The Espresso Martini is a classic coffee based cocktail that blends the intensity of espresso with the smoothness of vodka and the subtle sweetness of the coffee liqueur like Kahlua.
In terms of alcohol, the traditional recipe typically includes approximately two ounces of vodka (40% alcohol) and half an ounce of Kahlúa (20% alcohol).
The alcohol content in an espresso martini is similar to that of a generous serving of wine and is generally lower than other Martini cocktails.
How to make Espresso Martini
What are The Ingredients Needed for Espresso Martini Recipe?
Here’s a list of the main ingredients to make your own best Espresso Martini at home!
1. Espresso Coffee
A good Espresso Martini starts with a freshly brewed espresso shot. Typically, you’d use a single 1 oz shot of espresso when making an Espresso Martini.
Traditionally, the Espresso Martini cocktail is prepared with medium to dark roasted beans. These strong roasts have richer, bolder flavors that pair well with the intensity of the cocktail.
If you don’t have an Espresso machine you can use Cold Brew Concentrate in the Espresso Martini Cocktail. While it will not be as strong and rich as espresso but will still make a good cocktail!
2. Vodka
A smooth, premium vodka is a key component of Espresso Martini. Some popular vodka brands that are commonly used in Espresso Martinis include Absolut, Grey Goose, Ketel One, Stolichnaya (Stoli), and Belvedere.
3. Coffee Liqueur
Traditionally, Coffee liqueurs, such as Kahlúa or Tia Maria, are used in Espresso Martini which adds a touch of sweetness and complements the flavors of coffee.
The Coffee Liqueurs are made with a blend of rum, coffee beans, and vanilla which gives smooth and sweet flavors to the Martini drink.
4. Simple Syrup
Simple Syrup helps to balance the bitterness of the coffee and adds a touch of sweetness.
You can buy simple syrup from grocery stores or make it at home by dissolving equal parts of sugar and water over low heat until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step-by-Step Recipe:
Here’s the step-by-step guide to the original Espresso Martini Recipe:
1. Prepare Espresso: Start by brewing a shot of espresso using freshly ground coffee beans. Use 7-9 grams of coffee grounds for a 1 oz shot of Espresso. Allow the espresso to cool to room temperature. You can put Espresso in a refrigerator for 20 minutes for quick cooling.
2. Gather ingredients: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes, cooled Espresso shot (30 mL), Vodka (60 mL), coffee liqueur (30 mL), and simple syrup (15 mL).
3. Shake the mixture: Securely close the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-30 seconds. This will blend the flavors and create a frothy texture.
4. Add to Cocktail glass: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass, to remove any ice chips or grounds.
5. Garnish: For an added touch of elegance, garnish with a few coffee beans or a dusting of cocoa powder.
Check out a list of 30 different types of Espresso drinks
Some Tips to Make a Better Espresso Martini
Here are some expert tips to enhance your Espresso Martini experience
1. How to make Espresso Martini Creamy?
Try using Creme de Cacao in an Espresso Martini as a liqueur to add a chocolatey twist. Creme de Cacao is a chocolate liqueur made with cocoa and vanilla beans that adds a creamy twist to the Espresso Martini.
As a Chocolate lover, I always prefer Creme de Cacao as it adds sweetness and a pronounced chocolate note to the Espresso Martini.
2. How to Make Espresso Martini Frothy?
Foam adds an aesthetically pleasing element and contributes to the overall texture and mouthfeel of the cocktail. Here’s a tip to make the perfect foam:
First, Shake all cocktail ingredients vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds without adding ice. Then, add ice to the shaker and shake again for 15 to 20 seconds to chill. This will incorporate air into the mixture and create a rich foam.
3. Adjust the Ratios to your taste
Find the perfect balance for your palate by adjusting the proportions of vodka, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup. Increase or decrease the sweetness or strength of the drink based on your personal preferences.
While the traditional recipe calls for a single shot of Espresso (1 oz), I like to prepare it with a double shot of Espresso (2 oz).
4. Allow the Espresso to Cool
Prepare your espresso ahead of time and allow it to cool naturally. If you want to cool it quickly pour it into a wide bowl for 5-10 minutes and then place it in the freezer for a few minutes.
