How to Make an Espresso Martini Cocktail – A Bold Modern Classic
Paul Cooper
Information
5 min
Medium to Strong
1 cocktail
Vodka-based Cocktail
London, 1980s
A Brief History of the Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini was created in the 1980s by legendary London bartender Dick Bradsell at the Soho Brasserie. Asked to craft a drink that would “wake me up, then mess me up,” he combined vodka, fresh espresso, and coffee liqueur to create a cocktail that’s now a modern classic. Served with a signature crema and three coffee beans for good luck, the Espresso Martini is stylish, energising, and unforgettable.
Ingredients
40ml vodka
20ml coffee liqueur (e.g. KahlĂşa)
30ml freshly brewed espresso (cooled)
10ml sugar syrup (adjust to taste)
Ice
3 coffee beans (for garnish)
Equipment You’ll Need
Boston shaker
Hawthorne strainer
Fine mesh strainer
Jigger
Coupe or martini glass
Ice scoop
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Method
Step 1 - Brew the Espresso
Prepare a fresh espresso shot and allow it to cool slightly so it doesn’t melt the ice too quickly.
Step 2 - Add Ingredients to Shaker
Combine vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and sugar syrup in a Boston shaker.
Step 3 - Shake Well with Ice
Add plenty of ice and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds to create the signature foam.
Step 4 - Double Strain into Glass
Using a Hawthorne and fine mesh strainer, pour into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
Step 5 - Serve and Sip
Place three coffee beans on top of the creamy surface and serve immediately. No straw - just sip and enjoy.
Cocktail Recipe
The Espresso Martini Cocktail is all about balance - a bold hit of espresso, softened by sweet liqueur and rounded out with vodka. It’s the perfect pick-me-up for after dinner or anytime you’re after a rich, modern classic.
Learn how to shake up your Espresso Martini Cocktail with ease using premium tools from BarBits.co.uk.
