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Make Me a Cocktail

Espresso Martini
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.87 / 5

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The Espresso Martini is a modern classic that sits at the crossroads of cocktail culture and coffeehouse energy. You’ll often... ... more

The Espresso Martini is a modern classic that sits at the crossroads of cocktail culture and coffeehouse energy. You’ll often hear it traced back to late-1980s London, where bartender Dick Bradsell is credited with creating a vodka-and-espresso pick-me-up that later evolved into the now-familiar formula. While it isn’t a true martini in the traditional sense, its sleek cocktail-glass serve and crisp, spirit-forward profile helped it become a go-to after-dinner order and a nightlife staple.

Expect a bold coffee hit up front from the fresh shot of coffee, with coffee liqueur deepening that roast character and adding a smooth, sweet edge. Vodka keeps the drink clean and direct, letting the coffee notes lead without adding extra flavour of its own. The simple syrup rounds everything out, softening bitterness and giving the finish a glossy, dessert-like richness.

This is the drink you reach for when you want something that feels both indulgent and energising. It suits late evenings, post-dinner moments, and any occasion where you want a cocktail that reads sophisticated but tastes instantly familiar—especially if you love coffee-forward drinks with a crisp, spirited backbone.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink
15 key ingredients
Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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Coffee
Calories
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220 calories
Alcohol content
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22.61% | 2.6 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

Tags

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Christmas cocktail
Coffee ingredient icon
Coffee cocktails
Coffee liqueur ingredient icon
Top ten Coffee liqueur cocktails
Coffee ingredient icon
Top ten Coffee cocktails

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
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+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

Vodka lays a clean base for the coffee shot’s roasted bitterness, while coffee liqueur deepens it with sweet, mocha-like richness and simple syrup rounds the edges into a glossy, dessert-leaning sip. It works because the syrup and liqueur soften the coffee’s bite without burying it, making it ideal for coffee lovers who want a boozy nightcap with a brisk kick.

Method
How to make a Espresso Martini

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Vodka 50ml, Coffee liqueur 30ml, Sugar / simple syrup 10ml, Coffee 1 shot
Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice
Shake vigorously; it should be somewhat frothy
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve
~ Depending on your palette you may wish to add a little sugar syrup to the mix before shaking. ~

Power tips
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Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor. The fresher the coffee, the bolder and more vibrant the taste.
Shake the cocktail extra vigorously to create a perfect frothy foam on the top, making for a more visually appealing and texturally pleasant experience.
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Espresso Martini masterclass

Master the craft of the Espresso Martini cocktail with one of our cocktail deep dive masterclasses

History of the Espresso Martini

Before the advent of Vodka Redbull, a different concoction emerged as the go-to drink for those look...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the Espresso Martini?

The Espresso Martini was created in the late 1980s by London bartender Dick Bradsell. According to legend, a young woman asked for a drink that would 'wake me up, and then f*** me up.' Bradsell, who was working at the Soho Brasserie at the time, combined vodka with espresso to create what would become the Espresso Martini.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I make an Espresso Martini without a coffee machine?

Yes, you can make an Espresso Martini without a coffee machine by using strong, cold brew coffee or a concentrated instant coffee solution as a substitute for the espresso shot. The key is to ensure the coffee is rich and strong enough to mimic the flavor and texture of espresso.

Ingredient specifics icon

What type of vodka is best for an Espresso Martini?

For an Espresso Martini, it's best to use a high-quality, smooth vodka to complement the robust flavors of the coffee. A premium, neutral-flavored vodka is often recommended as it allows the rich coffee flavor to shine through without overpowering the drink.

Faq icon

How can I achieve the signature frothy top of an Espresso Martini?

The signature frothy top of an Espresso Martini is achieved by shaking the cocktail vigorously with ice. The shaking process emulsifies the natural oils and proteins in the coffee, creating a smooth and frothy layer on top of the drink. Make sure to shake for at least 15 seconds to achieve the best froth.

Customization ideas icon

Can I customize my Espresso Martini?

Absolutely! While the classic Espresso Martini recipe includes coffee liqueur, vodka, sugar syrup, and coffee, you can customize it by adjusting the ratios to suit your taste or by adding additional flavors like vanilla, caramel, or even a splash of cream for a richer texture. Experimenting with different types of coffee can also alter its taste and strength.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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