Espresso Martini Cocktail ☕🍸
The7 Espresso Martini is a modern classic that perfectly combines the bold richness of coffee with the smooth kick of vodka. Unlike traditional cocktails that are fruity or bitter, this one delivers a velvety, bittersweet taste with a creamy foam on top – making it as indulgent as it is energizing.
Invented in the 1980s by legendary bartender Dick Bradsell in London, the story goes that a famous model asked for a drink that would “wake me up, then mess me up.” The Espresso Martini was born – a cocktail that’s now considered the ultimate mix of sophistication, caffeine, and style. Personally, I always recommend this cocktail in the afternoon, after the job (while working as bartender, 05PM wad a peak time for it).
Are you are interesed in other classic bitter king, Negroni.
Why is it special?
This cocktail stands out because it balances bitterness from coffee, sweetness from coffee liqueur, and the crisp dryness of vodka. The result is a cocktail that feels like a dessert and a nightcap in one.
Food Pairings:
The Espresso Martini is best enjoyed with:
rich chocolate desserts 🍫,
tiramisu or panna cotta 🍮,
Biscotti or almond cookies 🍪,
cheese boards with creamy brie 🧀.
Recipe Details
⏱️ Preparation Time: 3 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 4 minutes
🔥 Difficulty: 2/5
💪 Nutritional Value (per serving): around 200 kcal
🥃 Ingredients
🍸 4 cl (1.35 oz) vodka
🍫 2 cl (0.65 oz) coffee liqueur (Kahlúa is classic)
☕ 3 cl (1 oz) freshly brewed espresso (hot & strong)
❄️ Ice cubes
🌰 Garnish: 3 coffee beans (traditional for Espresso Martini)
How to Make Espresso Martini
1. Brew a fresh shot of espresso and let it cool slightly (but don’t let it get cold).
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso.
4. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds – this creates the signature foam.
5. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish with 3 coffee beans arranged in the center for luck and tradition.
💡 Pro Tips for the Best Espresso Martini
Use freshly brewed espresso – instant coffee won’t give the same crema or flavor.
Shake hard – the foam is the hallmark of this cocktail.
For extra sweetness, add 0.5 cl (0.15 oz) simple syrup.
Try flavor twists like vanilla vodka or a touch of hazelnut liqueur for a modern variation.
Best Ways to Enjoy Espresso Martini
Perfect as a digestif after dinner.
Amazing with desserts like tiramisu or molten chocolate cake.
A stylish choice for late-night cocktail parties.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Espresso Martini without coffee liqueur?Yes, but you’ll lose sweetness and depth. If you don’t have it, add a little sugar syrup and more espresso.
2. Does Espresso Martini contain caffeine?Yes – it has as much caffeine as a shot of espresso. Perfect for a late-night energy boost.
3. Can I batch-make Espresso Martinis for parties?You can pre-mix vodka and coffee liqueur, but espresso should be brewed fresh for the best foam and flavor.