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A chilled espresso martini in a coupe glass topped with a thick layer of creamy foam and three coffee beans, set on a metal tray with scattered coffee beans, small espresso cups, and a cocktail jigger in the background.
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Espresso Martini

Learn how to make a bar-quality Espresso Martini with a perfect creamy foam layer on top. The right top-shelf ingredients make all the difference in creating bold, balanced flavor.
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Servings: 1 martini
Calories: 248kcal
Author: Valerie Brunmeier

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ ounces good quality vodka like Ketel One
  • 1 ½ ounces coffee liqueur like Mr Black
  • 1 ½ ounces espresso cooled
  • ½ ounce hazelnut liqueur like Frangelico (can use simple syrup)
  • 2 or 3 large ice cubes
  • Coffee beans for garnish

Instructions

  • Add 3 large ice cubes to a large metal cocktail shaker.
  • Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and hazelnut liqueur (or simple syrup).
  • Secure the top on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds.
  • Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
  • Let the drink rest for about 30 seconds to allow the creamy foam layer to develop before serving.
  • Garnish with coffee beans, if desired.

Notes

Espresso: Use freshly brewed espresso and allow it to cool before adding it to the shaker. You can brew your own, buy a shot from a coffee shop, or use very strong coffee in a pinch.
Frangelico vs. simple syrup: We always make this cocktail with Frangelico because the hazelnut flavor pairs beautifully with the espresso and adds just the right amount of sweetness. Simple syrup works too if you prefer a more neutral sweetness.
Using Kahlúa as a substitute: Kahlúa is much sweeter than Mr Black, so no additional sweetener is needed. If you use Kahlúa, skip the Frangelico or simple syrup.
Ice: For the thick, frothy crema, use a large metal cocktail shaker and a few large pieces of ice. Avoid overfilling the shaker — you want the ice to travel forcefully back and forth for maximum aeration.
Equipment: A large metal shaker with a built-in strainer works best for creating that signature foam.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cocktail | Calories: 248kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 10mg | Potassium: 49mg | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.1mg