This martini is a classic coffee cocktail that’s perfect for dessert, brunch, or really any occasion! You can use espresso or espresso powder to make this easy espresso martini.
Topping it with coffee beans works as a simple garnish and adds just the right touch of style to make the drink stand out.
Making cocktails at home does NOT have to be intimidating. At all. This one is super delicious and super easy, and it only calls for three ingredients! An espresso martini is a great to serve to guests just before or after dinner.
This martini grew popular in the 1980s, and it’s easy to see why! Combining the rich, strong coffee flavor with alcohol makes for a delicious drink.
Looking For More Espresso-Flavored Recipes?
Before making your espresso martini, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, you will want to use espresso instead of regular or instant coffee. It’s important for the flavor profile.
You can use espresso powder instead if you need to. Next, it’s important to let the espresso chill completely before adding it to the ice and alcohol so that it does not melt the ice.
The foam is an important part of this cocktail, both for flavor and presentation. It’s kind of like when you order a latte, the more foam the better!
Espresso Martini Ingredients:
- 2 shots (about 1.5 ounces each) espresso (do not use regular coffee, but you can use espresso powder if more convenient. If you’re absolutely having to brew coffee, make it as strong as possible.)
- 2 ounces vodka (any kind is fine)
- 3 ounces Kahlua
- 2-3 coffee beans for garnish
How to Make an Espresso Martini
- Make your espresso and allow to chill (otherwise, it will melt your ice). If you’re in a hurry, you can put it in the fridge.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in the espresso, vodka and Kahlua.
- Shake until chilled. This will also create your froth.
- Pour into two chilled glasses.
- Garnish with a few coffee beans.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of espresso do you use?
At home, I use my DeLonghi Espresso Maker to make espresso. Another option is to use espresso powder. It is most often used in baking to enhance the flavor of chocolate. But in a pinch, you could make homemade espresso, too.
How long does it take to make an espresso martini?
If you have your espresso made ahead of time, you can make this drink in under 5 minutes.
Why do you need to let the espresso chill?
When you combine ingredients in your cocktail shaker, you’ll want the ice to combine with the espresso to create a foam instead of the hot espresso melting it.
To chill your glasses, simply place them in the freezer for 5-6 minutes before you need them.
Not only is this drink delicious, but it can be a great conversation starter. I know I’m a little bit more talkative when I have a little jolt of caffeine in my system. 🙂
Other Martinis To Try:
- Easy At-Home Chocolate Martini
- Spiced Pumpkin Pie Martini
- Lemon Drop Martini (Plus Mocktail Version!)
Guests will be super impressed by the chilled glasses and coffee bean garnish. It’s the little things, right? Happy cocktail making! xo. Emma
Love this cocktail? Check out The Best Martini Recipes and 40 Fun Cocktails to Make at Home.
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Ingredients
- 2 shots espresso (about 1.5 ounces each )
- 2 ounces vodka
- 3 ounces Kahlua
- 3 coffee beans (for garnish)
Equipment
- 1 espresso machine optional, but recommended
Instructions
- Make your espresso and allow it to chill completely.
- To chill your glasses, simply place them in the freezer a few minutes (5-6) before you need them.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in the espresso, vodka and Kahlua.
- Shake until chilled. Pour into two chilled glasses.
- Garnish with a few coffee beans and serve.
Please clarify the amount of espresso powder to use and any revision to the recipe for this substitution. Thx!
Perfect recipe. I love espresso martinis!
Such a delicious little pick-me-up cocktail!
I love espresso martinis! The first night I got one I stayed up until 3 in the morning on Pinterest. It is very much a classy (and much tastier) Red Bull/Vodka!
I love this! Definitely trying this recipe, was actually thinking of having a dinner party and wanted something nice to serve.
Mmm, this looks delicious! Perfect for fall.
Okay this sounds too good not to try. Thank you for sharing!
xx
youngmildandfree.com
Delicious!
Lulu xx
http://luluslittlewonderland.blogspot.com
How perfect! I love your martini recipes, so keep them coming! This looks so fun. I’ve only chilled beer glasses, so chilling martini glasses will be great to try! 🙂
http://sometimesgracefully.com
This looks DELICIOUS!
Sounds perfect, will have to get some Kahlua and give this a try 🙂
Rosie x | Every Word Handwritten
I make a similar cocktail at my bar, but like to put the espresso in the freezer for a minute before shaking it on ice, just so it doesn’t immediately dilute the drink heavily 🙂 soooo yummy!
I love coffee and this cocktail sounds like a great combo!
This weekend I visited a friend of mine in Dublin and she spent the whole weekend drinking Espresso Martinis! Well, we stopped for lunch and we did some sightseeing too, but yes, lots of cocktails were involved 😉
Anyway! This recipe comes in really handy because she is coming to visit soon, so I’ll be perparing her favourite drink!!
Thanks girls!
xx,
E.
www.theslowpace.com
As a coffee lover… this is straight to the top of my list of ‘things to try!’. Can’t wait! xo Jess
Your Daily Break
what a classy cocktail! i have never had coffee and alcohol together (believe it or not!) but this is a must-try!
xx
I love all of your recipes! : )
Lovely Idea
Those look so yummy, I will have to make them for my hubby, he is an espresso man :). Thanks!
Rachael xx.
these are amazing! although don’t have one too late or you’ll be buzzing all night! and shush don’t tell the kids i think these are stronger than all the drugs they do nowadays!
Barnicles
You always whip up the loveliest cocktails on here! I’d love to try this out at home some day 🙂