Espresso Martini Recipe
The Legend: cold, frothy caffeinated delight: fresh espresso, premium coffee liqueur, and vodka.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Cocktail
Equipment
Method
Cocktail
Chill glass
Place martini or coupe glass(es) in the freezer for at least 5–10 minutes or fill with ice water while you prepare the cocktail to ensure the drink stays cold longer.
Brew and cool espresso
If you don’t already have cooled espresso, brew a 1 oz shot of espresso and let it rest 1–2 minutes to drop slightly in temperature. Alternatively use 1 oz of strong cold brew concentrate chilled. Freshly brewed (but not piping hot) espresso gives best crema for foam.
Measure ingredients
Using a jigger, measure 1.5 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz cooled espresso, and 0.25 oz simple syrup (omit or reduce if you prefer less sweetness).
Add to shaker
Fill the cocktail shaker about two-thirds full with fresh ice cubes. Pour in the vodka, coffee liqueur, cooled espresso, and simple syrup.
Dry shake (important for froth)
Close the shaker and shake vigorously WITHOUT ice for 8–12 seconds to emulsify the espresso and build initial foam. This step improves crema and mouthfeel.
Wet shake
Open the shaker, add fresh ice, and shake again very hard for 12–20 seconds. The combination of the dry and wet shake creates a thick, glossy foam on top of the cocktail and chills the drink properly.
Strain and serve
Remove ice from the chilled glass (or take glass from freezer). Double-strain the cocktail into the glass using the shaker’s strainer and a fine mesh strainer if available to ensure a smooth surface and fine foam. Aim for a steady pour to keep the foam intact.
Garnish
Carefully place three espresso beans on top of the foam in a triangle or line for the classic presentation. Optionally grate a tiny pinch of coffee powder or cocoa on top.
Serve
Serve immediately while the foam is glossy and the drink is very cold. Sip to enjoy the contrast of chilled spirit and warm coffee aroma.
Equipment notes
If you don’t have an espresso machine, use a strong cold brew or Moka pot espresso and ensure it’s chilled. A fine strainer improves texture. Use a metal shaker for best chilling. Adjust simple syrup to taste; many prefer the drink without added sugar because the coffee liqueur provides sweetness.