Espresso Martini Recipe – Vodka, Coffee, and Cocktail Elegance

Sleek, sophisticated, and just the right amount of bold, the Espresso Martini is the cocktail that bridges the gap between after-dinner coffee and a night out on the town. Invented in the 1980s for a model who famously asked for something to “wake me up and f*** me up,” this rich and frothy drink quickly became an icon. In this post, you'll learn the secret to mastering the classic Espresso Martini at home—from pulling a perfect shot of espresso to achieving that signature silky foam. Whether you're capping off a special dinner or getting ready for an unforgettable evening, this cocktail brings both buzz and beauty to your glass.

4/27/20251 min read

Ingredients (1 serving):

2 oz (60 ml) vodka
1 oz (30 ml) freshly brewed espresso (cooled slightly)
½ oz (15 ml) coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Ice

Garnish:

3 whole coffee beans (for the classic look and good luck)

Equipment Needed:

Cocktail shaker
Jigger or measuring tool
Fine mesh strainer (optional, for extra smoothness)
Martini glass or coupe glass

Instructions:

Brew the espresso:
- Brew a fresh, strong shot of espresso and let it cool slightly—just a few minutes so it’s not piping hot.
Prepare your shaker:
- Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
Add the ingredients:
- Pour into the shaker:
  - 2 oz vodka
  - 1 oz espresso
  - ½ oz coffee liqueur
  - ½ oz simple syrup (optional, adjust based on your sweetness preference)
Shake it hard:
- Shake vigorously for at least 15–20 seconds. You want to create a nice, frothy crema on top.
Strain and serve:
- Strain into a chilled martini glass or coupe. (Use a fine strainer if you want an ultra-smooth texture.)
Garnish:
- Gently place three coffee beans on top of the foam for the classic finish.

Tips for the Perfect Espresso Martini:

Fresh espresso is key—instant coffee won’t give you the same crema and flavor.
Shake hard and fast to create that signature frothy layer on top.
Adjust the sweetness by tweaking the simple syrup amount to suit your taste.
For extra depth, some bartenders use a dash of vanilla extract or a chocolate bitters twist!