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Espresso Martini Recipe: Wake Up and Shake It Up!

By Sofia MertinezzPublished 4 months ago 4 min read

"Imagine this: It’s a Friday night. You want to party, but your brain screams for coffee, and your soul whispers for a cocktail. What if I told you, you can have both? Enter the Espresso Martini — the cocktail that slaps you awake and simultaneously makes you feel like a sophisticated night owl.

A Little History Before We Shake Things Up

The Espresso Martini was invented by the legendary bartender Dick Bradsell in London, 1983. Legend has it, a supermodel asked for something that would ""wake me up and then f*** me up."" Dick blended together vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup and shook the world of cocktails forever.

Why You’ll Love This Cocktail

1) It’s smooth and rich with the boldness of fresh espresso

2) The coffee aroma is heavenly, making it a sensory delight

3) It’s deceptively strong, so sip wisely!

The Ultimate Espresso Martini Recipe (Milliliters Edition)

Ready to impress your friends or just treat yourself like a king or queen of the night? Here’s your go-to recipe:

1) 50 ml Vodka (go for a quality one, this cocktail deserves it)

2) 30 ml Freshly brewed espresso (hot, then cooled)

3) 20 ml Coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)

4) 10 ml Simple syrup (adjust if you like it sweeter)

Instructions:

1) Brew your espresso fresh. The better the coffee, the better the martini.

2) Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.

3) Pour vodka, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup into the shaker.

4) Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. You want that creamy froth on top.

5) Strain into a chilled martini glass.

6) Garnish with 3 coffee beans (classic touch) right on top.

Voilà! You’ve just made a cocktail that’s as energizing as it is indulgent.

Pro Tips From Behind the Bar

1) Use espresso beans instead of regular coffee for the freshest taste.

2) Double strain if you want an extra smooth finish (no ice shards).

3) Experiment with a dash of vanilla extract or chocolate bitters for a twist.

The Espresso Martini Experience

Taking that first sip is like being wrapped in a cozy espresso blanket while getting a cheeky punch of vodka that says, “Let’s party!” It’s perfect as a nightcap or a party starter and works beautifully paired with dark chocolate or a rich dessert.

Think of it as your classy caffeine boost with a boozy kiss on the cheek.

Wrapping It Up

The Espresso Martini is not just a cocktail; it’s a mood, it’s an attitude. It’s for the lovers of coffee who dare to dance with vodka till dawn. Whether you’re a cocktail newbie or a seasoned shaker, this recipe is your ticket to an elegant and exhilarating night.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab that shaker, brew that espresso, and shake up your evening with a Espresso Martini that’s bound to be the life of your night!"The Espresso Martini is a cocktail that perfectly balances the robustness of freshly brewed espresso with the smooth bite of vodka and the sweetness of coffee liqueur, all shaken to a frothy finish that delights the senses. Its origins trace back to the early 1980s London bar scene, where creativity met the demand for a drink that could energize and intoxicate simultaneously. Making one at home is surprisingly simple, requiring quality ingredients and a confident shake. This cocktail shines not only because of its bold flavors but also due to its versatility and the luxurious experience it offers with each sip. Whether you

re looking to kickstart your night or impress guests, the Espresso Martini provides that perfect blend of sophistication and excitement. For those craving a twist on the classic, check out this intriguing variation that adds a splash of orange to your coffee cocktail experience espresso orange margarita inspiration

"Variations to Keep the Fun Brewing

The classic Espresso Martini is fantastic, but sometimes you want to mix things up. Here are some playful spins:

1) Baileys Espresso Martini: Add 20 ml of Baileys Irish Cream to the classic recipe for a creamy, dreamy texture.

2) Tequila Espresso Martini: Swap vodka for 50 ml of tequila for a Mexican kick.

3) Vegan Espresso Martini: Use a plant-based coffee liqueur and agave syrup instead of simple syrup.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

1) Serve in a chilled coupe or martini glass for that sleek look.

2) Garnish with a twist of orange peel or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra flair.

3) Pair with chocolate desserts, biscotti, or even spicy snacks to complement the coffee notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1) Don’t use stale coffee; freshly brewed espresso is your best friend.

2) Avoid over-sweetening; balance is key.

3) Shaking too gently will leave you without that iconic creamy foam on top.

Final Sip

The Espresso Martini isn’t just a drink, it’s an experience — part coffee fix, part cocktail charm, and all-around crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re at a buzzing bar or your own kitchen counter, shaking up this beauty is always a winning move. So next time you need a pick-me-up with a kick, you know exactly what to do. Cheers to nights full of energy, laughter, and perfectly crafted cocktails!

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About the Creator

Sofia Mertinezz

A renowned cocktail mixologist and the owner of a popular speakeasy-style bar in the French Quarter. Her innovative approach to classic cocktails has earned her a loyal following.

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