Get cozy this winter with a straightforward Mezcal Espresso Martini recipe! It uses Mezcal, espresso, coffee liqueur, and a bit of agave syrup to create a stimulating cocktail.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 188
Ingredients
- 1½ oz Mezcal
- ½ oz coffee Liqueur
- ⅓ oz agave syrup
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
- 2 dashes of Xocolatl Mole Bitters - optional
- Ice cubes
- Coffee beans - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Coupe Glass
- Cocktail Shaker
- Cocktail Strainer
- Fine strainer
- Measuring Jigger
Instructions
- Chill Glass: Fill a cocktail glass (coupe style) with ice and set it aside..
- Add Bitters (optional): Pour 2 dashes of Xocolatl Mole Bitters into the shaker.
- Add Agave Syrup: Measure out and pour ⅓ oz agave syrup into the shaker.
- Add Espresso: Add 1 oz freshly brewed espresso to the shaker.
- Add Coffee Liqueur: Add ½ oz coffee Liqueur.
- Add Mezcal: Finally, add 1½ oz Mezcal into the shaker.
- Shake Well: Fill the shaker with ice, cap it and give it a good shake (10-15 seconds).
- Strain: Discard the ice inside the cocktail glass. Using both the cocktail strainer and the fine strainer, strain the mixture into the chilled glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with a few coffee beans on top.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Mezcal: If you don't have Mezcal on hand, you can use tequila as a substitute. It won't have the same smoky flavor but will still work well with the coffee notes.
- Coffee Liqueur: If you're out of coffee, try using a dark creme de cacao or a chocolate liqueur for a different twist.
- Agave syrup: if you’re out of agave syrup, you can use simple syrup or cane sugar syrup.
- Mole Bitters: you can also try using chocolate or cocoa bitters, or simply omit the bitters altogether.
- Espresso: Strong brewed coffee can be used instead if you don't have an espresso machine.
Making a Pitcher of Mezcal Espresso Martini:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 12 oz of Mezcal, 4 oz of coffee liqueur, 8 oz of freshly brewed espresso, 2½ oz of agave syrup, and 16 dashes of Mole Bitters (if using).
- Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the Mezcal, coffee liqueur, and espresso. Add ice and stir well.
- Serve: Strain to remove the ice, serve immediately into chilled coupe glasses, and garnish with coffee beans. If you have some leftovers, be sure to keep it in the fridge (make sure no ice cubes are left inside) in an airtight container.
- Bartender’s tips: Once you’ve removed the ice from the pitcher, you can use a handheld frother to emulsify the drink and create a nice layer of foam on top.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Mezcal Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic spirit that has a smoky flavor profile, or a non-alcoholic tequila substitute; several brands are available that mimic Tequila's flavor quite well. You can also try making your own substitute by mixing together water, a pinch of smoked salt, a splash of tonic and a bit of agave syrup (to taste).
- Coffee Liqueur Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic coffee-flavored syrup.
- Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes instead of the regular ingredients, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version.
Making it Vegan:
- Check Your Labels: Ensure your Mezcal, coffee liqueur, and espresso are vegan-friendly. Some brands may use animal products in their production process.
- Proceed As Usual: Once you've confirmed all your vegan ingredients, follow the original steps to make your vegan Mezcal Espresso Martini.
What is a Mezcal Espresso Martini?
A Mezcal Espresso Martini is a smoky, coffee-based cocktail made of Mezcal, espresso, and coffee liqueur. This drink is easy to make if you can access fresh espresso and quality mezcal. It’s an exciting variant of the well-known Espresso Martini, which traditionally uses vodka instead of Mezcal. The unique aspect that sets this cocktail apart from others lies in its combination – the smoky flavor profile from the Mezcal perfectly complements the rich bitterness derived from freshly brewed espresso.
What is a Mezcal Espresso Martini made of – The ingredients
The formula for a Mezcal Espresso Martini requires these ingredients:
- Mezcal: A smoky agave-based liquor, it forms the cocktail’s base and provides a robust flavor profile.
- Espresso: This strong coffee adds a rich, bitter taste and a caffeine kick.
- Coffee Liqueur: Enhances the espresso’s flavor and adds a sweet touch.
- Agave Syrup: Balances out the bitterness of the espresso and the smokiness of the Mezcal with its sweetness.
- Three Coffee Beans: Used as a garnish, they represent health, wealth, and happiness.
