Espresso Martinis - Three ways
Updated: Oct 8
We're taking espresso martinis to the next level with decadent variations that are sure to please! Which one will be your favorite?
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Espresso martinis are having more than just a moment - they're quickly becoming the cocktail that defines 2026 and beyond. Restaurants and bars all have their own spin on this classic - and I have mine, too! And because I love everything coffee, these three recipes are each twist on a classic cafe favorite.
Which one will be your favorite?
Ahhh, coffee. That rich, dark pick-me-up that starts my day, every day. It's no surprise that the espresso martini quickly became my after-dinner cocktail of choice. I'm finding that I try the espresso cocktail at just about every restaurant we visit, as I continue to explore how people are innovating this classic.
I often remind people that a TRUE espresso martini is four simple ingredients: espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur (usually Kahlua), and simple syrup. No dairy is involved, and that creamy finish on the top is the result of vigorous shaking to chill the drink well and create that look. (You also need it to get the coffee beans to float on top!)
But just like most of our favorite coffee orders, many espresso martini recipes are incorporating other liqueurs and cream- (or non-dairy-) based ingredients to create a richer, more flavorful drink. I love the original, but wow, can I throw back a couple of these rich, tasty options, below. So let's look at the Espresso Martini - Three Ways.
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Caramel Macchiato Martini
Ingredients (makes 1 cocktail)
2 oz caramel vodka
1/2 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua)
1 oz brewed espresso (chilled), or 1 oz cold brew concentrate
1 oz Salted Caramel Bailey's
Caramel syrup
Optional: kosher salt, whole coffee beans
Mix it Up
Prep your glass. Drizzle the caramel syrup around the inside of the glass.
Fill a shaker with ice. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso and Bailey's. Shake until well-chilled, about 30 seconds.
Pour into your prepped glass. Finish with a dash of salt and/or add a few coffee beans to the top for presentation.
Raise your glass and toast to the good things in life!
Vanilla Latte Martini
Ingredients (makes 1 cocktail)
2 oz vanilla vodka
1/2 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua)
1 oz brewed espresso (chilled), or 1 oz cold brew concentrate
1 oz vanilla coffee creamer
1/2 oz vanilla syrup
Optional: whole coffee beans
Mix it Up
Fill a shaker with ice. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, coffee creamer and syrup. Shake until well-chilled, about 30 seconds.
Pour into your glass. Add a few coffee beans to the top for presentation.
Enjoy with family and friends!
Note: You may choose a non-dairy creamer, or simply omit the creamer.
Cafe Mocha Martini
Ingredients (makes 1 cocktail)
2 oz vodka
1/2 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua)
1 oz brewed espresso (chilled), or 1 oz cold brew concentrate
1 oz chocolate liqueur (such as Godiva or Mozart)
Chocolate syrup
Optional: whole coffee beans, cocoa powder
Mix it Up
Prep your glass. Drizzle the chocolate syrup around the inside of the glass.
Fill a shaker with ice. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso and chocolate liqueur. Shake until well-chilled, about 30 seconds.
Pour into your prepped glass. Finish with a few coffee beans and/or the cocoa powder for presentation.
Savor the moment!
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