ESPRESSO MARTINI

This is the only Espresso Martini recipe you’ll ever need. It’s tasty, edgy and sophisticated – three awesome reasons why it’s the most popular coffee cocktail in the world.
Reviews
4.2 from Reviews

INGREDIENTS

1 part Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur

1 part Absolut Vodka

1 part Espresso

3 Whole Coffee Beans

Ice cubes

30 ml Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur

30 ml Absolut Vodka

30 ml Espresso

3 Whole Coffee Beans

Ice cubes

1 oz Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur

1 oz Absolut Vodka

1 oz Espresso

3 Whole Coffee Beans

Ice cubes

HOW TO MAKE

  1. Add Kahlúa, Absolut Vodka, espresso coffee (cooled) and ice into a shaker.

  2. Shake hard for 15-20 seconds until the shaker feels chilled. This is the secret to creating that velvety foam.

  3. Using a fine strainer, pour the mixture into a martini or cocktail glass.

  4. Garnish with 3 coffee beans, for good luck.

Espresso martini how to mix

TOOLS YOU’LL NEED

Cocktail Shaker

We use a professional one, but you can also use a mason jar or blender bottle, or pretty much any container with a tight-fitting lid you can shake without spilling.

Fine Strainer

This removes the ice shards, any coffee grounds and helps create the froth on top of the drink. You can also use a fine-mesh sieve or something similar from your kitchen cupboards instead.

Coffee Machine or Espresso Maker

You can use a high-end machine, a pod system or a stovetop percolator, any sort works as long as it can produce a creamy espresso. Don’t have an espresso machine? You can also use instant coffee or cold brew or concentrate, but just remember it won’t give you that signature frothy finish.

Jigger or Measuring Instrument

You’ll need something to measure the right amounts of ingredients. If you don’t have a jigger, our pro tip is to use a 30 ml or 1 ounce shot glass to measure instead.

Martini Glass

We suggest using a martini glass to showcase the rich colour and creamy froth. If you don’t have one, any similar-shaped glass you have at home will do. Our favourite tip: place the glass in the freezer for 5 mins before serving for a frosty cocktail.

HOW TO MAKE THE PERFECT ESPRESSO MARTINI AT HOME

Creating the perfect Espresso Martini is easy! Simply follow our step-by-step guide for a velvety, creamy cocktail, every time:

Our Espresso Martini pro tips

1. Use Quality Espresso

We love to use freshly brewed espresso made from high-quality, dark roast coffee beans. But as always, use the espresso that tastes best to you. Hot tip: make sure it cools down before adding it, otherwise it will melt the ice and make the cocktail watery.

2. Shake Hard Until Cold and Frothy

To achieve that signature frothy top, shake your cocktail shaker half-filled with ice vigorously until the outside feels freezing cold. This not only chills the drink but also blends the ingredients perfectly to create a creamy texture.

3. Garnish Like a Pro

Our tip is to get creative. Try chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for a sweet and indulgent finish, chocolate covered coffee beans work too. A pinch of instant coffee adds a lovely aroma. Or our personal favourite, a dusting of cinnamon for a cozier feel.

4. Experiment with Variations

Our favourite variation is the Mexican Espresso Martini with tequila instead of vodka. We also love trying our other Kahlúa flavours like Salted Caramel or Mint Mocha. If you can’t get your hands on those, try adding a splash of flavoured syrups like hazelnut or vanilla, or try another favourite, the Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini. Get some inspiration from our Espresso Martini Variations page.

5. Adjust the Sweetness

If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, we suggest adding a splash of simple syrup to your mix. It enhances the sweetness without overpowering the rich coffee flavours, giving you a balanced cocktail. For our favourite recipe with simple syrup, check out the Vodka Espresso.

IF YOU LIKE THIS ESPRESSO MARTINI…

About the Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is a deliciously smooth and indulgent cocktail where the intense boldness of coffee meets the elegance of a classic drink. It’s a delightful blend of espresso, Kahlúa and Absolut Vodka, shaken to frothy perfection. Perfect for coffee lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike, this icon is tasty, edgy and sophisticated – three awesome reasons why it’s the most popular coffee cocktails in the world.

