Easy Espresso Martini Recipe – Shake Up This Classic Cocktail Tonight

Okay, I won’t start with an argument about whether it is REALLY a martini, but there are plenty of variations and ways to enjoy this pick-me-up that mixes two of our favourite drinks—coffee and vodka!!

So What’s Really Involved in an Espresso Martini?

A cold, coffee-flavored cocktail credited to bartender Dick Bradsell – apparently requested by a prestigious female client who asked for something to “wake her up and f*&% her up“. It’s a real party starter based on coffee and vodka, shaken and drunk straight up in a martini cocktail glass.

You may also hear this cocktail, perhaps more correctly, called a Vodka Espresso.

The key to a successful Espresso Martini (other than perhaps keeping your guests awake!) is the perfect balance of spirits and a lovely creamy froth on top. There are, of course, variations in quantities, like all our cocktail suggestions, you can try to suit your pallet and appearance.

It can be equally great as an introduction to the evening – a pick me up before the party starts – as it is a nightcap.

They are incredibly moreish but also strong, so they are not something you can nurse all evening, but they are definitely one of our dinner party favourites.

So however you like it, or whatever legend you believe, here’s our absolute classic recipe for Espresso Martini, then let’s take a deeper look at variations and how to improve your concoction, certain to sprite up a party!

Tools You Will Need to Make an Espresso Martini

• Espresso coffee maker – coffee grinds or coffee pods
• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Martini glasses to serve

Print

Espresso Martini Recipe Variations

There is so much fun you can have adapting this recipe to your personal tastes.

Decaf Martini

This is the most obvious variation, especially when you have your Espresso Martini as a nightcap. We have not found any difference in taste or texture using decaf pods.

Tia Maria

Tia Maria is also a coffee liqueur; you may split potions between Kahlua and Tia Maria, but you may want to balance the use of both with more vodka.

Sweeten It Up? Add Sugar Syrup

It’s super simple to make sugar syrup: one part golden caster sugar and one part boiling water. Those with a sweet tooth or who would normally add sugar to their coffee will like this adaptation. Depending on the size of your glass, you may need to adjust other quantities accordingly.

Mocha Martini?

Ooooh, yes, this is definitely one for your sweet tooth or non-coffee lover. Substitute the coffee liqueur for a dark chocolate liqueur. As another variant, you can top it with a marshmallow and even rub chocolate shavings around the rim.

Problems in Making Your Espresso Martini

The most common complaint is there’s not enough froth. A perfectly layered espresso martini will be finished off with a velvety layer of froth of about 1/4 of an inch.

The lack of froth upon straining probably means you have not shaken your espresso martini enough. We are not looking for a vigorous shake it, but it definitely needs a little elbow work. If your first batch lacks the froth, try shaking for 30 seconds longer next time

So Why is There Controversy About Calling it a Martini?

The classics call for a martini made from gin. We’ve tried it with gin, and hmm, no, this isn’t one that you can adapt. The botanical goodness of gin simply doesn’t work with the bitterness of coffee.

The shape of the glass, too, may be variable. A classic martini should be served in a V-shape glass, but even we’ve been guilty of using a wine or coupe glass, anything on hand, really!

Do you have a favourite Espresso Martini recipe or adaption? Let us know in the comments below!

• Catch more of our favorite coffee recipes here; from espresso pick-me-ups and iced treats to coffee flavored desserts you can’t resist!

Little Party Pixie advocates quality over quantity. Always drink responsibly!

© Little Party Pixie 2025