How to Make an Espresso Martini
A true espresso martini recipe has only three ingredients. It’s simple, delicious and makes for a perfect after dinner treat or an afternoon pick me up. Here is how to make this classic cocktail like a pro at home.
What will you need for this espresso martini recipe?
The beautiful thing about espresso martinis is their simplicity. You’ll only need three simple ingredients to put together this bold espresso martini.
- Vodka
- Coffee liqueur (Kahlúa remains a favorite, or try Mr. Black cold brew liqueur if you want more caffeine from cold brew concentrate)
- A shot of espresso, or high-quality cold brew coffee concentrate for a twist
Why You’ll Love This Coffee-Based Cocktail Recipe
Whether you’re elevating a low-key Monday or hosting a festive gathering, the espresso martini remains a versatile crowd-pleaser. This dessert cocktail performs double duty as both sophisticated nightcap and after-dinner treat. The bold interplay of vodka, coffee liqueur, and either hot espresso or cold brew coffee concentrate layers complexity in every sip. The hallmark frothy head anchors the experience—especially when topped with a trio of glossy espresso beans or a whisper of chocolate shavings. If you’re feeling adventurous, scattering edible gold dust on that creamy surface transforms the familiar cocktail into a statement-worthy sip. Meanwhile, small touches like chilling your martini glass or double-straining elevate both presentation and mouthfeel. And for coffee lovers, letting vodka sit with freshly cracked espresso beans in advance means the flavors marry gently, delivering a nuanced, aromatic spin on a classic cocktail. Whether you reach for freshly pulled shot of espresso or a smooth cold brew concentrate, the result is a chic and flavorful espresso martini—with options to customize every step.
How to Make an Espresso Martini Cocktail
This super simple and fun cocktail is super easy to make at home. It’s a terrific afternoon pick me up or a happy hour cocktail as well as a perfect after dinner drink. The caffeine gives you a boost of energy and can aid in digestion. A double win in my book.
To make this delicious coffee cocktail you only need vodka, a coffee liqueur and espresso.
- Brew a fresh espresso, or opt for a rich cold brew concentrate if you prefer
- Let it cool slightly (hot espresso can flatten the foam)
- In a shaker with ice, combine the espresso/cold brew, vodka, and liqueur
- Shake vigorously until the drink is frothy—you’re aiming for that signature frothy espresso martini top
- Strain into a martini glass (a coup or classic martini glass works beautifully)
Additional Notes & Tips
Can you make an espresso martini without an espresso machine?
Can I use normal coffee for Espresso Martini, the quick answer is no. To make this a true recipe cocktail you should definitely use espresso made from an espresso machine.
However, if you do not have an espresso machine, you can also use very strong coffee for this drink.
Don’t have an espresso machine?
Try this: I love our Ninja coffee machine has a specialty coffee setting to make cappuccinos and lattes, this setting is perfect to also make an espresso style coffee without an espresso machine.
What is the best coffee liqueur for Espresso Martini?
- Kahlua is the most popular and best -known coffee liqueur and its typically used for alcoholic coffee drinks.
- However, Mr. Black is a cold brew liqueur distilled in Australia that is currently gaining a lot attention.
- You can also try a non-alchoholic option like this coffee liqueur alternative.
- It has significantly more caffeine than Kahlua and might be perfect for this cocktail or other coffee cocktails like a White Russian.
How Can You Make an Espresso Martini Sweet?
If you need a little more sweetness in your cocktail, add a teaspoon of sugar into the espresso before mixing your drink.
You can also add sugar free simple syrup, I actually really like adding a splash of vanilla simple sirup.
- No espresso machine? Use a high-quality cold brew coffee concentrate to mimic rich flavors.
- For sweetness, stir in a little sugar or a splash of vanilla simple syrup while the espresso is still warm.
- Make sure your espresso is freshly brewed for a sharp, aromatic edge.
Garnish For Espresso Martini
Your garnish can elevate both the look and nuance of your drink. The classic way to garnish an espresso martini has historically always been with three espresso beans. However, you can add so many fun elements to this cocktail. Here are some ideas for how to garnish an espresso martini cocktail:
- A classic trio of espresso beans on top—sleek, elegant, and aromatic
- A light dusting of cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate
- Thin chocolate shavings or a small curl for visual drama
- Edible gold or silver dust for a glamorous twist
- A twist of orange zest to bring brightness that complements the coffee flavors
More Tips for How to Make an Espresso Martini at Home
- Upgrade your ice: Using large, slow-melting ice cubes in the shaker preserves flavor balance and keeps dilution minimal.
- Chill your glass: Pre-chilling your martini glass enhances the finesse of the drink and keeps that frothy head intact longer.
- Customize coffee flavors: Swap in a flavored coffee liqueur (think salted caramel or vanilla) to tailor the drink to your dessert pairing.
- Try espresso or coffee infusion: Infuse vodka with coffee beans for a week ahead—it deepens complexity for an even richer sip in your classic espresso martini.
Ingredients
Method
- Brew the Espresso. You can use any espresso machine or even brew a super strong coffee in your coffee machine. Typically I use our Ninja coffee system specialty setting.
- Let it cool. I like to let the coffee cool a bit before making this drink.
- Shake It Up. Place the espresso, vodka, and Kahlua or your preferred coffee liqueur in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Strain + Serve. Strain the espresso martini into a cocktail glass. I love my coup glass for martinis lately. Garnish with 3 coffee beans or a dusting of ground coffee—but honestly, I like it without a garnish.
Other Vodka Based Cocktail Recipes You May Like
- Pear Vodka and Elderflower Spritz
- Pear Vodka Cosmopolitan
- Vodka Thyme Lemonade
- A Perfect Fall Cocktail: A Spicy Pear Martini