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Smooth Espresso Martini

This rich and velvety cocktail blends fresh espresso with a hint of sweetness and vanilla. It offers a sophisticated balance of bitter and sweet flavors with an energizing kick. Created in the 1980s this drink has become a modern classic that is easy to make at home.
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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 1 oz freshly brewed espresso cooled slightly
  • 0.75 oz coffee liqueur such as Kahlua
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • Ice cubes
  • 3 coffee beans for garnish

Equipment

  • Espresso machine or coffee maker
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Jigger or measuring shot glass
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Martini glass

Method
 

  1. Brew the espresso fresh and let it cool for a few minutes before using.
  2. Pour the vodka espresso coffee liqueur and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes to ensure the mixture is properly chilled.
  4. Shake the mixture vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until it is frothy.
  5. Double strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled martini glass.
  6. Garnish the top of the drink with three coffee beans for a classic presentation.

Notes

Chill your martini glass in the freezer ahead of time to keep the cocktail cold.
Use real espresso rather than instant coffee to achieve the best flavor and creamy foam.
The drink should be served immediately as the foam layer will settle quickly over time.
You can substitute dark rum or bourbon for the vodka to create a different flavor profile.
If using cold brew coffee instead of espresso shake the mixture longer to help develop foam.