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A freshly made espresso martini in a coupe glass topped with three coffee beans sits on a dark napkin on a bar counter

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
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.
    A person pours freshly brewed espresso into a clear glass cup next to a container of ice on a marble counter
  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.
    A person places coffee beans on top of a freshly poured espresso martini in a coupe glass next to an empty glass and cocktail tools

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.