Espresso Martini: The Ultimate Coffee Cocktail

We’ve crafted the ultimate guide to making an exceptional Espresso Martini that rivals any high-end cocktail lounge. This sophisticated coffee cocktail balances premium vodka with freshly pulled espresso for a drink that’s simultaneously rich, smooth, and energizing.

A frothy espresso martini garnished with coffee beans sits on a tiled surface.

Watch 🎥: How to Make this Smooth Espresso Cocktail

What Is an Espresso Martini Cocktail?

Created in 1983 by legendary London bartender Dick Bradsell when a young model requested something that would “wake her up and mess her up,” the Espresso Martini has evolved from a 1980s trend into a modern classic that perfectly bridges the gap between cocktail hour and after-dinner drinks.

Side show of an espresso martini in a martini glass with light and plant shadows in the background.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

SMOOTH AND BALANCED – The perfect balance of premium vodka and fresh espresso creates a sophisticated cocktail with a silky smooth finish and that signature crema top.
PICTURE PERFECT – Our precise measurements and technique ensure you’ll achieve that coveted, Instagram-worthy foam every single time.

What You Need to Make an Espresso Martini

Vodka: Choose a premium vodka that won’t compete with the coffee notes.
Kahlúa: The classic coffee liqueur adds depth and sweetness.
Espresso: Freshly pulled and slightly cooled for the best results.
Brown Sugar Syrup: Adds complexity and balances the coffee’s natural bitterness.
Garnish: Three coffee beans, traditionally representing health, wealth, and happiness.

How to Make an Espresso Martini

Step 1: Pull your espresso shot and let it cool for 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Fill your shaker with ice, then add vodka, Kahlúa, cooled espresso, and brown sugar syrup.
Step 3: Shake vigorously for at least 30 seconds – this is crucial for achieving that perfect crema.
Step 4: Double strain into a chilled martini glass for the smoothest possible texture.

Expert Recipe Tips

Tip 1: Chill your martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Tip 2: Use freshly pulled espresso rather than cold brew or regular coffee for the best foam.
Tip 3: The harder and longer you shake, the better your foam layer will be.

Coffee beans floating atop a frothy espresso martini.

How to Serve This Espresso Martini

Serve immediately in a chilled martini glass. The three coffee beans should float perfectly atop the crema, creating an elegant presentation that signals a properly crafted cocktail.

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Ingredients

2 oz vodka
1 oz Kahlua
1 oz Espresso
1/2 oz brown sugar syrup or simple syrup
Espresso beans for garnish

Instructions

Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice.
Shake for atleast 30 seconds or until chilled and frothy.
Strain in a chilled martini glass and garnish with espresso beans.

Video

Servings: 1 cocktail

Author: Kita

Recipe FAQs

Can I use cold brew instead of espresso?

While possible, fresh espresso creates the signature foam that makes this cocktail special.

Why isn’t my drink getting foamy?

The key is vigorous shaking for at least 30 seconds and using fresh espresso.

Can I make this decaf?

Absolutely. Use decaf espresso – the technique remains the same.

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