From Coffee to Cocktail: Make the Best Espresso Martini Ever
Velvety, caffeinated, and just the right amount of richness—the Espresso Martini is more than a drink. It’s a story in a glass. Born from a cheeky request at a London bar and rising to global fame, this cocktail has become a go-to for those who love their coffee with a kick and their cocktails with character.
The good news? You don’t need a bartender’s badge to pull it off. Just the right recipe—and a bit of shake. Let’s start there.
The Espresso Martini Recipe That Just Works
Ingredients (makes one cocktail):
- 40 ml vodka (choose a smooth, neutral one)
- 25 ml freshly brewed espresso
- 20 ml coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa or Mr Black)
- Optional: 5–10 ml sugar syrup (depending on your sweetness preference)
- Ice
- Garnish: 3 coffee beans for the classic look
Instructions:
- Brew your espresso and shake it within two minutes. You can even shake it alone first to help build foam. Let it cool slightly—but don’t let it sit too long
- Pack your shaker with plenty of ice
- Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and sugar syrup (if using)
- Shake it well—for at least 15 seconds. That’s what creates the smooth, creamy foam on top
- Pour the drink through a strainer into a cold martini glass
- Float 3 coffee beans on the foam for that signature finish
That’s it. Simple, bold, and surprisingly easy to fall in love with.
How to Get That Espresso Martini Foam
That thick, velvety foam isn’t just for looks—it’s part of the whole sensory experience. And while it feels fancy, it’s really just science and timing. It’s the reward for fresh espresso, a fast shake, and the right technique.
Don’t let your coffee sit—get it into the shaker within two minutes while it’s still active. Add lots of ice—it cools the drink and helps trap air for better foam. Shake hard for 15–20 seconds—like your drink depends on it (because it does). The combination of cold ice, firm shaking, and a quick pour helps trap the air and oils that create foam.
Fresh espresso brings the oils and air bubbles that make crema possible. Still struggling? Try double straining through a fine mesh sieve for a silky finish.
And remember—darker roasts tend to work better than light ones, thanks to their natural oils.
From 1980s London to Your Kitchen: The Espresso Martini Origin Story
Some cocktails are born in grand hotel bars. Others? In a dimly lit Soho bar, with just the right amount of attitude. Legend has it that in the late 1980s, a fashion model walked into the Soho Brasserie and asked bartender Dick Bradsell for something that would “wake me up, and then mess me up” (the original phrase was a bit stronger, but you get the idea).
Bradsell, always quick to improvise, reached for what he had nearby: vodka, espresso fresh from the machine, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup. He gave it a vigorous shake and served it up in a martini glass. The result was rich, energizing, and just bold enough to become an instant classic.
It started as the Vodka Espresso and eventually settled into Espresso Martini—though it briefly flirted with a few playful names along the way. Not a true martini, technically—but who’s counting when it tastes this good?
Creative Variations Worth Shaking
Once you’ve mastered the classic, it’s time to play. The Espresso Martini is incredibly versatile—whether you’re in the mood for something rich, cozy, or alcohol-free.
Salted Caramel Espresso Martini. Swap the sugar syrup for salted caramel. The result? A dessert-like cocktail that’s rich, smooth, and a little bit luxurious.
Vanilla Espresso Martini. Use vanilla-infused vodka to create a mellow and nostalgic version, perfect for softer palates or early evening sipping.
Mocha Espresso Martini. Add a splash of chocolate liqueur or stir in a bit of cocoa powder. You’ll get a mocha-inspired cocktail with grown-up depth and chocolatey warmth.
Alcohol-Free Espresso Martini. Use cold brew concentrate instead of vodka, and a splash of coffee syrup instead of liqueur. The result is a bold, booze-free twist that still delivers the flavor and foam.
Spiced Espresso Martini. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, or use a syrup infused with cardamom or clove. You’ll have a warm, seasonal version that’s perfect for autumn and winter.
There’s no wrong way to shake it—just find the version that fits your vibe.
One Shot, One Shake, One Perfect Cocktail
The beauty of the Espresso Martini is that it brings the best of both worlds—coffee and cocktails—into one smooth, confident sip. It’s simple enough to make at home, but impressive enough to feel like a treat.
From its cheeky London beginnings to your own kitchen counter, this drink proves that with the right ingredients, a little timing, and a good shake, you don’t need any special skills to serve something memorable.
Whether you’re keeping it classic or giving it your own twist, the Espresso Martini is more than a trend—it’s a ritual worth repeating.