9 Creative Espresso Martini Variations: Classic and Unique Recipes

August 02, 2024 by

The Espresso Martini is a modern classic, created in the 1980s by legendary British bartender Dick Bradsell. The story goes that a customer wanted a drink with enough kick to shake off some late-night cobwebs. The result? A delicious combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso, topped with a layer of crema and three coffee beans symbolizing health, wealth and happiness.

Today, this bold and sophisticated cocktail is still a popular after-dinner favorite thanks to its rich coffee flavor and smooth, velvety texture. It has also inspired a wide variety of Espresso Martini variations. Here are a few of our favorites.

1. Hazelnut Espresso Martini

Two Hazelnut Espresso Martinis

You can give your Espresso Martini a nutty twist with a gorgeous hazelnut liqueur which adds a lovely warmth and irresistible flavor. This showstopper of a drink is easy to shake up and makes the perfect indulgence for special occasions.

Make it with: Frangelico

2. Parmesan Espresso Martini

Looking for creative Espresso Martini recipes with an umami kick? Then you’ve got to try the Parmesan Espresso Martini. Adding a grating of Parmesan cheese to a cocktail might sound like a wild idea, but cheese and coffee is actually a great combo Go on, be a little adventurous!

Make it with: SKYY Vodka

More savory goodness: Exploring Umami Cocktails

3. Mezpresso Martini

If you’re into Espresso Martini variations for summer, you’ve got to try this tropical twist. To make a Mezpresso Martini, add 1.5 oz mezcal, 1.5 oz cold brew, 0.75 oz banana liqueur, 0.75 oz coffee cordial, 0.5 oz agave nectar, and two dashes of bitters to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until frosty and serve in a chilled Martini glass.

Make it with: Montelobos Mezcal

Also see: 10 Beautiful Banana Liqueur Cocktails

4. Mocha Martini

Arguably the best Espresso Martini for chocolate lovers, the Mocha Martini bridges the delectable gap between the Espresso Martini and Chocolate Martini. To make one, add 2 oz chocolate liqueur, 2 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz vodka, and 0.5 oz milk or milk substitute to an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake until frosty, strain into a Martini glass, and serve.

5. Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini

If you love your flavored Espresso Martinis with a bit of zest, we highly recommend the Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini. To make one, add 1.5 oz orange-flavored vodka, 0.5 oz creme de cacao, 0.5 oz coffee liqueur, and 1 oz fresh espresso to a cocktail shaker with ice. Fine strain into a chilled glass to serve.

Make it with: SKYY Infusions Citrus

Also see: The Best Grand Marnier Cocktails & Dessert Recipes

6. Cold Brew Martini

Try this Cold Brew Martini if you’re a fan of shortcuts that don’t skimp on flavor. To make one, add 2 oz cold brew concentrate, 2 oz coffee liqueur, and 2 oz vodka to an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously, decant into a chilled Martini glass and thank us later.

7. Aperitivo Espresso

Looking for an Espresso Martini that’s a great pre-dinner serve? Meet the Aperitivo Espresso, bestie! To make one of these fizzy beauties, add 1 oz vodka and 1 oz coffee to a wine glass over ice. Top it off with 1.5 oz tonic water, add an orange twist, and serve.

You might also like: 26 Types of Martinis You Should Know

8. Espresso Daiquiri

Love Espresso Martini flavors, but want to try rum as your base? The good news is that you totally can by making an Espresso Daiquiri! To make one, add 1.5 oz rum, 1 oz fresh espresso, and 0.5 oz simple syrup to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until well combined, and fine strain into a chilled coupe glass.

Make it with: Appleton Estate Rum

9. The Benevolent

Make an Espresso Martini laced with tequila for some Mexican swagger! To make The Benevolent cocktail, add 1.5 oz blanco tequila, 0.5 oz simple syrup, 0.5 oz Averna, 1 oz cold brew coffee, 1 egg white, and a dash of bitters to an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake until frosty, strain into a chilled glass and enjoy.

Make it with: Espolòn Tequila Blanco

Expert tips and techniques

Achieving the perfect frothy top

To get that signature frothy top, use freshly brewed espresso. The fresher the coffee, the more crema you’ll get out of it. Shake the cocktail vigorously in a shaker with ice to aerate the mixture and get a beautiful, velvety foam. To serve, strain into a chilled glass, and you’ll have a perfectly frothy top every time.

Best types of coffee to use

Choosing the right coffee is key to nailing different Espresso Martini variations. For a classic, rich flavor, go for a medium to dark roast, which brings out deeper, more intense coffee notes. If you’re experimenting with lighter, fruity variations, try a less intense roast to highlight the coffee’s natural acidity and fruity undertones. Cold brew is also a great option for a smoother, less acidic taste.

Balancing sweetness and bitterness

Getting the balance just right between sweetness and bitterness is key for making a perfect Espresso Martini. If your drink is too bitter, try adding a touch more coffee liqueur or simple syrup. You can also play around with flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel for something a little different. Remember, the right amount of sweetness should complement the bitterness of the coffee, setting the scene for a harmonious and satisfying sip.

Garnishing ideas

Elevate your Espresso Martini with eye-catching garnishes. The classic garnish is three coffee beans, but there are plenty of creative ways to top your cocktail and add more flavor.

Add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and a fresh aroma. Chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder can add a sweet, indulgent touch.

A twist of orange peel adds a citrusy zing.

For a unique twist, use flavored syrups to create delicate patterns or swirls on top of the foam.

Pairing suggestions

Chocolate desserts: Pair with rich chocolate torte, brownies, or dark chocolate mousse for a decadent experience that pairs perfectly with the espresso and cocoa flavors.

Tiramisu: The classic coffee-flavored Italian dessert complements the espresso notes in the Martini, creating a deliciously cohesive taste experience.

Cheese plate: Enjoy with bold, aged cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese; the cocktail’s bitterness contrasts nicely with the cheese’s creamy texture.

Almond biscotti: A light and crunchy pairing that highlights the cocktail’s coffee flavors without overwhelming the palate.

Vanilla panna cotta: The creamy, subtle sweetness of panna cotta balances the boldness of the Espresso Martini, creating a delightful contrast that you’ll love

There you have it – our insider collection of top Espresso Martini variations, along with a few insights on making it like a pro (even if you are a complete noob!). Sign up for our newsletter to receive more inspiration each month and visit the SKYY Vodka website for more cocktail tips and tricks.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

If you want to get that signature frothy top on your Espresso Martini, use freshly brewed espresso and shake the cocktail vigorously in a shaker with ice for at least 30 seconds. The fresh espresso helps create crema, while the vigorous shaking aerates the mixture, resulting in a smooth, frothy foam. Using a shaker with a spring coil or a fine mesh strainer can further enhance the frothiness of your cocktail.

For a classic Espresso Martini, medium to dark roast coffee is ideal, as it brings out deep, rich flavors that complement the vodka and coffee liqueur. If you prefer a lighter, more acidic taste, opt for a light roast, which highlights the coffee's fruity notes. Cold brew coffee is another great choice, offering a smoother, less acidic profile. Always use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor and crema.