Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is a tried-and-true classic cocktail and I love her so much. As much as I love sipping one when I’m out for happy hour or brunch, Espresso Martinis bring that same indulgent feeling right into your own home. You can easily mix up a classic Espresso Martini when you’re hosting or just need a little pick-me-up because all you need is four basic ingredients. Let’s shake things up!

Jump to…

• Watch Video
• How to Make It
• Shop The Recipe
• Ingredients
• Batch It
• Seasonal Variations
• Non-alcoholic

Watch Me Mix It

Let’s Make an Espresso Martini

1. First, make your shot of espresso. A fresh brew will make the best espresso martini. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
3. Add ice and shake for at least 20 seconds.
4. Strain all that deliciousness into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with three espresso beans. Cute!

Espresso Martini Ingredients

Vodka

You can usually make a martini with gin or vodka, but I recommend using vodka for the version with espresso. We want coffee to be the hero flavor, so vodka’s neutral flavorlessness makes it the perfect base for our classic espresso martini.

Simple Syrup

Sure, you can buy simple syrup. But making your own at home could not be easier. Just add equal parts sugar and water to a saucepan over medium heat and stir it until sugar dissolves. Let it cool and store your homemade simple syrup for up to 4 weeks in the fridge. It really is that easy.

Coffee Liqueur

The coffee liqueur you choose really makes a difference. Some, like the ever popular Kahlua are on the sweeter side, with more caramel-y vanilla flavors. But my all time favorite, Mr. Blacks, is less sweet and more bitter, made with specially roasted Arabica coffee beans for a more intense coffee flavor.

Espresso

Use your preferred method to make a freshly brewed shot of espresso. This is where that Nespresso machine really comes up big for me. Make sure you let the espresso cool before adding it to the shaker with the other ingredients or the ice will melt too quickly and you’ll be left with a lukewarm ‘tini.

Batch Espresso Martinis

There may be no better way to please (and impress) a crowd than by having a batch of espresso martinis ready when they arrive. To batch espresso martinis, simply multiply the ingredients in the above recipe by the number of people and add them to a blender with ice. Blend the ‘tinis until frothy before straining into the chilled coupe glasses.

Seasonal Espresso Martini Variations

There are so many ways to add different flavors to the classic espresso martini recipe.

• Make it for St. Patrick’s Day: Try the Guinness Espresso Martini
• Go all out with this extra special Cannoli Espresso Martini
• Add pumpkin pie syrup for a Pumpkin Spiced Espresso Martini, the ultimate fall cocktail!
• Add orange liqueur for a chocolate and orange kind of pairing.
• Add peppermint (syrup or extract) for a Peppermint Espresso Martini
• Add gingerbread syrup and almond liqueur for a Gingerbread Espresso Martini

Non-alcoholic Espresso Martini

Can you make an Espresso Martini without alcohol? Absolutely. This Espresso Martini Mocktail is proof that you don’t need liqueurs or fancy alternatives to enjoy a smooth, indulgent take on the classic. The secret lies in a homemade coffee syrup, which perfectly mimics the depth and richness of coffee liqueur. Paired with a double shot of espresso, a splash of vanilla, and a touch of cream, this drink is as satisfying as it is simple to make.