Espresso Martini Recipe: The Coffee Cocktail Everyone Wants Right Now

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The espresso martini has become one of the most-ordered cocktails at bars worldwide, and for good reason: it is rich, caffeinated, and delicious. The good news is it is also easy to make at home once you know the technique.

Classic Espresso Martini Recipe

Ingredients

• 50ml (1.75 oz) vodka
• 25ml (0.85 oz) Kahlua or coffee liqueur
• 30ml (1 oz) freshly brewed espresso (cooled)
• 1 tsp simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
• Ice
• 3 coffee beans to garnish

Method

1. Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Do not use hot espresso – it melts the ice and dilutes the drink.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add vodka, Kahlua, espresso, and simple syrup.
4. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds – longer than you think. The vigorous shake creates the signature foam.
5. Double strain into a chilled martini glass (use both the shaker strainer and a fine mesh strainer).
6. Garnish with 3 coffee beans.

The Secret to Perfect Espresso Martini Foam

The frothy foam on top is what separates a great espresso martini from a mediocre one. Three things create it: freshly brewed espresso (the natural oils create foam), vigorous shaking (15+ seconds with plenty of ice), and double straining (removes ice chips that kill the foam).

Best Vodka for Espresso Martinis

Use a clean, neutral vodka – you want the coffee flavor to shine. Top picks: Ketel One, Grey Goose, or Absolut. Avoid heavily flavored vodkas. Check Ketel One Vodka on Amazon

Coffee Liqueur: Kahlua vs Alternatives

Kahlua is the classic choice – sweet, coffee-forward, widely available. Alternatives: Mr Black (less sweet, stronger coffee), Tia Maria (lighter, vanilla notes). For a stronger coffee flavor, try Mr Black. Mr Black Coffee Liqueur on Amazon

Essential Equipment

• Cocktail shaker (Boston or Cobbler) – you need a proper shaker for the foam
• Fine mesh strainer – essential for double straining
• Chilled martini glasses – chill in the freezer 15 min before serving
• Espresso machine or Moka pot – instant coffee will not produce proper foam

Related Reading

• How to Build a Home Bar
• Best Bar Tools for Home Bartenders
• Classic Margarita Recipe