Marmalade Espresso Tonic Recipe
espresso, orange marmalade, tonic, served iced
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Ingredients
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For the cocktail
Garnish
Method
Prepare espresso and marmalade
Brew espresso
Pull a double shot of espresso (about 2 oz). If you don't have an espresso machine, brew a very strong 2 oz coffee using an AeroPress or Moka pot. Allow espresso to rest for 20–30 seconds so surface crema begins to settle but stays warm.
While the espresso is resting, measure 1 tablespoon orange marmalade into a small mixing cup or heatproof jar. If the marmalade is very thick or cold, warm it slightly (5–10 seconds) in the microwave to loosen, or stir vigorously to make it smooth.
Optional: If you prefer a slightly sweeter, silkier drink, dissolve 1/2 teaspoon simple syrup into the marmalade before adding espresso.
Pour the warm espresso over the marmalade. Stir briskly for 10–15 seconds until the marmalade is thoroughly incorporated and you have a glossy, slightly frothy marmalade-espresso mixture. This step mellows the marmalade's texture and distributes oils evenly.
Assemble the drink
Fill a tall glass (12–16 oz) or rocks glass with about 1 cup of fresh ice cubes, leaving room at the top for tonic and espresso.
Pour 4 oz cold tonic water over the ice. Pour slowly down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.
Carefully pour the marmalade-espresso mixture over the tonic and ice. Pouring over the back of a spoon will help create a layered effect if desired. The espresso will mingle with the tonic, producing a slightly effervescent, bitter-sweet profile.
Gently stir once or twice with a bar spoon to incorporate — not vigorously, to keep some effervescence. Taste and adjust sweetness: if you want it sweeter, add up to 1/2 teaspoon simple syrup and stir gently.
Garnish and serve
Express the oils of an orange peel over the top of the drink by holding the peel skin-side down over the glass and giving it a quick squeeze so the oils spray onto the surface. Drop the peel or a thin orange wheel into the drink.
Optionally float 2–3 coffee beans on top for aroma and presentation.
Serve immediately with a straw or stirrer so the guest can remix as desired.