The Best (and Easiest!) Espresso Martini Recipe
jump toRECIPE
This easy, three-step espresso martini recipe is a rich, frothy coffee cocktail made with freshly brewed espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur shaken until perfectly chilled and creamy. With its smooth coffee flavor, lightly sweet finish, and signature foam topping, this classic cocktail is ideal for happy hour, date nights, dinner parties, or an easy at-home cocktail recipe. It’s a simple yet elevated drink that comes together in minutes with just a few ingredients. If you want to try making more elevated cocktails at home, try this three-step mezcal bloody Maria or my ultra-refreshing pineapple ginger smash for a more tropical vibe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – This espresso martini comes together in just a few minutes with simple ingredients.
- Smooth and balanced – The combination of espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur creates the perfect balance of bold coffee flavor and sweetness.
- Restaurant-quality cocktail – Shaking the cocktail creates the signature frothy top that makes espresso martinis feel elevated and impressive.
Key Ingredients in This Recipe
- Vodka – Vodka is a clear, distilled spirit that doesn’t necessarily have as many hard and fast rules as other liquors. It’s created by extracting starch from various grains, fruits and vegetables; commonly potatoes, wheat or rice. Vodka at its base is less flavorful than other spirits which makes it a perfect pairing for this espresso martini. I used Amass vodka in this recipe.
- Espresso – Espresso is a more highly concentrated coffee containing much more caffeine. The beans are typically roasted longer, with a finer grind. I have a Nespresso machine I use to create the espresso which makes for a frothy martini, though a cold brew concentrate can also be used.
- Coffee liqueur – The most popular brand of coffee liqueur is Kahlua though I recommend the brand Mr. Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur. While some restaurants use Bailey’s I find it much too creamy for this cocktail.
- Simple syrup – Simple syrup is made by boiling equal parts sugar and water to form a sticky, smooth syrup that will mix easily into cocktails. Bring 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water to a boil then cool completely. Make and store it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Coffee beans – Coffee beans are used on the top of an espresso martini for garnish inspired by the traditional serving of saltimbocca. Using three is said to represent health, wealth and happiness, called “con la mosca.”
A full ingredient list with exact amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
Pro Tip
Use freshly brewed espresso that has cooled slightly before shaking the cocktail. Fresh espresso creates a thicker, creamier foam layer than cold coffee or espresso that has been sitting too long. You can put the espresso in the freezer for a few minutes to cool it quickly.
Swaps and Substitutions
- Vodka: Substitute with vanilla vodka, reposado tequila, or bourbon for a twist on the classic cocktail.
- Coffee liqueur: Use Kahlúa, Mr Black, Tia Maria, or another coffee liqueur.
- Espresso: Swap with strong cold brew concentrate or very strong brewed coffee if needed.
- Simple syrup: Adjust the sweetness with more or less syrup depending on your preference.
- Garnish: Top with coffee beans, cocoa powder, shaved chocolate, or cinnamon.
How to Make an Espresso Martini (Step-by-Step)
- Add ingredients to shaker. Add vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur and then simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake. Shake vigorously until foam forms.
- Strain and serve. Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with espresso beans. Then serve immediately.
How to Serve an Espresso Martini
- Classic cocktail hour: Serve in a chilled martini glass with three coffee beans on top.
- Dessert pairing: Pair with tiramisu, chocolate cake, biscotti, or affogato.
- Brunch cocktail: Serve alongside pastries, pancakes, or savory brunch dishes.
- Holiday entertaining: Add a dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon for a festive touch.
How to Store an Espresso Martini
- Store leftover cocktail: Refrigerate leftover espresso martini in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
- Prepare ahead: Brew the espresso and chill it ahead of time for faster cocktail assembly.
- Shake before serving: Re-shake the cocktail with ice before serving to recreate the frothy texture.
- Avoid freezing: Freezing can dull the texture and flavor of the cocktail.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Vodka is the traditional choice because it has a neutral flavor that lets the espresso and coffee liqueur stand out.
The crema from freshly brewed espresso creates the signature frothy foam when shaken vigorously with ice.
Yes. Strong cold brew concentrate or strongly brewed coffee can work as substitutes, though the foam may be less pronounced.
Kahlúa and Mr Black are two of the most popular options because they add rich coffee flavor and sweetness.
The three coffee beans are a traditional garnish that symbolizes health, wealth, and happiness.
Other Recipes to Try
If you loved putting together this classic espresso martini recipe, try one of my other favorites next:
Thanks for cooking with me! If you made this recipe, leave a 🌟 rating and share your thoughts or tips below. I’d love to hear from you!
Espresso Martini Recipe
Rate this Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce espresso or cold brew concentrate, cooled
- ½ ounce coffee liqueur
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- 3 espresso beans, for garnish
Instructions:
- Add vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake hard until foam forms.
- Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with espresso beans. Serve immediately.
Watch this Recipe
Notes:
Nutrition:
TAG ME ON INSTAGRAM TO BE FEATURED ON MY STORIES! @cookingwithcocktailrings
We made these last weekend while family was in town. What a perfect pick me up cocktail. I love coffee flavored things and this did not disappoint. Everyone loved them and kept our energy level up for holiday activities.