How to Make a Homemade Espresso Martini

An Espresso Martini is a perfect blend of two classic drinks: espresso and vodka. It’s a great choice for coffee lovers who want a little bit of a kick, and it’s also a perfect choice for those who want to make a statement at their next party! With this guide, you’ll learn how to make your own espresso martinis at home, using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, and also learn more about them and ways you can get creative with them! 

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What Are Espresso Martinis?

Espresso martinis are a type of cocktail made with espresso, vodka, and Kahlua. They have become popular in recent years and are often served at bars and restaurants.

The origin of the espresso martini is somewhat disputed, but it is generally believed to have been created in the 1980s. Some sources credit the creation of the drink to Dick Bradsell, a bartender in London, while others claim it was created in New York City. 

One of the key ingredients in an espresso martini is, of course, espresso! Espresso is a type of coffee that is made by forcing a small amount of hot water through finely ground coffee beans. It is known for its strong, bold flavor and is often used as a base for other coffee drinks.

In addition to espresso, vodka and Kahlua are also important components of an espresso martini. Vodka is a type of clear, unflavored liquor that is made from grain or potatoes. It adds a smooth, neutral flavor to the drink. Kahlua is a type of coffee liqueur that is made with Arabica coffee beans, sugar, and corn syrup. It adds sweetness and extracoffee flavor to the drink.

The flavor profile of an espresso martini is complex and layered. The bold, strong flavor of the espresso is balanced by the sweetness of the Kahlua and the smoothness of the vodka. The result is a drink that is both stimulating and indulgent.

There are many creative variations of the espresso martini that have been developed over the years. One popular variation is the caramel espresso martini, which is made with caramel syrup in addition to the standard ingredients. Another variation is the chocolate espresso martini, which is made with chocolate liqueur in addition to the espresso, vodka, and Kahlua.

Foods that pair well with espresso martinis are those that have flavors that are complementary to the bold, coffee flavor of the drink. Desserts such as chocolate truffles, tiramisu, and cheesecake are all excellent choices. Savory foods such as cured meats and cheeses can also be paired with espresso martinis, as the strong flavor of the drink can help to cut through the richness of these foods.

With their bold espresso flavor and smooth, indulgent finish, espresso martinis are the perfect cocktail choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with complementary foods, espresso martinis are sure to be a hit!

Bar Tools to Make Homemade Espresso Martinis

To make an espresso martini, you will need the following bar tools:

A cocktail shaker: This is a metal or glass container with a tight-fitting lid that is used to shake and mix cocktails. It is essential for making an espresso martini, as it helps to combine the ingredients and chill the drink.

A jigger: This is a small, hourglass-shaped measuring tool that is used to measure out precise amounts of ingredients for cocktails. It is important to use a jigger when making an espresso martini to ensure that the proportions of the ingredients are correct.

A strainer: This is a tool with a fine mesh that is used to strain cocktails and remove any ice or other solids that may be present. A strainer is essential for making an espresso martini, as it ensures that the drink is smooth and free of any ice shards or coffee grounds.

Here is a great bar tool set that includes a cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer, mixing spoon and muddler! 

A martini glass: This is a stemmed glass with a wide, cone-shaped bowl that is used to serve cocktails. An espresso martini should be served in a chilled martini glass to enhance the flavors and aromas of the drink.

If you need martini glasses, I found the perfect ones!

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Optional: If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, there are several kitchen items that you can use in its place to mix and chill cocktails. Some options include:

Mason jar, a Mason jar with a tight-fitting lid can be used as a makeshift cocktail shaker. Simply add the ingredients to the jar, seal the lid tightly, and shake well to mix and chill the drink.

Find my favorite mason jars linked here!

Water bottle, a water bottle with a tight-fitting cap can also be used as a cocktail shaker. Add the ingredients to the bottle, seal the cap tightly, and shake well to mix and chill the drink.

Glass jar, a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid can be used in the same way as a Mason jar or water bottle. Add the ingredients to the jar, seal the lid tightly, and shake well to mix and chill the drink.

Blender, if you don’t have any of these items on hand, you can also use a blender to mix and chill cocktails. Simply combine the ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a chilled glass and serve immediately.

Find my favorite blender linked here!

Creative Variations of Espresso Martinis

Here are some creative variations of an espresso martini:

Caramel Espresso Martini: This variation is made by adding caramel syrup to the standard recipe for an espresso martini. The caramel adds a rich, sweet flavor to the drink and pairs well with the bold, coffee flavor of the espresso.

Rim the glass with a thin coating of caramel and dip it into crushed graham crackers for a rim that’s extra fun!

Chocolate Espresso Martini: This variation is made by adding chocolate liqueur to the standard recipe for an espresso martini. The chocolate adds a rich, creamy flavor to the drink and pairs well with the bold, coffee flavor of the espresso.

Rim the glass with a thin coating of chocolate syrup and dip it into small chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for a rim that’s extra chocolate-y!

Vanilla Espresso Martini: This variation is made by adding vanilla extract or vanilla liqueur to the standard recipe for an espresso martini. The vanilla adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the drink and pairs well with the bold, coffee flavor of the espresso.

Spiced Espresso Martini: This variation is made by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the standard recipe for an espresso martini. The spices add a warm, aromatic flavor to the drink and pair well with the bold, coffee flavor of the espresso.

Coconut Espresso Martini: This variation is made by adding coconut liqueur or coconut cream to the standard recipe for an espresso martini. The coconut adds a tropical, creamy flavor to the drink and pairs well with the bold, coffee flavor of the espresso.

Rim the glass with a thin coating of simple syrup and dip it into some shredded coconut or coconut flakes for a beautiful rim with extra coconut flavor!

Maple Espresso Martini: This variation is made by subbing maple syrup for the simple syrup in the standard recipe for an espresso martini. The maple syrup adds a rich, sweet flavor to the drink and pairs well with the bold, coffee flavor of the espresso.

Rim the glass with a thin coating of maple syrup and dip it into some flakey sea salt for a delicious rim that is both sweet and salty!

Irish Espresso Martini: This variation is made by replacing the vodka in the standard recipe for an espresso martini with Irish whiskey. The Irish whiskey adds a smooth, rich flavor to the drink and pairs well with the bold, coffee flavor of the espresso.

How to Make a Homemade Espresso Martinis

Note: If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, you can also combine the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a chilled glass and serve immediately.

How to Store Leftover Homemade Espresso Martinis

It is generally not recommended to store leftover espresso martinis, as the flavor and quality of the drink may deteriorate over time. Espresso martinis are best enjoyed fresh and should be prepared and served immediately.

However, if you do have leftover espresso martinis, the best way to store them is to transfer the drink to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The drink will keep for a day or two in the refrigerator, but it is best to consume it as soon as possible to ensure the best quality.

When storing leftover espresso martinis, it is important to shake or stir the drink well before serving to reincorporate any ingredients that may have separated. The drink should also be served chilled, so be sure to allow it to cool in the refrigerator before serving.

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Espresso Martini

1 serving

2 mins

1 1/2 ounces vodka

1 ounce Kahlua

1 ounce freshly brewed espresso

1/2 ounce simple syrup 

ice

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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add the vodka, Kahlua, espresso, and simple syrup to the cocktail shaker.

Shake for a full 30 seconds to combine the ingredients, chill the drink and get a nice level of foam on top.

Strain the drink into a chilled martini glass and garnish with 3 coffee beans on top, if desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Note: If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, you can also combine the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a chilled glass and serve immediately.