This Cinnamon Espresso Martini takes the classic clinker and adds a cozy twist, blending rich espresso with warm, spiced flavors for a smooth and satisfying experience. Perfect for when you’re in the mood to serve something bold and a little indulgent, it’s a drink that combines daring flavors in a beautifully unexpected way.
Cinnamon Espresso Martini
PREP TIME 2 min
QUICK TIPS
INSTRUCTIONS
01
1.
Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
02
2.
Shake until frosty
03
3.
Fine strain into a coupe glass
04
4.
Garnish with three espresso beans, and serve
Why add cinnamon to an Espresso Martini?
Cinnamon adds an inviting warmth that perfectly complements the rich, bold flavors of espresso. It gives this cocktail a hint of spice, making it ideal for cooler weather or cozy evenings. The subtle cinnamon flavor rounds out the espresso’s bitterness and enhances the cocktail’s complexity, creating a balanced drink that goes beyond the classic Espresso Martini.
Also see: 9 Creative Espresso Martini Variations
How to make cinnamon simple syrup
Making your own cinnamon simple syrup is straightforward and adds a lovely, homemade touch to this cocktail. In a small saucepan, combine one cup of water with one cup of granulated sugar, stirring over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves. Then, add two to three cinnamon sticks and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the cinnamon to infuse the syrup fully.
Once it’s done simmering, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature. Finally, remove the cinnamon sticks and pour the syrup into a clean jar or bottle for storage. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, keeping it handy for future cocktails or even as a flavorful addition to coffee and tea.
Learn more: The Complete Guide to Simple Syrups
What’s the story behind Amaro Averna?
Amaro Averna is an iconic Italian liqueur crafted in Sicily in 1868. Known for its unique blend of herbs, roots, and citrus, it offers a bittersweet profile with hints of licorice, orange, and a touch of spice. Adding just a quarter-ounce of Averna to your Cinnamon Espresso Martini introduces a layer of herbal depth that enhances the drink’s overall character. It’s a little nod to Italian tradition in a modern cocktail.
Also see: Cocktail Recipes & Guide to the Italian Amaro
More drinks to try if you love a Cinnamon Espresso Martini
- Coffee Negroni: This cocktail brings together the robust bitterness of a Negroni with the bold flavor of espresso. The result is a bittersweet delight, perfect for when you’re craving something with a bit of bite.
- Boulevardier: Similar to a Negroni but made with whiskey, this drink blends whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth for a rich, warming cocktail with a slight sweetness that complements the cinnamon in an espresso martini.
- Americano: A lighter option made with Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water. It’s bubbly, easy to sip, and perfect for casual gatherings when you want a lower ABV alternative.
- Hot Toddy: This warm cocktail blends whiskey with honey, lemon, and spices for a cozy, comforting drink—ideal for chilly days or as a nightcap.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Definitely! If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, a mason jar with a secure lid works as a great substitute. Just be sure to strain the drink through a fine-mesh sieve to catch any ice shards and ensure a smooth pour.
An espresso machine will give you the most authentic flavor, but a Moka pot or even strong coffee from a French press can work in a pinch. If you’re using instant espresso powder, just make sure to mix it up a bit stronger than usual to stand up to the other bold ingredients in this cocktail.
