Seasonal Espresso Martini Recipe

Choose a seasonal flavor: autumn — use 2 tbsp maple syrup or 2 tbsp crushed cinnamon stick + 1 tsp vanilla; winter — use 2 tbsp crushed cranberries + 1 tsp orange zest; spring — use 2 tbsp elderflower or 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves; summer — use 2 tbsp muddled strawberry or 2 tbsp basil. Adjust choice to taste.

Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a gentle simmer (about 3–4 minutes).

Add the chosen seasonal flavoring to the simmering syrup. If using fresh herbs or fruit, lightly bruise them first to release oils. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes to infuse. Do not vigorously boil.

Remove from heat. If using solids (herbs, zest, fruit), let steep off heat for 10–15 minutes for stronger flavor.

Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer into a clean container. Stir in fresh citrus juice if using to brighten the flavor. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Syrup will keep up to 2 weeks refrigerated.

Brew and cool espresso

Brew a shot (about 1 oz) of fresh espresso. Allow it to sit briefly until it is warm-to-cool (ideally under 100°F / 38°C). Using very hot espresso will melt too much ice and dilute the cocktail.

Prepare shaker

Fill a cocktail shaker about two-thirds full with ice (approximately 6 ice cubes).

Combine ingredients

Add 2 oz Blue Ice Espresso Vodka, 1 oz cooled espresso, 0.5 oz coffee liqueur, 0.5 oz seasonal syrup, and 0.25 oz cold water into the shaker. The small amount of water helps open up the espresso and balance sweetness.

Dry shake (optional)

For a richer, foamier crema, first shake the ingredients vigorously without ice for 8–10 seconds (dry shake).

Wet shake

Add ice (if not already added) and shake vigorously for 12–18 seconds until the shaker is well chilled and the exterior frosts. This creates a silky texture and good crema.

Fine strain

Double-strain the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled coupe or martini glass to remove ice shards and produce a glossy surface.

Garnish

Garnish with 3 whole coffee beans placed on the crema. If desired, add a seasonal microherb sprig or edible flower and/or a citrus twist if your syrup includes citrus zest. Serve immediately.