Espresso Martini: the creamy coffee cocktail

The Espresso Martini is a popular cocktail that emerged in the 1980s. This energetic and sophisticated drink is distinguished by the smoothness of vodka and the sweetness of coffee liqueur. All the ingredients are mixed in a shaker with ice, resulting in a popular drink choice.

Ingredients
Vodka
Coffee liqueur
Coffee
Nutritional Profile
Calories
239 per serving
Alcohol content
23% alcohol by volume (ABV)

Aged Grappa Espresso Martini

The Aged Grappa Espresso Martini uses aged Grappa instead of vodka, and includes brown sugar syrup.

Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini

The Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini includes orange vodka instead of pure vodka, and Creme de Cacao.

Double Black

The Double Black uses spiced cocoa and coffee rum instead of vodka and adds chocolate shavings.

Espresso Martiki

An Espresso Martiki uses gold rum instead of vodka and includes sugar syrup instead of coffee liqueur.

Espresso Rumtini

The only difference between the Espresso Martini and the Espresso Rumtini is that the latter uses rum gold instead of vodka.

Flying Frenchman

The Flying Frenchman uses absinthe instead of vodka.

Grappa Espresso Martini

The Grappa Espresso Martini uses unaged grappa instead of vodka, and includes brown sugar syrup.

Italian Chocolate Martini

The Italian Chocolate Martini uses amaro liqueur instead of vodka.

Jalisco Espresso

The difference between an Espresso Martini and a Jalisco Espresso is that the latter uses blanco tequila instead of vodka.

Jolt’ini

The Jolt'ini uses vanilla vodka instead of pure vodka and includes vanilla syrup.

Lazarus

A Lazarus includes brandy in addition to the ingredients of the Espresso Martini.

Mocha Martini

The Mocha Martini uses bourbon whiskey instead of vodka, and replaces coffee liqueur with Irish cream liqueur, adding Creme de Cacao.

Can you use coffee other than espresso?

Although espresso coffee is traditionally used for an Espresso Martini, it can be made with other types of coffee, such as strong coffee or even cold brew.

Is it necessary to add sugar to an Espresso Martini?

Adding sugar is optional and depends on personal preferences. Some people like the extra sweetness from sugar, while others prefer the drink without it.

Can you make an Espresso Martini without a coffee machine?

Yes, it is possible to prepare the cocktail using coffee from a local cafe or even quality instant coffee.

What is the best type of vodka for an Espresso Martini?

Any quality vodka works well in an Espresso Martini. A vodka that is enjoyed on its own will always pair well in the cocktail.

Can you make an Espresso Martini without coffee liqueur?

Coffee liqueur is a traditional part of the Espresso Martini and contributes to its characteristic flavour. However, it can be substituted with another coffee liqueur or even omitted, though the final result may be differ.

Can you add other ingredients to an Espresso Martini?

While an Espresso Martini is traditionally made with vodka, espresso and coffee liqueur, experimenting with different variations is possible.