Yields: 1 serving

Prep time: 5 minutes (includes chilling espresso)

Shake time: 20-30 seconds

Ingredients:

Vodka: 2 oz (60 ml) – A good quality, smooth vodka is recommended. Brands like Ketel One, Grey Goose, or Tito's are popular choices.

Coffee Liqueur: 1 oz (30 ml) – Kahlúa is the classic choice, but other coffee liqueurs like Mr. Black (which is often less sweet and more coffee-forward) can also be used.

Freshly Brewed Espresso: 1 oz (30 ml), chilled – This is key for flavor and the signature foam. Allow it to cool to room temperature or briefly chill in the fridge/freezer. Do not use hot espresso as it will melt the ice too quickly and dilute the drink. No espresso machine? You can use strong cold brew concentrate as a substitute, though the foam might be less pronounced.

Simple Syrup (Optional): 1/4 - 1/2 oz (7.5 - 15 ml), or to taste – If you prefer a sweeter cocktail or if your coffee liqueur is less sweet. To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and hot water, stir until dissolved, and let cool.

Ice: Plenty for shaking.

Garnish (Traditional): 3 coffee beans, symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness.

Equipment:

Cocktail shaker

Jigger or measuring tool

Strainer (Hawthorne and a fine-mesh strainer for an extra smooth foam)

Martini glass or coupe, chilled

Instructions:

Chill Your Glass: Place your martini glass or coupe in the freezer for at least 5-10 minutes before making the drink. A chilled glass keeps the cocktail colder for longer.

Prepare Espresso: Brew your espresso and allow it to cool completely. This is crucial for achieving a good chill and proper dilution during shaking.

Combine Ingredients: Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, chilled espresso, and simple syrup (if using) to your cocktail shaker.

Add Ice and Shake Vigorously: Fill the shaker about halfway to two-thirds full with ice. Seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for at least 20-30 seconds. This is the most important step for creating the beautiful, creamy foam. The outside of the shaker should become very cold and frosty.

Strain: If using a standard Hawthorne strainer, pour the mixture through it into your chilled glass. For an even finer, more velvety foam, double strain by pouring through both a Hawthorne strainer (to hold back the ice in the shaker) and a fine-mesh sieve held over the glass.

Garnish: Gently place three coffee beans on top of the foam.

Serve Immediately: Enjoy your perfectly crafted Espresso Martini while it's cold and frothy.

Tips for the Perfect Espresso Martini:

Fresh Espresso is Key: The natural oils and crema in freshly brewed espresso are essential for creating that signature rich foam.

Shake, Shake, Shake: Don't skimp on the shaking! Vigorous and prolonged shaking incorporates air and emulsifies the ingredients, leading to a thicker, more stable foam.

Cool the Espresso: Adding hot espresso will melt the ice too quickly, resulting in a watery and less foamy drink.

Quality Ingredients: As with any cocktail, the better the quality of your vodka, coffee liqueur, and coffee, the better the final drink will taste.

Adjust Sweetness: Taste your components. If your coffee liqueur is very sweet, you might want to omit or reduce the simple syrup.

Alternative Garnishes: While three coffee beans are traditional, you can also dust with a fine powder of cocoa or finely ground coffee.

Enjoy your homemade Espresso Martini!