Espresso martini recipe

Listen to me! Most people serve a lukewarm, muddy mess and call it a cocktail. Absolute rubbish! If you want a real drink, you need this definitive Espresso martini recipe. It is bold, sophisticated, and punchy. After a long night in the kitchen, I do not want a sugary disaster; I want perfection in a glass. While you might enjoy Easy Overnight Oats for breakfast, this is the wake-up call your evening deserves. Use fresh espresso, stop being lazy, and shake it like you actually mean it. Get it right, or do not bother making it at all! Let's get to work.

Ingredients for Espresso martini recipe

• 2 oz (60ml) Quality Vodka
• 1/2 oz (15ml) Coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
• 1 oz (30ml) Freshly brewed espresso (slightly cooled)
• 1/4 to 1/2 oz (7–15ml) Simple syrup (depending on sweetness preference)
• Ice cubes (enough to fill a shaker)
• 3 Coffee beans (for garnish)

Instructions to prepare Espresso martini recipe

1. Brew the Coffee: Prepare a fresh shot of espresso. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before mixing to prevent the ice from melting too rapidly and diluting the flavor.
2. Prepare the Glass: Place a martini or coupe glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill. A warm glass is an insult to the craft.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker filled with plenty of fresh ice.
4. Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid and shake hard for 15–30 seconds. A vigorous shake is essential to create that signature, velvety frothy foam on top of the drink.
5. Strain and Serve: Double-strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into your chilled glass to ensure no ice shards or coffee grounds remain.
6. Garnish: Float three coffee beans on top of the foam in a clover pattern, traditionally representing health, wealth, and happiness. Simply stunning.

Espresso martini recipe Details

Prep Time: PT5M

Cook Time: PT2M

Total Time: PT7M

Servings: 1

Expert Tips

Substitutions for Espresso martini recipe

If you want to elevate the flavor, try using a vanilla-infused vodka for a smoother finish. If you find yourself without simple syrup, a touch of maple syrup or agave can work, but do not overdo it. You want to taste the coffee, not a candy shop!

Errors to Avoid with Espresso martini recipe

The biggest crime is using instant coffee. It is a disgrace! Always use fresh espresso. Furthermore, if you do not shake the cocktail hard enough, you will end up with a flat, sad-looking liquid instead of that beautiful, thick crema on top. Wake up and use some muscle!

Alternative Cooking of Espresso martini recipe

If you do not have an espresso machine, you can use a very strong cold brew concentrate. It provides a similar punch without the heat, though you may lose a bit of that traditional crema. It is an acceptable compromise if you are in a pinch, but fresh is always king.

Frequently Asked Questions about Espresso martini recipe

Q1: Why must the espresso be cooled?

If you pour piping hot espresso over ice, it melts the ice instantly and dilutes your drink into a watery mess. Let it sit for a few minutes so it maintains its integrity when it hits the shaker.

Q2: How do I get that perfect thick foam on top?

It is all in the shake! You need to shake it like your life depends on it. The protein in the coffee combined with the air and ice creates that luxurious foam. If there is no foam, you failed.

Q3: Can I make this without a cocktail shaker?

In a desperate situation, a sturdy protein shaker or even a large mason jar with a tight lid will work. Just ensure it is sealed tight so you do not paint your kitchen walls with expensive vodka!