Espresso Martini Cocktail

Whether you’re a beginner cocktail maker or a professional mixologist, this espresso martini recipe will quickly become a go-to. 

How to Make an Espresso Martini

You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let's go over the basics:

What Is an Espresso Martini? 

A vodka martini is a vodka cocktail made with espresso and coffee liqueur. The drink originated in the 1980s and experienced a surge in popularity in the 2020s. The act of shaking the espresso with the ice, liquor, and liqueurs creates a creamy, foamy topping. 

Espresso Martini Ingredients

These are the ingredients you’ll need to make this homemade espresso martini recipe: 

• Vodka: This espresso martini recipe (which makes one serving) starts with 1 ½ fluid ounces of vodka. 
• Liqueurs: You’ll need coffee-flavored liqueur (use a store-bought bottle, such as Kahlua, or make your own at home) and white creme de cacao. 
• Espresso: Make sure to completely cool the espresso before adding it to the cocktail shaker so the ice doesn’t melt. 
• Ice: Espresso martinis are served chilled, so you’ll need to shake all the ingredients with a cup of ice in a cocktail shaker.

Espresso Martini Preparation

Pour all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker, shake until chilled, and strain into a glass. That’s all there is to it. Find the full, step-by-step recipe below. 

How to Serve an Espresso Martini

Espresso martinis are traditionally served chilled in martini glasses. For a fancy touch, rim the glass with cinnamon-sugar and garnish with coffee beans. 

Editorial contributions by Corey Williams