The Secret to Creating the Perfect Espresso Martini
Coffee lovers and cocktail connoisseurs rejoice at the mention of the Espresso Martini, a cocktail that has adored fans since it exploded on the bar/nightclub scene in the 1980s. In fact, history reveals that the Cosmo (i.e., the cosmopolitan, another signature vodka drink) and Espresso Martini are the two potent potables that defined the modern drinking sophistication of the 1990s.
The espresso martini takes a bit of finesse to craft the perfect cocktail. However, with a bit of practice and some fresh espresso, your espresso martinis will be sure to thrill and please the guests at your next holiday get-together.
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Ingredients for the Perfect Espresso Martini
While one espresso martini cocktail takes only minutes to prepare, it's likely you or your guests will remember this delicious cocktail long after your last sip.
If you don't include ice, the espresso martini is crafted from only four ingredients -
- 1.25 Ounces of Fresh Espresso
Pro-tip - Fresh espresso is a crucial ingredient in making the espresso martini taste great. This is due to the crema – the tan-colored oily froth that floats atop the espresso when brewed. However, if time or circumstances do not permit, fortunately, there are a number of ways to brew espresso that do not require a machine. [Cold brew concentrate is an option although not preferred.]
- ¾ oz. of Coffee Liqueur
Pro-tip - Any kind of premium coffee liqueur will – consider Mr. Black or Kahlua. - ½ oz. of Simple Syrup
Pro-tip – Simple sugar is a staple sweetener in the culinary and cocktail worlds. It is simply a combination of two parts of sugar to one part of water - that is boiled until the granular sugar dissolves. If you like your coffee less sweet, simply leave out the simple syrup. If you want it a bit creamier, add in ½ ounce of Bailey's Irish Cream! - 1 Ounce of Vodka
- Optional Garnish – Several Coffee Beans.
Directions for Making the Perfect Espresso Martini
An Espresso Martini is a hand-shaken cocktail which is one of the reasons for its characteristic and signature frothy texture when served. To make the perfect espresso martini, follow this simple guidance -
- Combine the fresh espresso, coffee liqueur, simple syrup, and vodka in a mixing tin.
- Add ice and vigorously shake for at least 15 to 30 seconds. This should be the ideal amount of time you need to create its delicious, signature frothy foam.
Pro-tip – It is the collision of hot and cold temperatures while vigorously shaking (in other words, it is science!) that creates the perfect frothy layer when pouring your espresso martini. To ensure your martini is frothy, be sure you use freshly brewed, hot espresso. Then add plenty of ice to your cocktail shaker when mixing the ingredients together. - Strain into a wide, shallow cocktail glass.
- Garnish with three to four coffee beans.
Tips & Suggestions for Creating the Perfect Espresso Martini
The espresso martini is sure to be a party or crowd-pleaser. Consider these suggestions when planning your next batch of espresso martinis –
- Don't skimp when selecting a coffee liqueur – use a premium brand to craft an ideal cocktail.
- Don't over-sweeten the espresso martini, which is easy to do, considering the drink's sweetness comes from both the simple syrup and coffee liqueur.
- Do not over-shake the espresso martini, as this over-dilutes the drink, creating an unbalanced cocktail.
- For an interesting twist, add a bit of cognac to create a deliciously potent potable.
📖 Recipe
The Perfect Espresso Martini
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1.25 ounces fresh espresso
- ¾ ounces coffee liqueur
- ½ ounces simple syrup
- 1 ounce Vodka
Instructions
- Combine the fresh espresso, coffee liqueur, simple syrup, and vodka in a mixing tin.1.25 ounces fresh espresso, ¾ ounces coffee liqueur, ½ ounces simple syrup, 1 ounce Vodka
- Add ice and vigorously shake for at least 15 to 30 seconds. This should be the ideal amount of time you need to create its delicious, signature frothy foam.
- Strain into a wide, shallow cocktail glass.
- Garnish with three to four coffee beans.
Notes
As with any of my recipes, calorie counts and nutritional information varies greatly depending on which products you choose to use when cooking this dish.
Nutrition
