Espresso Martini Recipe

Prepare

Pull a fresh shot of espresso (about 1 oz). While hot, measure it out; this helps create crema and better emulsification in the shake.

Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice (about 1 cup). Add 2 oz vodka, 1 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz hot espresso, and 0.5 oz simple syrup.

Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for 15–25 seconds. The goal is vigorous agitation to chill, dilute slightly, and create a creamy, foamy top from the espresso crema.

Double-strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass using both a cocktail strainer and a fine mesh strainer to remove ice shards and produce a smooth texture.

Garnish with 3 coffee beans placed on the foam. Serve immediately.

Follow the Classic Espresso Martini recipe but add 0.75 oz heavy cream (or half-and-half) to the shaker along with the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup.

Shake very hard for 20–30 seconds to emulsify the cream and create a silky, velvety foam. Double-strain into a chilled glass and garnish with 3 coffee beans.

If using homemade lavender syrup, prepare it first (see optional recipe) and let cool. Pull a fresh 1 oz espresso shot.

Fill a shaker with ice. Add 2 oz vodka, 0.5 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz espresso, 0.5 oz lavender syrup, and 0.5 oz oat milk.

Shake vigorously for 15–25 seconds to chill and incorporate the oat milk without over-diluting. Oat milk can separate if shaken too long at warm temperatures, so ensure sufficient ice and quick shaking.

Double-strain into a chilled coupe. Garnish with a small lavender sprig or a few dried lavender buds (use sparingly). Serve immediately.

Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender in a small saucepan.

Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes to infuse lavender flavor, then remove from heat and steep for 15–20 minutes, depending on desired intensity.

Strain out the lavender, let the syrup cool, then transfer to a sealed bottle. Refrigerate up to 2 weeks.