Ingredients

• Espresso Shot: 30 ml (1 oz.)
• Vodka: 50 ml (1.7 oz.)
• Coffee Liqueur (e.g. Kahlúa): 20 ml (0.7 oz.)
• Simple Syrup: 10 ml (0.3 oz.)
• Ice Cubes: As needed

Taste the potent flair of espresso mixed with velvety vodka. Feel the smooth richness of coffee liqueur. Smell the warm, inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Savour the sweetness of sugar syrup. Cheers with an Espresso Martini!

Recipe

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to cool.
2. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and frothy.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with three coffee beans on the surface of the drink.

Bartending Tips

Why Use a Stainless Steel Shaker? A stainless steel shaker keeps your drink cold and mixes ingredients better than plastic, ensuring a rich foam on top.

Measuring Tools Matter For consistent cocktails, always use jiggers to measure ingredients. Free pouring might look cool but can reduce your drink’s balance.

Special Ingredients to Elevate Your Mixology

Infused Vodkas: Try a vanilla-infused vodka for an extra layer of flavor in your cocktails.

Homemade Syrups Make a coffee-infused simple syrup to enhance the coffee flavor and control sweet

Food Pairing

Sweet Treats for the Sweet Tooth

Chocolate Mousse: The Creamier, the Better

Go for a rich Belgian chocolate mousse. The mousse’s creaminess complements the coffee’s robustness, making each sip and bite an explosion of taste.

Tiramisu: When Italy Meets the Cocktail World

Classic tiramisu already combines coffee and alcohol, so it’s like your Espresso Martini’s soulmate. The creamy mascarpone cheese and the coffee-soaked ladyfingers make it an irresistible pair.

Savory Pairings for the Food Adventurer

Cheese Platter: A Symphony of Flavors

Choose creamy cheeses like brie or camembert. Add some fruit preserves or honey to get a variety of flavor profiles that go incredibly well with your cocktail.

Tapas: Small Bites, Big Flavors

Spanish chorizo or Manchego cheese can create a dynamic food experience. These tapas add a spicy or nutty contrast to the cocktail’s rich coffee and sweet notes.

FAQ

What is the Best Vodka for an Espresso Martini?

When it comes to vodka, you have plenty of options. For a luxurious experience, brands like Grey Goose and Belvedere are highly recommended. If you’re on a budget, Smirnoff and Absolut are solid alternatives.

How Do I Make My Espresso Martini Look Professional?

Visual presentation can make or break a cocktail experience. To give your Espresso Martini a professional look, focus on the layer of foam on top, created during the shaking process. Garnish with a couple of coffee beans to give it that final, classy touch.

How Many Calories are in an Espresso Martini?

An average Espresso Martini has approximately 270–300 calories. The caloric content can vary depending on the brands of vodka and coffee liqueur you use, as well as the addition of syrups or other sweeteners.

Are There Any Allergens in an Espresso Martini?

An Espresso Martini generally contains caffeine and alcohol. It’s gluten-free unless you use vodka that’s derived from wheat. Always check the labels on each ingredient if you have specific allergies or sensitivities.

What is the Cost of Making an Espresso Martini at Home?

The cost of making this cocktail largely depends on the quality of the ingredients you use. Premium brands can push the cost up to $8–$10 per cocktail, while budget-friendly alternatives can keep it under $5.

What is the Alcohol Content (ABV) in an Espresso Martini?

The alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage of an Espresso Martini generally ranges between 22-25%, depending on the brands of vodka and coffee liqueur you use. Always remember to drink responsibly!

Yes, you can still create an Espresso Martini without a cocktail shaker. Use a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid or even two glasses that fit snugly. However, a cocktail shaker is recommended for achieving the best foam and texture.

What are Some Food Pairings for an Espresso Martini?

An Espresso Martini pairs wonderfully with desserts like tiramisu, chocolate fondue, or even a classic cheese platter. For a savory twist, try it with salted nuts or charcuterie. The strong coffee and vodka flavors complement a wide range of foods.

Can I Use Cold Brew Instead of Espresso?

Yes, you can substitute cold brew for espresso in your Espresso Martini. However, this will result in a less intense coffee flavor and may require additional sweetener. Cold brew can be a great option if you’re looking for a milder, smoother cocktail.

What are the Best Coffee Liqueurs for an Espresso Martini?

Choosing the right coffee liqueur can make a huge difference. Premium options include Patrón XO Café and Mr. Black. Budget-friendly choices like Kahlúa and Tia Maria also work well, offering a sweeter profile.

Can I Make a Non-Alcoholic Version of an Espresso Martini?

Absolutely! To make a non-alcoholic Espresso Martini, replace the vodka with a vodka-flavored non-alcoholic spirit like Seedlip. Substitute the coffee liqueur with a coffee-flavored syrup or make your own coffee-infused simple syrup for a unique twist.