How to Make An Espresso Martini: Mixing coffee and alcohol creates a sophisticated, bold drink that can help you wake up and unwind simultaneously. The espresso martini is a quintessential coffee cocktail, combining sleek sophistication with robust flavor. Here’s how to make a classic espresso martini and a delightful variation for Irish coffee lovers.
How to Make An Espresso Martini: How Do You Make an Espresso Martini?
To start, gather your ingredients. Quality matters, but you don’t need anything extravagant. The better the ingredients, the better the final drink will taste.
Ingredients
– 1 oz espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 2 oz vodka
– ½ oz coffee liqueur
– ¼ oz simple syrup
– 3 coffee beans for garnish
– Handful of ice cubes
– Cocktail shaker
– Chilled martini glass
Choosing the Best Ingredients
– Espresso: Use any coffee variety you enjoy for the espresso shot. Medium or dark roasts with bold chocolate and nutty flavor profiles work best. Check out our list of the best espresso beans for some great suggestions.
– Liqueur: Kahlúa is the most popular coffee liqueur for an espresso martini, but Tia Maria or Mr. Black’s are excellent alternatives.
– Vodka: A mid-level vodka, such as Absolut, is ideal. Avoid the cheapest brands as they can have a harsh alcohol flavor that overwhelms the coffee. Unflavored vodka is preferred, though an espresso-flavored vodka can enhance the coffee taste.
– Ice: Essential for chilling and frothing the drink, though it isn’t part of the final beverage.
– Cocktail Shaker:The easiest way to mix this drink due to its built-in strainer. If you don’t have one, a chilled mason jar can work as an alternative.
Can You Make This Recipe Without an Espresso Machine?
Fresh espresso provides a richer body and more flavor, but you can make an espresso martini without an espresso machine. Replace the espresso with 1 ounce of strong coffee, prepared with a French press, Moka pot, Nespresso pod, or good-quality instant coffee or espresso powder. Alternatively, use cold brew coffee concentrate.
The Classic Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe
With your ingredients ready, let’s make a delicious espresso martini. This easy drink is ready in minutes with this step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Pull a Shot of Espresso
Use an espresso machine to pull a single shot (1 ounce) of espresso and add it to the cocktail shaker. If your machine has enough clearance, brew directly into the shaker.
For those without an espresso machine, prepare a very strong coffee and add 1 ounce to your cocktail shaker.
**Pro tip:** Use decaf espresso if you want to enjoy this cocktail in the evening and still get a good night’s sleep.
Step 2: Add Liquor
Add 2 ounces of vodka and ½ ounce of coffee liqueur to the brewed espresso or coffee in the shaker.
Step 3: Add Simple Syrup
Add ¼ ounce of simple syrup to the shaker. If you prefer a sweeter drink, increase it to ½ ounce.
Pro tip: Simple syrup is easy to make. Heat a 50:50 mixture of white sugar and water until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before use.
Step 4: Add Ice and Shake
Add a handful of ice cubes to the cocktail shaker. Your ounce of espresso should have cooled by now, so it won’t melt the ice or dilute the drink.
Seal the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for at least 30 seconds. This chills the ingredients thoroughly and creates a frothy cocktail.
Strain the drink into a chilled martini glass, leaving the ice behind in the shaker. Allow the froth to settle on the surface.
Garnish with three coffee beans, or get creative with an orange twist or chocolate shavings.
Pro tip: Always chill your glass if you plan on serving a cold drink. Pop your martini glasses in the freezer a few hours before prepping this recipe.
Is Kahlúa or Baileys Better for an Espresso Martini?
The traditional recipe calls for Kahlúa or another coffee liqueur. However, for a delicious variation, try using Baileys Irish Cream.
Baileys Espresso Martini Variation
Ingredients:
-2 oz vodka
– 1 oz Bailey’s Original Irish Cream
– 1 shot of espresso: Skip the simple syrup as Bailey’s is quite sweet.
Steps:
1. Add the vodka, Bailey’s, and espresso to a cocktail shaker.
2. Add a handful of ice cubes.
3. Shake vigorously for at least 30 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish as desired.
This variation combines the creamy sweetness of Baileys with the robust flavor of espresso, offering a delightful twist on the classic espresso martini.
How to Make an Espresso Martini: Final Thoughts
The espresso martini is a versatile and sophisticated cocktail that’s easy to prepare at home. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or try the Baileys variation, you’ll enjoy a drink that’s both invigorating and relaxing. Experiment with different ingredients and garnishes to make this coffee cocktail your own. Cheers!
FAQS:
