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Espresso Martini Recipe

Easy Espresso Martini

This espresso martini recipe combines rich coffee flavors with smooth vodka to create the perfect caffeinated cocktail. Coffee lovers everywhere have embraced this luxurious drink that delivers both sophistication and an energizing kick.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Espresso Cooling Time 3 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American, International
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cocktail Ingredients
  • 2 ounces vodka premium brand like Tito's preferred
  • 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur such as Kahlua
  • 1 ounce freshly brewed espresso cooled slightly, or cold brew concentrate
  • 1/2 ounce simple syrup adjust to taste
  • 1 cup ice for shaking
Garnish
  • 3-4 whole coffee beans for garnish

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Cocktail Strainer
  • Espresso Machine or Coffee Maker
  • Martini Glass or Coupe Glass
  • Jigger or Measuring Cup

Method
 

  1. Prepare your glass: Chill your martini glass or coupe glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving.
  2. Cool the espresso: Brew fresh espresso and let it cool for 2-3 minutes in the refrigerator. Don't use hot espresso as it will melt the ice and dilute the drink.
  3. Combine ingredients: Add vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
  4. Add ice and shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. The vigorous shaking is crucial for creating the signature foam layer.
  5. Strain and serve: Pour the mixture through a cocktail strainer into your chilled glass.
  6. Garnish: Float 3-4 coffee beans on top of the foam for an elegant finish. Serve immediately.

Notes

Temperature Tips: Never use hot espresso directly from the machine as it will melt the ice and dilute your cocktail. Cool it in the fridge for 5 minutes first.
No Espresso Machine? Cold brew concentrate works perfectly as a substitute. Use the same measurements but expect a slightly different flavor profile.
Sweetness Control: The coffee liqueur already adds sweetness, so taste and adjust simple syrup accordingly. Start with less and add more if needed.
Foam Secret: The key to perfect foam is vigorous shaking for at least 15 seconds. Don't be gentle with the cocktail shaker!