Espresso martinis are an iconic cocktail, perfect for a pick-me-up or a sophisticated beverage. Combining the strong flavors of espresso, coffee liqueur and vodka, they offer the perfect blend of caffeine, sweetness and bite.
Servings
1 Serving
PREP TIME
3 mins
COOK TIME
2 mins
TOTAL TIME
5 mins
Difficulty
Wine pairing
You will need a cocktail shaker to make espresso martinis.
You’ll also need an espresso machine or a coffee pod machine – unfortunately instant coffee won’t yield great results.
I recommend making no more than 2 at a time, as you really need the 1 cup of ice per beverage (and room in the cocktail shaker) to get the optimal amount of coffee foam on top.
A popular spin on espresso martinis is adding different flavours. You can achieve this by adding flavoured syrups (vanilla, caramel, hazelnut) or by adding flavoured liqueurs.
One popular variation is adding Frangelico (hazelnut-flavoured liqueur). For a mild vanilla twang, sub vodka for vanilla vodka. I love adding liqueurs I find at artisan producers, such as butterscotch and white chocolate. Anything goes, really!
To make a flavoured espresso martini, follow either of these rules:
OR
1. Using an espresso machine or a pod coffee machine, brew enough espresso for the number of martinis you want to make. Set aside to cool, or pop in the fridge for as long as you can wait!
Tip: You can prepare the espresso a few hours in advance and store in the fridge until required.
1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker.
Tip: Avoid making more than 2 espresso martinis at once. You really need the 1 cup of ice per beverage (and room in the cocktail shaker) to get the optimal amount of coffee foam on top.
2. Shake vigorously!
Tip: I mean – really vigorously (without straining a muscle). The more you shake, the more foam you create.
3. Strain into martini glasses. Serve topped with either a few whole coffee beans for decoration, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Espresso martinis are so versatile – serve as a morning beverage to kick start a day of partying, or serve as an afternoon pick-me-up. They even double as a dessert cocktail, perfect for finishing off your evening meal.
You could also pair this alongside desserts that have a milder flavour, such as white chocolate crème brulee or a dessert that’s topped with either chocolate Kahlua sauce or white chocolate Kahlua sauce – decadence!
