The trick is to use a good quality coffee syrup instead of coffee liqueur. Mix that with some fresh espresso and a splash of simple syrup, and shake it up with plenty of ice!
The result? A frothy, creamy, caffeine-packed mocktail that’ll make you forget you’re not drinking the real thing!
You can also add a dash of orange bitters to your non-alcoholic version. It gives it this subtle complexity that’ll make you feel like you’re not missing out!
Remember, the key to a good variation is balance. You want to enhance the original, not overpower it! It’s like adding sprinkles to ice cream—a little goes a long way!
So there you have it! Whether you’re into sweet, salty, chocolatey, or booze-free, there’s something for everyone. Just remember to drink responsibly.
Pairing Your Espresso Martini

Here are the best espresso martini pairings you have to try!
Desserts that complement Espresso Martinis
You might think that pairing a coffee-based cocktail with dessert is overkill, but trust me, it can be magical! Here are my favorite things to pair with my espresso martinis.
Tirimisu
I’ve found that the best approach is to choose desserts that complement the coffee flavor without being too sweet. A classic tiramisu is a no-brainer. Think of it as the dessert equivalent of your cocktail!
Dark chocolate
Another winner? Dark chocolate anything. I’m talking truffles, mousse, or even just a really good quality dark chocolate bar broken into pieces!
The bitterness of the dark chocolate plays off the sweetness of the cocktail beautifully. Plus, it makes you feel sophisticated!
Appetizers to serve alongside Espresso Martinis
Here are my favorite appetizers to serve alongside espresso martinis.
A cheese plate
If you want to get adventurous, pair your Espresso Martini with a cheese plate. It sounds weird, but a good aged Gouda or a creamy blue cheese can be amazing with the coffee notes in the cocktail!
Marcona almonds
Another go-to is something salty to balance out the sweetness of the cocktail.
Marcona almonds are fantastic! They’re like the fancy cousins of regular almonds, all buttery and salted.
Prosciutto wrapped… anything
Another great option is prosciutto-wrapped anything. Melon, figs, even just on its own!
The saltiness of the prosciutto is perfect with the richness of the cocktail. Plus, it makes you feel like you’re at some swanky Italian cafe, even if you’re just in your living room!
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Here’s a weird one that totally works: bacon-wrapped dates. The combination of sweet, salty, and smoky is like a flavor explosion in your mouth!
Best times to enjoy an espresso martini
So when is the best time to enjoy an Espresso Martini? The classic answer is “after dinner,” but I say rules are made to be broken!
Brunch? Why not! It’s like a mimosa’s edgy cousin.
Mid-afternoon pick-me-up? Go for it! Just maybe don’t tell your boss if you’re working from home.
That said, there are some times when an Espresso Martini is absolutely perfect:
- When you’re out with friends and someone suggests going to a club. You get a delicious cocktail AND the energy to dance all night!
- When you’re on a date, and you’re not sure if you want it to end yet. An Espresso Martini is the perfect way to extend the evening without looking like you’re trying too hard. Plus, you’ll be alert enough to keep the conversation flowing if the date’s going well!
Just one word of caution: maybe don’t have one right before bed unless you want to spend the night counting sheep.
Whether you’re pairing it with a fancy dessert, some salty snacks, or just good conversation, the Espresso Martini is a versatile little number! Remember to enjoy responsibly, and maybe keep some decaf on hand when you inevitably want “just one more” at midnight. Your Monday morning self will thank you!
Troubleshooting Common Espresso Martini Issues
We’ve all had those moments where our Espresso Martini dreams turn into caffeinated nightmares. Here’s how to fix watery consistencies, get the perfect amount of sweetness, deal with bitterness, and get the right temperature!
Fixing a watery consistency
There’s nothing worse than a diluted Espresso Martini. The fix? It’s all about that ice, baby!
You want to shake your cocktail hard and fast with lots of ice, then strain it immediately. Don’t let it sit around to get all melty and sad. And make sure you use cold espresso!
Adjusting sweetness levels
Getting the right amount of sweetness in espresso martinis is tricky because everyone’s sweet tooth is different. You don’t want to feel like you’re drinking liquid candy!
The key is to start with less sugar and add more if needed. It’s way easier to add sweetness than to take it away.
You’ll also want to make a batch of simple syrup and keep it on hand. That way, you can adjust the sweetness on the fly!
Dealing with bitter flavors
Bitter flavors can be a real mood killer in an Espresso Martini. The culprit? Over-extracted espresso.
If you find your cocktail too bitter, try using a different coffee or pulling your espresso shot for a shorter time.
And here’s a little trick I picked up: a tiny pinch of salt can help balance out bitterness.
Achieving the right temperature
Temperature is crucial for a good Espresso Martini. You want it ice cold!
The solution is to chill everything: your glasses, liquor, even your shaker if you want to go the extra mile. I’ve been known to pop my martini glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before serving. And if your drink doesn’t come out cold enough, don’t be afraid to shake it again with fresh ice!
Remember that even the pros sometimes make mistakes when it comes to espresso martini making. The key is to learn from your mistakes and keep shaking!
Time To Shake Up Some Espresso Martinis!
There you have it! Your ticket to espresso martini mastery. With this recipe in your repertoire, you’re all set to dazzle your friends and elevate your home bartending game.
The key to a great espresso martini lies in the quality of your ingredients and the love you pour into making it. So shake up a storm and savor the perfect balance of caffeine and cocktail! You might just become the go-to mixologist in your circle.
Here are some of my other recipes you are free to enjoy:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ingredients for an espresso martini?
The ingredients for an Espresso Martini include:
- 2 ounces of vodka
- 1 ounce of coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
- 1 ounce of freshly brewed espresso
- Optional:
- ½ ounces of simple syrup for added sweetness.
- For garnish, typically add 3 coffee beans on top.
What liquor is best for an espresso martini?
The best liquor for an Espresso Martini is vodka, which provides a neutral base that complements the bitter espresso without overpowering it. Additionally, coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa, adds sweetness and enhances the coffee flavor, making it essential for this cocktail’s rich profile.
Is an espresso martini better with Kahlua or Baileys?
Choosing between Kahlua and Baileys for an Espresso Martini largely depends on personal preference:
- Kahlua offers a rich coffee flavor that complements the espresso, making it ideal for those who want a traditional taste.
- Baileys adds a creamy texture that softens the drink, appealing to those who prefer a smoother cocktail experience.
What are the standards in an espresso martini?
The standards for an Espresso Martini typically include using freshly brewed espresso, vodka, and a coffee liqueur like Kahlúa. The drink is known for its rich, creamy texture and is often garnished with three coffee beans for a classic presentation.