Jump to:
- What is an Espresso Martini?
- The Espresso Martini Story
- When to have an Espresso Martini
- Espresso Martini Ingredients
- How to Make an Espresso Martini
- Other Versions of Espresso Martinis
Smooth and Creamy Goodness - Learn How to Make an Espresso Martini at Home
Are you looking for a new cocktail that combines your favourite coffee and liquor? If so, then an espresso martini is the perfect choice for you! These smooth, creamy, and stimulating drinks often cost a premium at bars, but are actually super simple and cheap to make right at home! In this blog, you’ll be able to learn everything you need to know about espresso martinis, from what ingredients are needed to how to make one and when the best time to enjoy one is.
Espresso Martini
What is an Espresso Martini?
An espresso martini is a luxurious and sophisticated cocktail that has found worldwide appeal. It consists of vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and (optional) simple syrup, giving it a unique blend of sharp and sweet notes. This drink is often served in a chilled martini glass, but it can also be served on the rocks or as a shot. Sipped slowly, an espresso martini is a delicate balance of smooth coffee flavour and stimulating alcohol that is sure to tantalize the taste buds. With its creamy texture, there’s no wonder it has developed and maintained its reputation as one of the go-to choices of beverages among craft cocktails and coffee enthusiasts!
The Espresso Martini Story
The legendary tale of Dick Bradsell’s invention of the Espresso Martini dates back to the late 1980s. During this time, he was working at renowned bars in London, such as The Player, 6 Degrees, and Match. It all began when a young model supposedly walked up to his bar and asked for something to “wake me up and f**k me up”, and that's when Bradsell created the now-iconic cocktail. The espresso martini, originally called The Vodka Espresso and even the Pharmaceutical Stimulant, has been captivating drinkers and keeping them alert throughout cocktail hour ever since.
When to have an Espresso Martini
The best time to enjoy an espresso martini is after dinner, when the night is still young. Perfect for celebrations and intimate gatherings, an espresso martini can be a welcome refreshment after a full meal and its caffeine kick is sure to keep the conversations flowing. No matter what the occasion, the espresso martini will be sure to bring a luxurious touch to your evening and keep your guests energized late into the night.
Espresso Martini Ingredients
The Espresso Martini is a delicious and classy cocktail that requires a surprisingly small list of ingredients. To make your own espresso martini at home, you need just four ingredients - vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso coffee and simple syrup - meaning it only takes minutes to whip up one of these bad boys at home.
Ingredient List (1 serving):
- 3 shots of vodka (120ml)
- 1.5 shots of coffee liqueur (60ml)
- 1.5 shots of espresso coffee (Aussie Arabica, Baba's Beard, or Kangabrew) - perferably cold or room temperature (60ml)
- 0.5 shot of syrup (optional) (20ml)
Looking to sweeten up your espresso martini? Try these alternatives to white sugar and simple syrup.
Espresso Martini Ingredients: Vodka, Coffee Liqeur, Espresso
Making an Espresso Martini
- Start by taking a martini glass and swirling ice within it to chill. Throw out the ice immediately
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, liqueur, espresso coffee and simple syrup, along with ice cubes. Shake well for 30 seconds.
- Then strain and pour the mixture into the chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with 3 coffee beans
- Enjoy your luxurious Espresso Martini and toast to the good times ahead!
Done brewing? It’s time to recycle and repurpose your used coffee capsules and coffee grounds.
Other Versions of Espresso Martinis
Thinking of putting your own spin on the classic espresso martini? Wow your guests or tantalize your own taste buds by trying out some of our great variations. All you’ll need are a few simple ingredients to create super smooth and sophisticated variations that will dazzle anyone who tries them.
Irish Espresso Martini - a unique twist on the classic that requires 3 shots of Irish whiskey, 1 shot of coffee liqueur, ½ shot of espresso coffee and 2 tablespoons of half-and-half cream. Combine the ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake until frothy. Strain into a martini glass, and garnish with ground coffee beans or chocolate shavings to create a truly indulgent experience.
Chocolate Espresso Martini - geared towards those with more of a sweet tooth, you will need 1 shot of vodka, 1 shot of coffee liqueur, 1 shot of heavy cream, 1 shot of white creme de cacao, and 2 shots of cold espresso coffee. In a shaker with ice, mix the vodka, liqueur, cream and creme de cacao. Shake for 30 seconds, then add the cold espresso coffee, and shake for another 15 seconds. Strain the mixture into a martini glass and garnish with chocolate shavings for a decadent treat.
Mojito Espresso Martini - a sharp departure from a traditional espresso martini, this light and refreshing variation on the original is perfect for summer vibes. To make it, you’ll need 3 shots of white rum, 2 shots of espresso, 1 shot of lime juice, and 2 shots of optional simple syrup. In a shaker, mix the rum, lime juice and simple syrup. Shake for 30 seconds and then add the espresso. Shake for 15 more seconds, and strain the mixture into a martini glass. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wedge to complete this fresh twist on the classic.
Show us your creations with the hashtag #baristababa
It's clear that espresso martinis are a timeless classic, but that doesn’t mean you need to spend big to enjoy one. Whether it's a traditional recipe or something a little more on the wild and creative side, making your own homemade espresso martinis is sure to tantalise your tastebuds and leave you wanting more. If you have a traditional or innovative recipe for espresso martinis, we invite you to showcase your unique creations with the hashtag #baristababahk. So don't be shy and show us what you've got - whether you prefer your martini shaken or stirred!
