Copycat Espresso Martini Recipe – Make the Perfect Cocktail at Home

If you want to recreate a bar-quality espresso martini at home, you need three key elements: freshly brewed espresso, quality vodka, and coffee liqueur in the right ratios.

A perfect espresso martini should be smooth, slightly sweet, and have a thick crema foam on top.

By using fresh espresso instead of instant coffee and shaking your cocktail vigorously, you will achieve the velvety texture and rich coffee flavor you expect from a well-made espresso martini in a cocktail bar.

Espresso Martini Recipe

Bring the sophistication of your favorite cocktail bar into your own kitchen with this perfectly balanced espresso martini.

Smooth, slightly sweet, and crowned with a thick crema foam, this drink is made for coffee lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 1

Course: Cocktail

Cuisine: Modern/International

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 50 ml vodka Use a clean, neutral vodka
• 25 ml coffee liqueur Kahlua or Mr Black preferred
• 25 ml freshly brewed espresso
• 10 ml sugar syrup Optional, adjust to your taste
• A handful of ice cubes
• 3 coffee beans

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker (Boston shaker or Cobbler shaker)
• Jigger or measuring tool
• Fine mesh strainer
• Espresso machine (or moka pot as an alternative)
• Martini glass (pre-chilled)

Method

 

1. Brew Fresh Espresso

   Make a strong, hot espresso shot using freshly ground coffee for the best flavor and foam.
   
2. Chill Your Glass

   Place your martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to keep your cocktail cold.
   
3. Combine Ingredients in Shaker

   Pour 50 ml vodka, 25 ml coffee liqueur, 25 ml hot espresso, and 10 ml sugar syrup (if desired) into your cocktail shaker.
   
4. Add Ice and Shake Vigorously

   Fill the shaker with ice, seal, and shake firmly for 15–20 seconds to chill, dilute slightly, and build the signature crema foam.
   
5. Strain and Garnish

   Double-strain into your chilled glass and top with 3 coffee beans for a classic finish.
   

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

• Use Fresh Espresso: Cold or stale espresso won’t create the crema.
• Shake Vigorously: This step aerates and emulsifies the cocktail for a thick foam.
• Cool Slightly if Needed: If your espresso is too hot, wait 30 seconds before shaking.
• Balance Sweetness: Adjust sugar syrup to taste or skip entirely for a more robust drink.
• Experiment: Try Mr Black for a less sweet, bolder coffee flavor.

Advanced Variations

Once you have mastered the classic espresso martini, you can easily customize it to match your taste preferences or to add variety when serving guests. Here are refined variations you can prepare to elevate your espresso martini at home.

Vanilla Espresso Martini

To create a Vanilla Espresso Martini, add 5 ml of vanilla syrup to your shaker along with your usual ingredients. The vanilla syrup adds a warm, aromatic layer that complements the bitterness of the espresso and the depth of the coffee liqueur, creating a smooth and slightly sweet finish.

If you prefer a stronger vanilla presence, you can add a few drops of high-quality vanilla extract in addition to the syrup for a richer aroma. This variation is ideal if you enjoy a mellow, comforting coffee cocktail without overpowering sweetness.

Mocha Espresso Martini

For a chocolate-infused version, add 5 ml of crème de cacao to your espresso martini recipe. Crème de cacao brings a soft, velvety chocolate note that pairs seamlessly with the espresso’s bitterness and the liqueur’s richness. This addition transforms your cocktail into a mocha-inspired drink without making it too sweet.

You can garnish this variation with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a few chocolate shavings on the foam for a refined presentation. This option is perfect for dessert-style espresso martinis during gatherings or after dinner.

Spiced Espresso Martini

@lexielouuuuu 🌶️🍸Spicy Espresso Martini 🍸🌶️ -2 oz of reposado tequila, I used @carretadeoro *Gifted -0.5 oz of coffee liqueur, I used @mrblackspirits -1 oz of fresh pulled espresso, or you can use strong coffee or cold brew -0.5 oz of @anchoreyes -3/4 oz of agave nectar (adjust to taste) -A couple of dashes of chocolate bitters -Shake well -rim chilled glass with smoked sea salt & brown sugar -Garnish with dried chili 🌶️ -Cheers 🥂 #espressomartini #martini #holidaycocktails #holidaydrinks #cocktails #cocktail #cocktailsofinstagram #cocktailrecipes #drinkrecipes #falldrink #thanksgivingrecipes #holidayrecipes #tequila #french75 #dirtymartini #anchoreyes #spicyespressomartini #drinkinspo #explore #explorepage #explorepage✨#fyp #cocktailswithlex ♬ son original – The King of funk

To give your espresso martini a unique edge, add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper before shaking the ingredients with ice. Cinnamon and nutmeg will bring warmth and a gentle spice to the drink, enhancing the espresso’s richness, while cayenne pepper will add a subtle heat that becomes more noticeable with each sip without overpowering the coffee flavor.

If you enjoy experimenting with spice, try adding a tiny pinch of chili powder for a deeper warmth. This spiced variation is especially suitable for cooler months when you want a cocktail with a comforting kick.

Conclusion

Making a copycat espresso martini at home is straightforward when you follow precise measurements and steps. Using fresh espresso, quality vodka, and coffee liqueur, shaking vigorously, and straining properly will help you achieve a smooth, foamy, and balanced cocktail that rivals your favorite cocktail bar.

Once you master the base recipe, you can adjust sweetness levels and experiment with advanced variations to suit your taste, giving you a reliable go-to cocktail for relaxing evenings or impressing guests at your next gathering.