I love making cocktails that really wow my friends, and honestly, the Witch Hat Espresso Martini with dry ice totally nails it. It’s inspired by the classic espresso martini from Dick Bradsell, but this one’s got a playful, Halloween vibe.
The dry ice gives the drink this smoky, magical look, but you still get that rich espresso flavor everyone’s obsessed with.
If you want to impress people at your next party, seriously, give this recipe a shot. I’ve put together a step-by-step guide with all the gear, ingredients, and simple instructions you’ll need.
Getting that classic cocktail taste with a show-stopping presentation? Turns out it’s not as hard as it looks.
Witch Hat Espresso Martini With Dry Ice Cocktail Recipe
I’m a sucker for cocktails that look cool and taste even better. My Witch Hat Espresso Martini uses vodka, coffee liqueur, and dry ice for a smoky, show-stopping drink—honestly, it’s perfect for Halloween or just because.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker: I use this to chill and mix everything fast.
- Martini glass: Because it just feels right for this drink.
- Espresso machine: Fresh espresso makes a difference, trust me.
- Measuring jigger: For not screwing up the ratios.
- Bar strainer: Keeps out those annoying ice shards.
- Small funnel (optional): Actually handy for pouring, especially with dry ice.
- Gloves or tongs: Never, ever touch dry ice bare-handed.
- Coffee grinder (if using whole beans): Fresh-ground beans add this extra coffee punch.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka: I stick with plain vodka for a smooth base.
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa): Sweet and coffee-y.
- 1 oz fresh espresso: I pull this right before mixing, so it’s nice and hot.
- ½ oz simple syrup: I’ll tweak this depending on my mood.
- Ice cubes: Chills everything down in the shaker.
- A few coffee beans: For garnish, because why not?
- Dry ice pellet (food-safe): Gives that awesome smoky, bubbling effect.
- Black or purple edible glitter (optional): Sprinkled on top for a magical look.
Instructions
- Brew hot espresso and let it cool a couple minutes.
- Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Pour in vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup.
- Shake hard for about 20 seconds—get it nice and frothy.
- Strain into a martini glass using a fine mesh strainer.
- With gloves or tongs, carefully drop in a small piece of dry ice.
- Top with three coffee beans and a little edible glitter if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
I’m always super careful with dry ice. No one should drink until the dry ice is totally gone—seriously, don’t mess with that.
If you want a decaf version, just swap in decaf espresso. For a stronger coffee vibe, add a bit more espresso.
Making simple syrup is easy: equal parts sugar and water, heat until dissolved. Fresh espresso just tastes better than regular coffee here.
When I use dry ice, I break it into small pieces wrapped in a towel with a hammer, and always use tongs or gloves. Edible glitter is totally optional, but honestly, it makes the drink pop at any party.
Equipment
- Espresso machine or strong brewed coffee
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur e.g., Kahlúa
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso slightly cooled
- ½ oz simple syrup adjust to taste
- Ice cubes
- 3 coffee beans for garnish
- 1 small food-safe dry ice pellet for visual effect only
- Optional: black or purple edible glitter for garnish
Instructions
- Brew your espresso and let it cool slightly.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until frothy and chilled.
- Strain into a martini glass using a fine mesh strainer.
- Garnish with three coffee beans and edible glitter, if using.
- Do not sip until the dry ice has fully dissipated.
Tasting Notes
First sip? The coffee aroma hits you right away—so good. The espresso is bold and roasted, kind of comforting if you ask me.
Vodka gives a smooth finish, but doesn’t overpower. Sweetness from the coffee liqueur blends in just right.
The dry ice is all about the drama, chilling the glass and making that foggy effect. It doesn’t change the taste, but it does keep things crisp.
Drinking this feels like a treat—cold, smooth, and just a little bit spooky. I really do think it’s the perfect party drink.
Must Have Ingredients
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Substitute
If I don’t have all the ingredients or equipment for the Witch Hat Espresso Martini, I just look around for whatever might work. No need to run to the store unless you really want to.
Equipment:
- No cocktail shaker? I just grab a mason jar with a tight lid and call it good.
- Missing a jigger? Honestly, I’ll use a tablespoon (since 1 jigger is about 2 tablespoons).
- Martini glass not on hand? A small juice glass does the trick for me.
Ingredients:
- Espresso isn’t always available, so I’ll use strong brewed coffee or even instant espresso powder mixed with hot water.
- If vodka’s out, I’ll reach for any clear, mild spirit hanging around.
- No coffee liqueur? Sometimes I swap in chocolate liqueur or a splash of sweetened cold brew.
- For the witch hat decoration, I’ll either make a quick one from black paper or just skip it. Honestly, it’s not a dealbreaker.
Instructions:
- I shake everything as hard as I can to get that frothy top, even if I’ve swapped ingredients.
- If dry ice isn’t around, I’ll just use regular ice cubes. It’s still cold, right?
- For garnish, I’ll go with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or just leave it plain if I’m out of options.
No need to stress—these swaps keep things easy and fun.
