Our Best Espresso Martini Recipe
This balanced cocktail is making a comeback – maybe because it’s quintessentially beautiful, with the two distinct layers: the first is intense, dark, and bitter, paired with the second slightly sweet, foamy crema. It’s smooth, aromatic, and the almost chocolatey flavor is indulgent without being too sweet or over-the-top. The pinch of salt rounds out the flavor, making you come back sip after sip. With only 5 ingredients, it’s ideal around the holidays! To make this martini espresso for a group, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of people in your party and batch the espresso in advance to chill.
What's In An Espresso Martini…
A timeless and simple cocktail, you’re probably wondering what liquor is best for an espresso martini. The classic martini usually contains vodka and vermouth, and for a twist, sometimes gin. Kahlua also makes an appearance with an underlying complexity to the coffee flavor, but feel free to use your favorite coffee liquor! If you’re a fan of the rich coffee flavor of Kahlua, check out our White Russian recipe.
In our espresso martini recipe, we use:
Vodka
Kahlua (or another coffee liqueur like Tia Maria…)
Hot espresso (or prepared instant coffee)
Pinch of salt
Coffee beans to garnish
How to Make an Espresso Martini
Follow these simple step-by-step instructions below for an easy original espresso martini recipe:
Mix it up! Add all the ingredients to the shaker except the coffee beans! Pro Tip: If you have time, chill the espresso and shaker before for the ultimate foamy layer.
Shake! Cover the shaker, and tap the back to ensure it’s in place before you start shaking. Shake vigorously for 45 seconds to create a thick foam.
Garnish! Strain and pour into a coupe glass. The layers will separate. Gently place two coffee beans on top.
How To Serve an Espresso Martini
There are a variety of occasions when an espresso martini is ideal: think boozy brunch, aperitivo hour, or even with dessert! For brunch, we like to pair it with hearty Belgian Waffles, a classic Eggs Benedict, or a Croque Monsieur. For apres hour, we like to pair our espresso martinis with Herbed Flatbread with Whipped Feta, A Perfect Cheese Board or Focaccia, and The Best Tomato Salad. It also makes for the perfect after-dinner pick-me-up beverage: part coffee and part cocktail. A delicious dessert pairing like Classic Brownies, Bailey’s Chocolate Bundt Cake, Salty Dark and Milk Chocolate Skillet Cookie, or, of course, Easy Tiramisu.
Tools You’ll Need for Best Espresso Martini
Our Favorite Cocktails!
Add some excitement to your menus! We’ve pulled four of our favorites, one which can be adjusted without alcohol:
A classic Campari Spritz
A Vanilla Plum Shrub (which can be enjoyed by the non-drinking crowd using club soda)
And for our grapefruit fans: Charred Grapefruit & Mezcal Paloma Sour or a Grapefruit Pisco Sour with Orange Bitters
Cheers!
Enjoy this smooth espresso martini with your family and friends! How did they turn out? Tag us on Instagram using @themodernproper and #themodernproper. Happy eating!
