The espresso martini is a modern classic cocktail that blends coffee and vodka into a rich, creamy drink.

You only need four ingredients: vodka, coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, and simple syrup.

London bartender Dick Bradsell created the drink in 1983 for a customer who wanted something to wake her up.

The mix of coffee and alcohol quickly became popular and spread worldwide.

This drink works well for both happy hour and after-dinner sipping.

Fresh espresso adds bold flavor, while coffee liqueur brings sweetness.

A good shake creates the drink’s signature foamy top that coffee fans enjoy.

Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe

A classic espresso martini blends freshly brewed espresso with vodka and coffee liqueur for a rich cocktail.The drink features a foamy top and balances coffee and alcohol flavors.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Cocktail shaker
Fine-mesh strainer
Martini glass
Jigger or measuring tool
Coffee maker or espresso machine
Ice

Ingredients

1.5 oz 45ml premium vodka
1 oz 30ml fresh espresso, cooled
1 oz 30ml coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)

0.5 oz 15ml simple syrup
3 coffee beans for garnish
Ice cubes for shaking

Instructions

Brew espresso and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Fill the cocktail shaker with ice.
Pour vodka, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup into the shaker.

Shake very vigorously for 20 seconds to create foam.
Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
Place three coffee beans on top as garnish.

Notes

Shake the drink strongly to create the signature foam.

Fresh espresso works better than instant coffee or cold brew.

Chill the martini glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving.

Add more simple syrup for a sweeter drink, or use less for a stronger taste.

You can use store-bought simple syrup, or make your own by mixing equal parts sugar and hot water.

Tasting Notes

An Espresso Martini delivers a rich blend of coffee and vodka flavors with a smooth, velvety texture.

The coffee taste stands out, balanced by sweet notes from the coffee liqueur.

The first sip highlights the fresh espresso’s bold character.

This wakes up the taste buds, followed by the warming presence of vodka.

Sweet undertones from the coffee liqueur add depth without making the drink too sugary.

The cocktail balances bitter and sweet elements.

The foamy crema creates a luxurious mouthfeel.

This silky layer adds an extra dimension to each sip.

Key flavor notes:

Fresh espresso (bitter, roasted)
Coffee liqueur (sweet, rich)
Vodka (clean, crisp)
Crema foam (smooth, creamy)

Serve the drink very cold, around 32°F (0°C), to bring out the best flavors and keep the foam.

The finish leaves a pleasant coffee aftertaste that lingers briefly.

Caffeine and alcohol together create a unique sensation that makes this cocktail stand out.

Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe