An espresso martini is a drink unlike any other, combining rich espresso with coffee liqueur and vodka. Whether you’re looking for a slight caffeine boost or simply tired of traditional cocktails, it might be time to give an espresso martini a chance. Although an espresso martini may sound fancy, it’s quite simple to make at home.
This coffee-inspired cocktail is perfect for enjoying after a long day of work, while hosting a party, or even as you explore a new way of gambling from your couch, which is, of course, all about cryptocurrencies. The versatility of an espresso martini is certainly part of the appeal. Plus, it’s easy to make with limited ingredients. If you always order an espresso martini at your favorite restaurant, you’re in luck. This drink can easily be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home too!
Below, get prepared by reviewing the ingredients and supplies you’ll need to make this delicious drink. You’re sure to be surprised at just how easy it can be to make this drink in minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a basic espresso martini at home, you’ll need:
- 2 Ounces of Vodka
- ½ Ounce of Coffee Liqueur (any brand will do)
- 1 Ounce of Freshly Brewed Espresso
- ½ Ounce of Simple Syrup
- Optional Coffee Beans for garnish
You can utilize any type of espresso to make an espresso martini. If you prefer a lighter espresso drink, try brewing your drink with blonde espresso. The type of espresso you use will also impact the final caffeine content of your drink.
Supplies You’ll Need
As you can see, only 4 ingredients are required to make a delicious espresso martini at home! Below are the supplies you’ll need to make this drink.
- Shaker to make the drink in
- Ice
- Chilled cocktail glass
- Espresso machine
Don’t have an espresso machine? Don’t worry! You can substitute cold brew concentrate if you cannot access freshly brewed espresso for this drink. Cold brew concentrate can be purchased pre-made from your local grocery store or you can make it at home. If making it at home, you’ll need to prepare the cold brew concentrate in advance, so it is ready to make your espresso martini. To make cold brew concentrate, all you’ll need is cold water and coarsely ground coffee beans!
Steps to Make Espresso Martini
Now that you’ve got all of your ingredients and supplies, it’s time to make your espresso martini. Follow these three easy steps:
- Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup to your shaker. Measure out the appropriate amounts as listed in the ingredients list above. Fill your shaker with ice and shake well, until the mixture is fully chilled.
- Next, strain your mixture into a chilled cocktail.
- If desired, garnish the top with three coffee beans. (Perfect for parties! Your guests will think your drink is fancier than it really is. Not to mention, it makes for a great Instagram photo).
That’s it! In just three simple steps, you now have a delicious espresso martini.
Modifications to Your Espresso Martini
Prefer a slightly less espresso martini? This drink recipe can easily be adjusted to meet your individual taste preferences. Some people find this drink to be sweeter, as it combines coffee liqueur and simple syrup. You can omit the simple syrup for a lighter drink or use less than the indicated ½ ounce. If you prefer a unique flavor to your espresso martini, you can also try adding a flavor shot such as vanilla or hazelnut to your espresso martini.
Another modification you can make to your espresso martini is to add bailey’s Irish cream. If you prefer a creamy coffee drink, this can make the drink even better! If you love the chocolate flavor, you can also try using chocolate-flavored vodka in your martini instead of traditional plain vodka. This will add a subtle chocolate taste to your drink. Try playing around with these modifications until you find a version of the espresso martini you love!
History of the Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini dates to the 1980s, created to need a caffeine boost. At the time, the drink was a combination of sugar, vodka, fresh espresso, and sugar combined into a drink. Thus, this became the origin of the espresso martini we know today. Traditionally, this drink is garnished with three coffee beans. Many people think this is simply for show, however, it has meaning. The trademark coffee garnish is said to represent health, wealth, and happiness.
Try An Espresso Martini Today
Feeling inspired to try this rich and smooth coffee cocktail? Once you try it, it will soon become a favorite cocktail to make at home. If you’re looking to mix things up, check out these other creative drink recipes that you can make at home too.
