How to make an Espresso Martini: A Smooth Coffee Cocktail with a Twist

What Is an Espresso Martini? 

An Espresso Martini is a modern classic that combines vodka, coffee liqueur, freshly brewed espresso, and a touch of sweetness. It's smooth, bold, and topped with a creamy foam, a drink that's both a treat and a pick-me-up.

You don’t need a fancy coffee machine to make one of these, just use any of Little’s instant.

But if you do have a home espresso machine, start with high-quality beans like those from Roastworks, known for their rich and balanced espresso blends.

Why It's a Favourite

• Quick to make - Just a few ingredients and a good shake.
• Packed with flavour - Strong coffee with a buzz.
• Visually stunning - The frothy top and coffee bean garnish make it a looker.
  

Classic Espresso Martini Recipe

Ingredients (for one glass):

• 60 ml (2 oz) vodka
  
• 15 ml (½ oz) coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa or Mr. Black)
  
• 30 ml (1 oz) coffee
  
• 15 ml (½ oz) simple syrup (or adjust to taste)
  
• Ice
  
• 3 coffee beans (optional for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Cocktail shaker
  
• Strainer
  
• Martini/coupe glass
  
• Espresso machine or capsule machine (or a mug and some hot water if you don’t have either)
  
• Measuring jigger
  

Steps:

1. Make the coffee. If you’re using instant coffee, mix a couple of spoonfuls with some hot water. If you’re using coffee capsules, pop your favourite in your machine and hit the button. If you’re using a home espresso machine, brew your espresso as usual. Let your chosen coffee cool slightly.
   
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
   
3. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso and syrup.
   
4. Shake well for about 15 seconds or until frothy.
   
5. Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
   
6. Top with 3 coffee beans.
   

Tips for the Best Espresso Martini

• Shake well - That's how you get that signature foamy top.
  
• Use strong coffee - Instant and capsules work just fine, but cold brew or freshly brewed espresso shots are best. Try something bold like The Uprising from Roastworks.
• Adjust the sweetness - More or less syrup, depending on your taste.
  
• Why 3 beans? - They stand for health, wealth, and happiness.
  

Cool Variations to Try

• Nutty Amaretto Twist
  Swap out some vodka for amaretto - adds a warm, nutty note.
  
• Creamy Baileys Martini
  Replace the syrup with Baileys Irish Cream for a smooth, dessert-style cocktail.
  
• Citrus Edge
  Add a strip of orange or lemon peel when shaking to lift the coffee flavour.
• Coffee-Infused Vodka
  Steep Roastworks beans in vodka overnight for a deeper coffee hit. Shake as usual.
  

A Bit of History

The Espresso Martini is a modern icon with a rock 'n' roll origin story. It was first mixed in the late 1980s by legendary London bartender Dick Bradsell at the Soho Brasserie. According to cocktail lore, a young model (widely rumoured to be Kate Moss or Naomi Campbell) asked Bradsell for a drink that would "wake me up, and then mess me up."

With a coffee machine right next to his bar station, Bradsell pulled a fresh espresso shot, added vodka and coffee liqueur, shook it hard with ice and poured out what would become one of the most beloved cocktails of the era. Originally called the Vodka Espresso, it later became known as the Espresso Martini - even though it's not technically a martini (no gin or vermouth involved).

Its popularity boomed in the 1990s, riding the wave of vodka’s dominance and a growing café culture. Today, it's a staple on cocktail menus around the world - part caffeine hit, part cocktail, all class.

Espresso Martini FAQs

Can I make it without vodka?
Yes, swap vodka for dark rum or even tequila for a unique twist.

Can I make it ahead of time?
You can pre-brew espresso and even pre-mix the booze. Just shake fresh with ice right before serving.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?
Yes! Use cold brew, a touch of vanilla syrup, and a drizzle of cream or oat milk. No alcohol, still delicious.

Final Sip

The Espresso Martini is classy, easy, and tastes like a coffee shop and cocktail bar had a baby. Whether you’re making it for guests or treating yourself after dinner, just make sure you’re using high-quality coffee from Little’s, or if you’re into beans, we recommend Roastworks.