Espresso martini delights me with its iconic mix of coffee and vodka. I love its balance of sweet and bitter notes. This drink always adds elegance to my celebrations.
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Espresso martini recipe
The espresso martini, or vodka espresso, is a popular cold cocktail. This drink combines espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur. It is served in a cocktail glass and garnished with three coffee beans. These coffee beans represent health, wealth, and happiness.
The martini was created by Dick Bradsell in London during the 1980s. A model requested a drink to “wake her up.” This inspired Bradsell to combine coffee flavors with vodka. The cocktail has since become a staple in bars worldwide. It is often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink or at social gatherings.
Here is how to make the espresso martini:
Espresso Martini
Ingredients
- 40 ml (1.3 oz) vodka
- 30 ml (1 oz) freshly brewed espresso, cooled
- 20 ml (0.7 oz) coffee liqueur such as Kahlúa
- 5 ml (1 tsp) sugarcane syrup or simple syrup
- Ice cubes
- 3 coffee beans for garnish Optional
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add the vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugarcane syrup to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds to create a frothy texture.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with 3 coffee beans arranged in a triangular pattern.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition
How to pair
Espresso martini complements a wide range of foods. Here are some food pairings that work well with this rich and flavorful drink:
- Sweet Treats
- Tiramisu echoes the martini’s taste with coffee-flavored layers.
- Chocolate Brownies balance the espresso’s bittersweetness with their richness.
- Nutty Biscotti contrasts nicely with the cocktail’s strong flavors.
- Chocolate Mousse complements the espresso martini with its rich texture.
- Cheesecake pairs well with the cocktail’s robust flavor profile.
- White Chocolate and Pineapple Cake counters the espresso’s bitterness with sweetness.
- Savory Options
- The Meat and Cheese Board balances the cocktail’s flavors with various meats and cheeses.
- Antipasto Misto enhances the martini’s bold notes with artichokes and marinated vegetables.
- Mini Panini offers a refreshing contrast with prosciutto and mozzarella sandwiches.
- Caprese Salad provides a tangy balance with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Pizza complements the espresso martini with savory flavors.
- French Fries pair surprisingly well with the cocktail’s sweetness.
- Italian Delights
- Homemade Lasagna matches the cocktail’s coffee notes with creamy layers.
- Cheese Ravioli allows the martini’s flavors to shine without overpowering them.
- Eggplant Parmigiano complements the martini with its crispy exterior.
Variations
Here are some notable variations of the coffee martini. They showcase different flavor profiles and ingredients.
- Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini uses orange vodka and chocolate liqueur. It combines citrus with chocolate flavors.
- Black Espresso uses spiced rum for a unique twist. It uses sherry and Kuromitsu syrup.
- Hot Cross Bun Martini adds festive spices. It uses vanilla vodka, calvados, and cinnamon syrup.
- Candy Cane Martini introduces peppermint flavors. It is perfect for holidays.
- Aperitivo Espresso mixes coffee with tonic water and vodka. It is refreshing for the daytime.
- Chili Chocolate Espresso Martini uses chili-infused chocolate syrup. It adds a spicy kick.
- Blood Orange and Coconut Espresso Martini povides a tropical twist. These ingredients brighten the original recipe.
- Alternative Spirits
- Irish cream liqueur offers a creamy texture. It replaces coffee liqueur.
- Spiced rum enhances sweetness. It adds cinnamon and vanilla flavors.
- Coconut rum offers a refreshing taste.