Using Hot Espresso shots is never recommended for the Recipe as:
- It can cause the ice to melt rapidly and dilute the drink.
- It would raise the temperature of the drink and will not provide the desired cooling effect expected from Cocktails.
5. Garnish the Drink
Here are a few ideas to Garnish Espresso Martini
- Traditionally, Espresso Martinis are garnished with three coffee beans placed on top of the foam.
- You can Sprinkle a pinch of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top of the foam to add a decorative element and rich chocolaty aroma to the drink.
- You can add a twist of citrus lemon peel, as a garnish. This provides a citrusy fragrance that can complement the flavors of the drink.
What is the History of Espresso Martini?
In the world of cocktails, the Espresso Martini has a relatively brief history, tracing back to the early 1980s when London bartender Dick Bradsel is credited with its invention.
As the legend goes, Dick was at the Soho Brasserie when a famous model strolled into the bar and requested a drink that would “wake her up.” To impress the Model, Dick created this unique cocktail by combining coffee and vodka flavors.
The original recipe included vodka, simple sugar syrup, two types of coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso, resulting in a drink that offered both a caffeine boost and a delightful alcoholic kick.
Dick chose to name it the Espresso Martini, in tribute to the classic martini glass in which it was served. Later, during his tenure at the Pharmacy Bar in Notting Hill, Dick decided to rebrand the cocktail as the Pharmaceutical Stimulant in 1998.
Check out Espresso Corretto another Alcoholic Espresso drink
How does Espresso Martini Taste?
An Espresso Martini has a rich and a little intoxicating flavor profile. The intense espresso provides a strong coffee taste, while the vodka adds a subtle warmth. The coffee liqueur adds sweetness and a hint of bitterness, resulting in a well-balanced and smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
The Espresso Martini is a remarkable fusion of two beloved worlds: coffee and alcohol. Its origins, rooted in the creativity of a skilled bartender, have paved the way for a timeless classic.
With the tips, recipes, and knowledge you’ve gained, you have all the tools to create a remarkable cocktail that will leave a lasting impression on your palate and your guests.
Check out other Delicious Espresso Drinks:
FAQs
Are espresso martinis healthy?
Espresso martinis, like any alcoholic beverage, should be consumed in moderation.
The coffee component of the drink may contain some antioxidants and caffeine, but it isn’t a very healthy drink and shouldn’t be consumed on a regular basis.
Do espresso martinis get you drunk?
You can become a little intoxicated by Espresso Martinis, just as you can with any other alcoholic cocktails.
The combination of vodka and espresso provides a potent mix and the level of intoxication experienced depends on several factors, including the individual’s tolerance to alcohol.
how much alcohol is in espresso martini?
A standard recipe for an Espresso Martini usually includes around 2 ounces (45-60 ml) of vodka and 1 ounce of (30 mL) Coffee liqueur.
A typical vodka has 40% alcohol by volume, while a coffee liqueur has 15-25% alcohol by volume.
Do Espresso Martinis have a lot of caffeine?
Yes, espresso martinis can contain a lot of caffeine since they are made with espresso shots. A single shot of espresso has about 60-72 mg of caffeine. A double-shot espresso martini would have around 120-133 mg of caffeine. The coffee liqueur also contributes additional caffeine.
can espresso martini be made with gin?
Yes, an espresso martini can be made with gin. However, the gin version would be quite different from the classic recipe. Vodka provides a neutral base that allows the coffee flavors to shine, while gin adds its own botanical and tea-like notes. The Gin Espresso Martini has a totally different taste compared to the Classic Espresso Martini. Some people love it, while others can’t stand it.
Espresso Martini Recipe
Equipment
- Espresso machine
- Cocktail Shaker
Ingredients
- 1 oz Single Espresso Shot
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1/2 oz Coffee Liqueur (Kahula)
- 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
- Ice Cubes
Instructions
- Begin by brewing a shot of espresso using freshly ground coffee beans. Allow the espresso to cool to room temperature.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes, cooled Espresso shot (30 mL), Vodka (60 mL), coffee liqueur (30 mL), and simple syrup (15 mL).
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-30 seconds. This will blend the flavors and create a frothy texture.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a few coffee beans or a dusting of cocoa powder.
