This delicious coffee cocktail is easy to make at home with vodka, Kahlúa, and a touch of simple syrup. Discover the drink's surprising 1980s London origin and learn how to cool your espresso for a perfect frothy finish.
We recently told you about a couple of Vanderpumpers that helped Chili's create a tequila twist on the espresso martini - but what about the original classic? The Espresso Martini is a delightful mix of coffee, vodka, and sweetness that has become a global favorite for those looking for a caffeine kick with their cocktail. Unlike many classic drinks with long and storied pasts, the Espresso Martini is a relative newcomer, invented in London in the 1980s.
The story goes a young model approached bartender Dick Bradsell at his Soho bar, requesting a drink that would wake her up and still give her a buzz - what she really said was allegedly a little more colorful but this here's a family show. The result? The Espresso Martini.
While the story may have had some bartop embellishment, there's no doubt the drink perfectly captured the essence of the time - a potent mix of sophistication, luxury, and playful energy.
Making an Espresso Martini at home is pretty simple. Here's what you need to do.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Vodka: Any will do, but we like Black Cow for its silky finish.
- 1 ounce Coffee Liqueur: We go with Kahlúa here for its sweetness.
- 1-ounce fresh Espresso: This is the heart of the drink, so you can use the pre-ground stuff, but if you really want it to pop, grind fresh beans first. In the event you don't have an espresso maker bottled is fine.
- 1/2 ounce Simple Syrup: Simple syrup helps balance the bitterness of the coffee and the vodka's heat.
- Coffee Beans (for garnish): Three roasted espresso beans are the traditional garnish, but a dusting of cocoa powder can also add a nice touch.
DIRECTIONS
Cooling Down Your Coffee
Because a hot espresso will melt the ice and dilute your drink, it's crucial to have your coffee chilled before you start mixing. Here are two methods to achieve this:
- The Ice Bath: Pour your freshly brewed espresso into a shallow dish and place it in a larger bowl filled with ice and water. Stir the espresso frequently until it's cold, about 5 minutes.
- The Freezer Method: If you're short on time, you can prepare your coffee in advance. Pour your espresso into a freezer-safe container and place it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. Don't let it freeze completely, though!
Shaking Up Perfection
- Chill Your Glass: Place a martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes before you begin. A cold glass ensures your drink stays perfectly chilled.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, chilled espresso, and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake it Up!: Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. You want the outside of your shaker to feel frosty and a good layer of frothy crema to develop on the inside.
- Strain and Serve: Strain your martini into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish: Top your masterpiece with three coffee beans and sip on your delightful creation.
Tips:
- For a creamier drink, add a bar spoon of Baileys Irish Cream to your shaker.
- If you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can use a tightly sealed jar.
- No espresso? You can substitute cold brew coffee in a pinch, but freshly brewed espresso is always best.
With its perfect balance of coffee, sweetness, and vodka, the Espresso Martini is a surefire way to perk up your night! So next time, you need an energy boost with a touch of sophistication.
