I love mixing drinks and I’ve had a lot of fun finding the best espresso martini recipes out there. I’ve put together a list of 17 awesome versions of this coffee-flavoured cocktail.
Whether you’re new to making drinks or you’re looking for something new to try, these recipes are sure to add some excitement to your glass. Let’s dive into these must-try variations and find your new favourite!
Espresso Martini Variations
I’ve categorized 17 espresso martini recipes, blending classic charm with innovative twists, ready to elevate your cocktail experience. Let’s explore
Vodka-Based: Classic and Simple
Classic Espresso Martini
2 oz Vodka
1 oz Espresso
1/2 oz Coffee liqueur
1/4 oz Demerara simple syrup
1/4 oz Amaro nonino
Review: Smooth, sophisticated with a perfect balance of coffee and sweetness. An absolute classic that never fails to impress.
Simple Espresso Martini
2 oz Vodka
1 oz Espresso
1 oz Tia Maria
Simple syrup (optional/to taste)
Review: Less complex but equally delightful. The Tia Maria brings a lovely depth. Great for a quick, satisfying mix.
Vodka-Based: Flavored and Infused
Chocolate Enhanced Espresso Martini
2 oz Hangar One Vodka
1 oz Espresso
1 oz Kahlua Especial
Shaved dark chocolate
3 Espresso beans
Review: A chocolate lover’s dream. Rich, decadent with a perfect espresso kick. The shaved chocolate adds a nice touch.
Vodka and Espresso with Vanilla and Chocolate
1 oz Vodka
0.5 oz Kahlua
0.5 oz Baileys
1 pump Monin Dark Chocolate
2 oz Espresso shot
Review: Sweet, indulgent, and beautifully layered. The vanilla and chocolate blend seamlessly with the coffee.
Melbourne Espresso Martini
40 ml Wyborowa Vodka
30 ml Cold Espresso
20 ml Illy Coffee Liqueur
5 ml Caramel Monin
Review: A delightful twist with caramel sweetness. It’s sophisticated and offers a unique flavor profile. Perfect for dessert.
Vodka-Based: Creamy and Dessert-Inspired
Vodka with Cream Espresso Martini
1 Shot Espresso
2 oz Vodka
1 oz Licor 43
A splash of Cream
Review: Luxuriously creamy and smooth. The Licor 43 adds a beautifully complex sweetness. It’s like dessert in a glass.
Licor 43 Espresso Martini
2 oz Cold Brew Concentrate
2 oz Three Olives Espresso Vodka
0.75 oz Licor 43 (infused with Espresso Beans and Vanilla Beans for 48 hours)
Review: An exceptional drink with deep flavors. The cold brew concentrate and Licor 43 infusion create a memorable experience.
Whiskey/Bourbon-Based
Bourbon Espresso Martini
Double Shot Espresso
1.5 oz Bourbon
0.5 oz Kahlua
0.5 oz Irish Cream
Review: A bold, rich treat. The bourbon adds a warming depth that’s perfectly complemented by the smooth Irish cream.
Bourbon Chocolate Bitters Espresso Martini
2 oz Bourbon
1 oz Espresso
0.5 oz Kahlua
0.25 oz Brown Sugar Syrup
Chocolate Bitters
Review: Complex and intriguing. The chocolate bitters and brown sugar syrup add layers of flavor that bourbon lovers will cherish.
Tequila and Mezcal-Based
Tequila Espresso Martini
2 oz Reposado Tequila
1 oz Espresso
0.75 oz Mr. Black
0.75 oz Irish Cream
Review: Smooth with a tequila kick. The combination of espresso and Irish cream makes this a standout drink.
Mezcal Espresso Martini
1 oz Mr Black
1 oz Mezcal
1 oz Espresso
0.25 oz Agave Syrup
Garnish with 3 Coffee Beans
Review: The smokiness of mezcal pairs brilliantly with the richness of espresso. An adventurous choice that’s absolutely rewarding.
Rum-Based
Cold Brew and Rum Espresso Martini
1 oz Cold Brew
1 oz Spiced Rum
1 oz Coffee Liqueur
1 oz Soda Water
Review: Refreshing with a nice kick. The spiced rum and cold brew combination is perfect for a lighter, effervescent drink.
Unique and Other Spirits-Based
Decaf Espresso Martini
21g->40g Decaf Espresso
1.5 oz Light/Floral Whisky
0.75 oz Good Coffee Liqueur
0.25-0.5 oz Simple or Maple Syrup
Review: Surprisingly light and flavorful. The floral whisky and maple syrup add a delightful twist to the classic espresso martini.
Honey and Falernum Espresso Martini
1.25 oz Mr. Black
0.75 oz Velvet Falernum
0.5 oz Honey Simple
Review: Exotic and sweet. The honey and falernum bring a tropical vibe that’s irresistible. A unique twist on the traditional.
Coconut Rum Espresso Martini
1.5 oz Grey Goose
0.75 oz Espresso
0.50 oz St. George Coffee Liqueur
0.50 oz Don Q Coconut Rum
0.25 oz Demerara Syrup
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
2 dashes Fee Foam
Review: A tropical delight with a coffee twist. The coconut rum adds a lovely sweetness that’s perfectly balanced by the bitters.
House Cold Brew Espresso Martini
2 oz House Cold Brew (double brewed regular coffee)
1 oz Mario’s Espresso Liqueur
0.5 oz Baileys
0.5 oz Amaretto
0.5 oz Frangelico
Review: Rich, nutty, and wonderfully complex. The combination of amaretto and Frangelico with cold brew is pure genius.
Non-Alcoholic
Sorry, the coffee machine is broken.
The simplest drink ever – no machines, no stuff needed, and super easy. Great for nap time instead of cocktail time!
Review: This a clever reminder that sometimes things don’t go as planned, but it’s all part of the adventure.
Everything You Need to Make These Drinks
Creating these espresso martinis requires a few key pieces of equipment, notably a good espresso machine. If you’re in the market for one, check out our guide to the best espresso machines under $500 for affordable options that don’t compromise on quality.
Base Spirits
Coffee Components
Liqueurs & Sweeteners
Cream & Mixers
Extras
Note: Remember, you don’t need all these ingredients for a single drink. Each recipe calls for a specific combination, so pick what you need based on the espresso martini variation you’re making.
How to make these espresso martini
Step 1
Choose Your Base Spirit: Start by selecting your base spirit from options like whiskey/bourbon for depth, tequila for a smooth twist, rum for warmth and tropical vibes, or mezcal for a unique smoky note.
Step 2
Prepare Your Coffee: Brew a fresh shot of espresso or prepare a cold brew concentrate. Allow the coffee to cool to room temperature to prevent melting the ice too quickly.
Step 3
Mix Your Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the base spirit with the espresso or cold brew, adding any additional liqueurs, syrups, or creams as per your chosen recipe.
Step 4
Shake It Up: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also adds a frothy texture to the martini.
Step 5
Strain and Garnish: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with coffee beans, chocolate shavings, or a citrus twist to enhance the flavor and presentation of your espresso martini.