Classic Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe and The Best Variations
The classic recipe for crafting the perfect Espresso Martini.
The Espresso Martini truly is a modern day classic. First created in the 1980s by London bartender and cocktail legend Dick Bradsell. Who also happens to be credited with the invention of the Bramble.
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The Rise of the Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini has become more than just a drink; it's a cultural icon. Born in the vibrant nightlife of London in the 1980s, this cocktail quickly gained popularity for its unique combination of coffee and spirits. Today, it stands as a favorite for those who appreciate the perfect marriage of bold coffee flavor and a smooth alcoholic kick.
The Invention of the Espresso Martini
As the story goes by Dick himself, a famous model entered the Soho Brasserie where he was working, and asked him to create a drink that would “wake me up & f*ck me up”. Dick had a coffee machine nearby and thought “hey, vodka and espresso should do the trick”, and with that, the rest is history.
Who that model was has been a mystery since the story was first told. Rumour has it that the model was Naomi Campbell, maybe even Kate Moss, but in an 2011 interview with the then global brand director at Absolut Elyx, Bradsell’s was quoted saying “I don’t know who it was, I don’t even know if she was a model, she just looked like she could of been one” so it might just be a case that the story got built up from “a pretty girl asked me for a cocktail” to the much more favourable story of “A mysterious famous supermodel wanted a drink… possibly Kate Moss”
That being said, Bradsell’s daughter Beatrice Bradsell has since said that she was indeed a famous model. Unfortunately we will never know, Dick Bradsell passed away from a brain tumour in 2016 at age 56.
How the Espresso Martini Became Popular
When Bradsell first invented this cocktail, he named it the Vodka Espresso. It was renamed as the Pharmaceutical Stimulant during Dick’s time at London bar The Pharmacy, and then back to Vodka Espresso when Dick became Match Bar EC1’s opening Head Bartender. Dick was constantly tweaking the recipe and serve but in the 1990s, it seemed he settled on the recipe we know today served in a martini glass. The cocktail really took of during this time in the 1990s, which is also when the name was changed to the Espresso Martini.
However, it wasn’t actually Dick who changed the name. During the 90s, London was crazy for all things ‘tini’ The vodka martini had taken off and anything served in a martini glass was christened a martini. Passionfruit and vanilla in a martini glass? Pornstar Martini. Lychee liqueur and lemon in a martini glass? Lychee Martini. It didn’t matter what the ingredients were, if it was in a Martini glass, it was a ‘X Martini’ hence the Vodka Espresso becoming the Espresso Martini. Even though Dick didn’t officially change the name, he didn’t seem to mind the name change and even began calling it the Espresso Martini himself.
Espresso Martini Ingredients
To embark on our Espresso Martini adventure, let's first talk ingredients. What makes this cocktail so special are the carefully selected spirits that go into it. The main ingredients of an Espresso Martini are;
Vodka
Coffee Liqueur
Espresso
Sugar Syrup
But with every one of those, the brands and product you decide to use it completely up to you. Let’s run through some popular choices.
Mr. Black Espresso Martinis
Mr. Black, a high-quality coffee liqueur, brings a depth of flavor that sets the Espresso Martini apart. With its rich and intense coffee notes, Mr. Black adds a touch of sophistication to your drink. It's the secret weapon that transforms a good cocktail into a great one.
Kahlúa and Tia Maria: Decoding the Richness of Coffee Flavors
Kahlúa and Tia Maria, both coffee-flavored liqueurs, contribute a luscious sweetness and complexity to the mix. The marriage of these two liqueurs creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate, enhancing the overall experience of the Espresso Martini.
Vanilla Vodka
Don't forget the vanilla vodka! Its sweet and smooth profile complements the coffee notes, providing a well-rounded flavor that makes each sip a pleasure. Opt for a high-quality vanilla vodka to elevate your Espresso Martini game.
Why 3 beans in Espresso Martini?
Now, you might have wondered about the three coffee beans that often adorn the top of your Espresso Martini. Is it just for show, or is there some secret meaning behind it? Back in the day people use to think that the 3 beans represented each ingredient - Vodka, Coffee, and Coffee Liqueur. But of course since those days it’s not popular to add sugar syrup, which would be a 4th ingredient.
Furthermore we have learnt the real reason behind the Espresso Martini’s 3 bean garnish…
Symbolism in the Espresso Martini
Believe it or not, those three little beans hold meaning beyond just aesthetics. Traditionally, they symbolize health, wealth, and happiness. So, not only do they make your cocktail look Instagram-worthy, but they also bring a bit of positive energy to your sipping experience.
Enhancing Aesthetics and Presentation
Speaking of aesthetics, let's not underestimate the power of presentation. The Espresso Martini is as much about the visual appeal as it is about taste. Those three beans floating on the velvety froth create a simple yet elegant finishing touch that adds to the overall enjoyment.
The Ritual of Enjoying Each Sip
Now, onto the ritual of sipping your Espresso Martini. Take a moment to appreciate the aroma as you lift the glass to your lips. The coffee notes hit your senses first, followed by the warmth of the alcohol. It's a sensory experience that goes beyond just drinking; it's an indulgent ritual.