History of the Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini was born from the Vodka Espresso, which was originally created by London bartender legend Dick Bradsell in 1983 for a very famous model – whose name remains a mystery. As the story goes, she came into his bar and asked for a drink to “Wake her up and then (something we can’t say here).” So Bradsell combined some freshly brewed espresso coffee with Kahlúa, vodka and some sugar, gave it a shake and strained it into a martini glass, crafting what would become an iconic cocktail. Over the years, he refined and simplified the recipe into the beloved classic worldwide we know as the Espresso Martini.

What Does It Taste Like?

The Espresso Martini boasts a rich blend of flavours. The robust espresso provides a strong coffee base, while Kahlúa adds smooth sweetness with hints of vanilla and caramel. The Absolut Vodka gives a crisp finish, resulting in a velvety, frothy drink that’s both sweet and slightly bitter.

Why Is It So Popular?

The Espresso Martini’s popularity stems from its unique flavour combination and versatility. It suits various occasions – from after-dinner drinks to brunches. It’s easy to make yet sophisticated, and its rich taste and appealing presentation make it a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. In recent years, its popularity on social media platforms like Instagram and Tiktok has made it one of the most requested cocktails at bars around the world.

Espresso Martini Variations

Why not stir things up with some Espresso Martini Variations? Our top favourite made with tequila is the Tequila Espresso Martini. For a sweeter twist, we say try the Sugar Cookie Espresso Martini. If you’re a chocolate lover, the Chocolate Espresso Martini, or the Peppermint Espresso Martini. With so many possibilities, we’re certain there’s an Espresso Martini to perfectly suit your taste and occasion.

TOP TRENDING KAHLÚA COCKTAILS
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT

Top Espresso Martini FAQs: Your quick guide

What should the perfect Espresso Martini taste like?
How do I get that perfect frothy top on my Espresso Martini?
What does Kahlúa add to my Espresso Martini, flavour-wise?
What’s the difference between an Espresso Martini and a Black Russian?
Can I make an Espresso Martini without alcohol?
What’s the best coffee roast for espresso?
What if I don’t have a coffee machine?
Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?
Is it okay to use cold brew instead of espresso?
How can I make my Espresso Martini sweeter?
Why should I shake my Espresso Martini?
I don’t have a shaker for my Espresso Martini. What can I use instead?
Why do I need to strain my Espresso Martini?
What’s the best way to measure the ingredients for my Espresso Martini?
What type of ice should I use to shake the ingredients with?
What type of glass should I use for my Espresso Martini?
Why is my Espresso Martini too bitter?
Can I add spices to my Espresso Martini?
Can I add a flavoured syrup to my Espresso Martini?
What do the three coffee beans on the Espresso Martini mean?
What food can I pair with my Espresso Martini?
Can I prepare Espresso Martinis in advance or in a batch for a party?
How can I make my Espresso Martini extra special?
What can I do with my leftover ingredients?

Leftover Kahlúa: We suggest trying a classic White Russian by mixing Kahlúa with vodka and cream, or an even simpler Kahlúa and Milk or some of our other Kahlúa and Cream Drinks. For a dessert twist, drizzle it over vanilla ice cream or use it in some of our Kahlúa Bakes. Another indulgent favourite of ours is the Frozen Mudslide, which can be enjoyed as both a cocktail and a dessert.

Leftover vodka: You can use it to create a wide range of cocktails, including some of our Espresso Martini Variations. Our go-to alternative is the Black Russian, or for a fruity option, we sometimes like to make a Cosmopolitan by combining vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice. Vodka is also great for infusing with flavours – just add fruits, herbs or spices to create your own unique blends.

Leftover Espresso: This is great for making iced coffee or adding to smoothies. We also like to use it in our Kahlúa Bakes like brownies, cakes or even homemade Tiramisu for a rich coffee flavour. For more cocktail options, try some of our other Espresso Martini Variations.

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