Crafting the Perfect Espresso Martini – Tips and Tricks

Espresso martinis bring together the boldness of coffee and the smooth edge of vodka in one luxurious, energizing cocktail.

Perfect for late-night gatherings or a chic after-dinner pick-me-up, this drink balances bitterness, sweetness, and a velvety finish.

Serve in a chilled martini glass with a garnish of coffee beans or a light dusting of cocoa powder for extra flair.

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Espresso Martini

It’s a luxurious drink that offers both elegance and energy—perfect for late-night parties, sophisticated dinners, or anytime you crave a cocktail that wakes up your senses.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

Course Beverage, Cocktail

Cuisine Modern

Servings 1

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Fine mesh strainer
• Jigger or measuring tool
• Espresso machine or coffee maker or use cold brew concentrate
• Martini glass chilled

Ingredients

  

• 2 oz  vodka
• 1 oz  coffee liqueur e.g., Kahlúa
• 1 oz  freshly brewed espresso or strong cold brew concentrate
• 0.5 oz  simple syrup adjust to taste
• Ice cubes
• 3 coffee beans for garnish

Instructions

 

• Brew espresso and let it cool slightly - room temperature works best to avoid melting ice too quickly.
  
• Fill a shaker halfway with ice cubes.

  Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup into the shaker.

  Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to chill and create a foamy top.
  
• Strain into a chilled martini glass using a fine mesh strainer for a smooth finish.

  Garnish with three coffee beans placed on the foam. Serve immediately
  

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips:

• Strong espresso yields better flavor. If using cold brew, concentrate it to match espresso intensity.
• Shake hard—air and agitation create that signature foam layer.
• Chill the glass beforehand for a cleaner, colder sip.
• Adjust sweetness based on preference by modifying the simple syrup ratio.
• For a creamier version, substitute coffee liqueur with one that contains cream or add a splash of Baileys.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210 kcal
Carbohydrates	17g
Serving Size	~120g
Sodium	2mg
Potassium	60mg
Sugar	14g
Calcium	3mg
Iron	0.1mg

Keyword Cocktail Recipe, Coffee Cocktail

Are There any Other Ingredients You Can Use?

Switching up ingredients in an espresso martini opens the door to new flavor profiles while keeping the cocktail’s essence intact. One simple swap is using a flavored vodka; vanilla or caramel vodka adds warmth and depth, while hazelnut vodka introduces a nutty undertone.

For those who prefer a less boozy version, reducing the vodka and increasing the coffee liqueur or adding a splash of milk-based liqueur like Baileys can smooth out the intensity.

For a more intense coffee experience, cold brew concentrate or nitro cold brew can replace espresso, especially when brewing isn’t convenient. Sweeteners also offer room for creativity; maple syrup or agave nectar can be used in place of simple syrup, each bringing its own subtle twist.

Coffee liqueur alternatives like Mr Black, Tia Maria, or even a homemade coffee-infused spirit give room to tailor the drink’s bitterness and sweetness levels.

The Bottom Line

Crafting an espresso martini allows room for creativity while staying true to its bold, elegant roots. By playing with ingredients like flavored vodka, alternative sweeteners, or different coffee bases, it’s easy to personalize the drink to suit any preference or occasion.

Perfect for evenings that call for something smooth and energizing, it’s a cocktail that blends simplicity with sophistication. A few quality ingredients, a good shake, and a chilled glass are all it takes to bring bar-quality flair right into your own kitchen.