Garnishes and Presentation Tips
Don't forget the finishing touches. Whether it's a dusting of cocoa powder, a swirl of chocolate syrup, or a cinnamon stick stirrer, the right garnish can elevate your Espresso Martini from good to extraordinary.
How to get a creamy, frothy and foamy Espresso Martini
As for the age old question of can you get a fluffy head on a homemade espresso martini, what is that froth and how to do it, read this detailed article how to get a foam on your Espresso Martini. But spoiler, yes you can do it at home and no it isn’t difficult.
Espresso Martini Video Recipe
Classic Espresso Martini Recipe
espresso martini
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shake everything well in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Fine strain into a chilled martini glass or coupe.
Notes
Top tips on getting the perfect espresso martini foam!
The difficulty I see most people face with this classic cocktail, is the foam. An espresso martini is noticeable for that thick creamy white foam sitting on top. If you're not quite getting that foam, check out this short article to troubleshoot your espresso martini foam.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
202.49Fat
0.12Sat. Fat
0.05Carbs
12.52Fiber
0Net carbs
12.52Sugar
11.82Protein
0.06Sodium
11.76Cholesterol
0The nutritional information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice. See our full nutrition disclosure here.
The Best Espresso Martini Variations
While the classic Espresso Martini is a masterpiece on its own, there's always room for a little experimentation. Let's explore some creative twists that will add a spark to your mixology adventures.
Chocolate Espresso Martini Recipe
For the chocolate lovers out there, why not infuse your Espresso Martini with a hint of decadence? Add a splash of chocolate liqueur or chocolate bitters to the mix. The result? A rich, velvety cocktail that satisfies your sweet tooth and caffeine cravings simultaneously.
1 oz Vanilla Vodka
1 oz Chocolate Liqueur
1 oz Freshly Brewed Espresso
Ice
Chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions: Shake all ingredients vigorously with ice, strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with chocolate shavings.
A similar recipe to this is the ultimate Boozy Hot Chocolate which you can get here.
Baileys Espresso Martini Recipe
If you're a fan of Irish cream, this variation is for you. Swap out the traditional coffee liqueurs for a generous pour of Bailey's Irish Cream. The creamy texture of Bailey's blends seamlessly with the coffee, creating a luxurious and indulgent treat.
1 oz Bailey's Irish Cream
1 oz Mr. Black
1 oz Vanilla Vodka
1 oz Freshly Brewed Espresso
Ice
Coffee beans for garnish
Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with coffee beans.
Gin Espresso Martini Recipe
For those who love a botanical twist, try incorporating gin into your Espresso Martini. The herbal and floral notes of gin add a unique layer of complexity to the cocktail, making it a refreshing alternative to the classic recipe.
1 oz Gin
1 oz Coffee Liqueur
1 oz Sugar Syrup
1 oz Freshly Brewed Espresso
Ice
3 coffee beans for garnish
Instructions: Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.
Frozen Espresso Martini Recipe
When the weather calls for something chilly, consider making a frozen version of the Espresso Martini. Blend together ice, coffee, and your favorite coffee liqueurs for a slushy, delightful treat that's perfect for warm evenings or brunch gatherings.
1 oz Coffee Liqueur
1 oz Vodka
2 oz Cold Brew Coffee
1 cup Ice
Whipped cream for topping
Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth, pour into a chilled glass, and top with whipped cream.
Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini Recipe
When autumn arrives, bring out the warmth of pumpkin spice. Add a dash of pumpkin spice syrup to your Espresso Martini for a cozy and comforting twist. It's like sipping on a piece of fall in a glass.
Peppermint Espresso Martini Recipe
During the holiday season, why not infuse a bit of festive cheer into your Espresso Martini? A splash of peppermint schnapps or a candy cane garnish will transform your cocktail into a merry and bright delight.
1 oz Peppermint Schnapps
1 oz Coffee Liqueur
1 oz Vanilla Vodka
1 oz Freshly Brewed Espresso
Ice
Crushed candy cane for rimming (optional)
Instructions: Rim the glass with crushed candy cane or garnish with mint leaves. Shake all other ingredients with ice, strain into the glass, and enjoy the holiday vibes.
Parmesan Espresso Martini Recipe
The Parmesan Espresso Martini is something that went crazy on TikTok and Instagram last year. It’s basically a classic Espresso Martini but with cheese on it. However, the combination really does work.
Squid Game Espresso Martini Recipe
This honeycomb and Dalgona Squid Game Espresso Martini is both fun to make and fun to drink. As a plus, it’s also absolutely delicious!
Salted Caramel Espresso Martini Recipe
Rum and salted caramel schnapps garnished with a full size Diam bar. What’s not to love?
Cereal Milk Espresso Martini Recipe
For those who like a milky Espresso Martini, check out this cornflakes cereal milk infused twist on the classic. Served with a bowl of cereal.
Hazelnut Espresso Martini Recipe
Finally, we have the most gorgeous espresso martini on the list. A Hazelnut Espresso Martini with a homemade Hazelnut and coffee liqueur.
The Best ever Tiramisu Martini with Vanilla Vodka, Baileys, Coffee Liqueur and Amaretto.
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