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

How to 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 classic 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. Check out my Vodka Guide for the bottles I recommend.

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.

Tips for Making the Best Espresso Martini

• You’ve had a bad cup of coffee. And you’ve had a mind-blowing cup of coffee. The difference is often due to the quality of the beans you start with. The same is true for an espresso martini. The secret to a good espresso martini is having good, freshly pulled espresso and high-quality coffee liqueur.
• Make sure to fully cool your espresso before adding to the shaker.
• Keep shaking your espresso martini vigorously until the shaker becomes frosty on the outside. That’s when you know it’s ready.
• Making your own simple syrup really is super easy and totally worth it. Plus, it’s so much cheaper than buying a bottle at the store.
• Serve your espresso martini in a traditional martini coupe. It makes a difference in how the foam forms at the top when poured into a glass with a narrow base and wide lip. Be sure to chill your coupe in the freezer first!

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.
• Need a special Holiday Cocktail? Add peppermint (syrup or extract) for a Peppermint Espresso Martini or add gingerbread syrup and almond liqueur for a Gingerbread Espresso Martini

How to 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 martinis until frothy before straining into the chilled coupe glasses.

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 to making a good non-alcoholic espresso martini 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.

How to Make Coffee Syrup

Combine 1 cup sugar + 1 cup water + 3 tbsp ground coffee in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir ocassionally until it comes to a boil and the sugar is fully dissolved. Simmer for another 10 minutes like you’re making really really strong coffee. Remove from the heat and cool completely. Strain syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a glass jar and store in the refrigerator. Use 3/4 oz. in your Non-alcoholic Espresso Martini.