Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe – Whether you’re finishing a dinner party in style or just need a cocktail that keeps the vibe alive and gives you a caffeine boost, the Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe is your answer. Created in the 1980s by legendary bartender Dick Bradsell in London, this classy yet edgy drink has since become a staple on cocktail menus around the world.
It’s bold. It’s smooth. It’s creamy without cream. And it’s one of the few cocktails that combines coffee and alcohol in perfect harmony.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Active Time: 3 minutes
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Resting Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 8 minutes
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Servings: 1 cocktail
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Cuisine: Modern European / International
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Course: Cocktail / After-dinner drink
Equipment Needed
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Espresso machine or coffee maker
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Cocktail shaker
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Jigger or shot glass
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Fine mesh strainer (optional, for smoother texture)
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Martini glass (chilled)
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Ice
Ingredients
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2 oz vodka
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1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
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1 oz freshly brewed espresso (hot or slightly cooled)
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½ oz simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
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Ice cubes
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Garnish: 3 whole coffee beans
Instructions
Step 1: Brew Fresh Espresso
Start by brewing 1 oz of espresso using an espresso machine or a strong coffee method like AeroPress or moka pot. Let it cool for a minute so it doesn’t melt the ice too fast in the shaker.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Shaker
In a cocktail shaker, combine:
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2 oz vodka
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1 oz coffee liqueur
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1 oz espresso
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½ oz simple syrup (optional, but recommended if you like it sweeter)
Fill the shaker halfway with ice.
Step 3: Shake Hard and Fast
Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds. This is what creates that beautiful, foamy crema on top. The harder you shake, the better the froth!
Step 4: Strain and Pour
Double strain into a chilled martini glass to remove ice chips and coffee grounds. This gives it a silky, smooth finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with 3 coffee beans in the center—symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness. Serve immediately while cold and foamy.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Sugars | 12 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 3 mg |
| Caffeine | ~60–80 mg |
| Alcohol by Volume | ~15–18% ABV |
Flavor Profile
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Rich and bold from espresso
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Sweet and smooth from coffee liqueur
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Strong and clean from vodka
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Balanced and bittersweet on the finish
It’s like drinking a luxurious iced coffee—only it has a kick.
Why You’ll Love This Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe
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☕ Caffeine + cocktail = late-night favorite
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🍸 Elegant presentation for dinner parties
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🕒 Quick to make with minimal ingredients
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🌱 Vegan-friendly and dairy-free
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🍬 Customizable – adjust sweetness or strength to your liking
Tips & Variations
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Use real espresso. Instant coffee won’t give you the crema or richness. A moka pot or Nespresso shot works fine too.
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Cool your espresso slightly. Hot espresso melts the ice too fast, diluting the drink.
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Try different liqueurs. Swap Kahlúa with Mr. Black (a less sweet option) or Tia Maria.
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Add a flavored twist. A splash of vanilla or hazelnut syrup can add depth.
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Make a mocha martini. Add ½ oz of chocolate liqueur or a spoonful of cocoa powder.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use cold brew instead of espresso?
Yes, but espresso gives the best crema and intensity. If using cold brew, go for a concentrate.
Q2: What’s the best vodka to use?
Choose a clean, neutral vodka. Premium brands like Grey Goose, Ketel One, or Tito’s work well.
Q3: Do I need simple syrup?
It’s optional. If your coffee liqueur is sweet enough, you can skip it. But if you like it balanced, ½ oz helps.
Q4: Why are there three coffee beans on top?
It’s an Italian tradition symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness.
Q5: Can I make this in batches for a party?
Yes! Multiply ingredients, mix in a pitcher, chill, then shake individual servings before pouring to preserve froth.
