Espresso Martini recipe. How do you make an Espresso Martini?

An Espresso Martini is a classic cocktail made with vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur. It is rich, elegant, and a popular choice when you want to serve a festive after-dinner coffee drink. Here you will find our best Espresso Martini recipe with ingredients, measurements, and simple steps.

How do you make an Espresso Martini?

This is a simple Espresso Martini recipe for those who want to mix the drink at home with few ingredients. The key to a great result is high-quality cold espresso, plenty of ice, and shaking the drink vigorously to achieve that classic frothy top.

Ingredients

Recipe for 2 glasses

• 1 chilled double espresso (6 cl)
• 1 cl syrup/flavoring
• 2 cl vodka
• Coffee beans or dark chocolate for topping

Instructions

1. Brew the espresso and let it cool completely. Cold espresso makes for a better and smoother drink.
2. Place martini glasses in the freezer to chill.
3. Fill a shaker with plenty of ice to make your drink truly cold.
4. Pour the cold espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur into the shaker.
5. Shake vigorously for about 15–20 seconds until the shaker feels very cold.
6. Carefully strain the drink into a well-chilled martini glass.
7. Top with a few coffee beans or a little grated dark chocolate.
8. Serve immediately!

Frequently asked questions

Which coffee liqueur is best for an Espresso Martini?

Kahlúa is a classic choice for an Espresso Martini, but Tia Maria and Mr Black also work well. In our Espresso Martini recipe, we use coffee liqueur to enhance the flavor and give the drink its characteristic depth. If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of coffee liqueur, adjust to taste, or replace part of it with simple syrup.

What is the origin of the drink?

The drink was created in London by legendary bartender Dick Bradsell in the late 1980s. Originally called a Vodka Espresso, it became known as an Espresso Martini during the 90s, thanks to being served in the iconic martini glass. Since then, it has become a modern classic and a favorite around the world.

How do you get the best foam?

The key to a truly beautiful layer of foam is temperature and technique. To achieve foam, the drink must be well chilled and shaken thoroughly with ice. The freshly brewed espresso also helps to create the characteristic foam and gives the drink a nice, dense head. Strain the drink directly into the glass for the best results.