Go Back
Espresso Martini Cocktail Drink

Easy Espresso Martini Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
4.34 from 3 votes
Prepare an Espresso Martini with this recipe, which includes vodka, coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso. This cocktail offers a balanced combination of flavors suitable for an evening occasion.
Prep time: 2 minutes
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 151

Ingredients
 

  • 1½ oz Vodka
  • ½ oz coffee Liqueur
  • 1½ oz freshly brewed espresso
  • Ice cubes
  • Coffee beans - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Martini Glass
  • Strainer

Instructions

  • Chill Glass: Place your Martini glass in the freezer for a few hours, or fill it with ice cubes to chill.
  • Add Vodka: In the cocktail shaker, measure and pour 1½ oz Vodka.
  • Pour Coffee Liqueur: Add ½ oz coffee Liqueur to the mix.
  • Add Espresso: Measure and pour 1½ oz freshly brewed espresso.
  • Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
  • Shake Well: Shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
  • Strain: Discard the ice from the martini glass and fine strain the mixture.
  • Garnish: Drop a few coffee beans on top for garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Vodka: I've successfully used rum or gin when I'm out of vodka. The flavors are different but still create an exciting cocktail.
  • Coffee Liqueur: No coffee liqueur? I've used a mixture of simple syrup and strong cold-brew as a backup.
  • Espresso: Strong brewed coffee or even cold brew concentrate can be used in a pinch. It's quite different, but it gets the job done.

Making a Pitcher:

  • Scale: To serve 8, you'll need 12 oz of vodka, 4 oz of coffee liqueur, and 12 oz of freshly brewed espresso.
  • Mix: In a large pitcher, combine all ingredients with ice cubes and stir well.
  • Serve: Strain the mixture into chilled Martini glasses, garnish, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Vodka Substitute: A non-alcoholic vodka substitute is available at many specialty stores.
  • Coffee Liqueur Substitute: Replace with a blend of non-alcoholic coffee syrup and cold brew coffee.
  • Proceed As Usual: Swap in these non-alcoholic options and follow the original instructions.

Making it Vegan:

  • Coffee Liqueur: Some coffee liqueurs may contain animal products for flavoring or coloring. Opt for a vegan-certified brand.
  • Espresso: Ensure the coffee brand you're using is vegan-friendly. Most are, but it always helps to check.