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This creamy espresso martini is a robust, sophisticated cocktail made with simple ingredients. If it weren’t for the cocktail glass, looking at it, you might think it’s a cold brew or strong coffee drink.
Looking for another dessert cocktail recipe? Try this dairy-free eggnog spiked with brandy or a pumpkin spice white Russian next time.
It feels like this elegant cocktail has been having its moment of late — and I can see why!
It’s the perfect pick-me-up drink at the start of the night, and the perfect after-dinner drink to enjoy with dessert like these gluten-free biscotti, paleo chocolate cake, or hazelnut shortbread cookies with Nutella ganache.
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic drink with fresh espresso, try this iced cinnamon dolce latte or a iced pumpkin spice latte.
How to Make This Creamy Espresso Martini Recipe
The full printable recipe is below, but let’s walk through the steps with some photos and a video so you have a clear idea of what to expect. This traditional espresso martini is really easy and these step-by-step instructions will make sure they turn out every time.
Make simple syrup. Heat equal parts water and granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves then allow it to cool.
Brew and cool espresso. Brew a shot of espresso and allow it to cool to room temperature.
Espresso alternative: see the recipe card for instant coffee or cold brew options.
Combine ingredients. Fill a cocktail shaker or mason jar with ice cubes. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, simple syrup, and heavy cream to the shaker.
Shake and serve. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This will chill and mix the ingredients thoroughly. Strain the drink into a chilled glass and top with coffee beans and sifted cocoa powder.
Espresso Martini Variation
- This recipe calls for Kahlua coffee liqueur, but you can substitute with Bailey’s Irish cream liqueur to still make a delicious espresso martini.
- Not a fan of vodka? Try a gin espresso martini instead.
- Use a flavored vodka like marshmallow or vanilla vodka.
- Make it a virgin cocktail by using heavy cream in place of the Kahlua and omitting the vodka.
- Want less caffeine? Make it with decaf espresso.
- Don’t have an espresso maker? Try cold brew coffee, cold brew concentrate, or instant espresso powder instead.
- If you really want to take this drink to the next level, you could garnish the rim of your martini glass with chocolate syrup and crushed chocolate shavings.
Expert Recipe Tips
- For best results, make sure you allow time for the espresso to cool completely before you pour it over the ice.
- Be sure to use freshly brewed espresso and to shake the cocktail for a full 15 seconds to get the frothiest foam on top.
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Creamy Espresso Martini Recipe
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Ingredients
Simple Syrup (4 Servings)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar or honey
Creamy Espresso Martini
- 1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) vodka (I used Titos)
- 1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) Kahlua
- 1 ounce (1 shot; 2 Tablespoons) espresso (Note 1)
- 1 ounce (2 Tablespoons) cold heavy cream
- .5 ounce (1 Tablespoon) simple syrup more or less to taste
- Ice cubes
- Coffee beans for garnish
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine equal parts water and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Let it cool, and then transfer to a clean container. You can store any extra simple syrup in the refrigerator for future use.
- Brew a shot of espresso and allow it to cool to room temperature. Alternately, use cold brew coffee, instant espresso, or cold brew concentrate.
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, simple syrup, and heavy cream to the shaker. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This will chill and mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass and serve with coffee beans. Sift cocoa powder on top for an added garnish if desired.
Notes
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
