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The Espresso Martini is one of the most iconic coffee-based cocktails, blending the bold, rich flavors of espresso with the smoothness of vodka and the sweetness of coffee liqueur. Whether you’re a coffee lover or a cocktail enthusiast, the Classic Espresso Martini is a perfect choice for a sophisticated drink to enjoy any time of day or night.
Ingredients Needed
To create a perfect Classic Espresso Martini, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 50ml vodka: A good quality, neutral vodka works best, such as Grey Goose or Absolut. The vodka provides a smooth base to let the coffee and liqueur shine.
- 25ml coffee liqueur: Kahlúa is the go-to choice for most bartenders, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and coffee flavor.
- 30ml freshly brewed espresso: Brew your espresso fresh and let it cool to room temperature. Fresh espresso enhances the flavor, giving your martini that bold coffee kick.
- Ice cubes: Essential for shaking and chilling the cocktail.
- Garnish: Three coffee beans, typically placed in a triangle formation on the frothy surface, are the classic garnish, symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness.
Instructions
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a perfect Classic Espresso Martini:
- Prepare the Espresso: Brew 30ml of fresh espresso. Let it cool to room temperature, as hot espresso can melt the ice in the shaker and water down the cocktail.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add 50ml of vodka, 25ml of coffee liqueur, and 30ml of espresso to a cocktail shaker. Ensure your shaker is clean and dry for best results.
- Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice cubes, but not too many. The goal is to chill the cocktail, not dilute it too much.
- Shake Well: Put the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. The shaking action will not only chill the ingredients but also create the signature frothy top.
- Strain and Serve: Double strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass to avoid any ice shards in your drink. This will also help achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Garnish: Place three coffee beans on the frothy surface of the cocktail for garnish.
Tips for the Perfect Classic Espresso Martini
- Use Fresh Espresso: For the best flavor, always brew fresh espresso. Pre-brewed or store-bought espresso can lose its rich aroma and taste.
- Chill Your Glass: For an extra touch of elegance, chill your martini glass by filling it with ice water before pouring your cocktail. This keeps the drink colder for longer.
- Don’t Over-shake: While shaking vigorously is essential to creating the foam, over-shaking can lead to excessive dilution and a weaker flavor.
- Experiment with Coffee Liqueur: While Kahlúa is the most popular choice, you can experiment with other coffee liqueurs like Tia Maria or Mr. Black to find the one that suits your taste.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer your martini a little sweeter, you can add a splash of simple syrup. Alternatively, use a sweeter coffee liqueur if you prefer a less bitter drink.
- Cold Espresso is Key: Always allow your freshly brewed espresso to cool slightly before adding it to the cocktail shaker. Hot espresso will melt the ice too quickly and water down the drink.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Here’s an estimate of the nutrition content of a Classic Espresso Martini:
- Calories: 180-220 kcal (depending on the vodka and coffee liqueur used)
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Sugar: 12-18g (mostly from the coffee liqueur)
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Caffeine: Around 63mg (from the espresso)
Why is the Classic Espresso Martini So Popular?
The Classic Espresso Martini was invented in the 1980s by bartender Dick Bradsell at the Soho Brasserie in London. According to the legend, a famous model requested a drink that would “wake me up and then [make me] mess me up.” This led to the birth of the now-legendary espresso martini.
Its popularity has soared, particularly with the rise of coffee culture and craft cocktails. The rich, bold flavor of espresso paired with the smooth kick of vodka makes it a standout drink at any bar, and its creamy, frothy top adds a touch of sophistication that appeals to both coffee enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs.
When to Enjoy a Classic Espresso Martini
The versatility of the Classic Espresso Martini makes it suitable for many occasions:
- After-Dinner Drink: Its combination of coffee and alcohol makes it an ideal digestif, perfect after a meal.
- Special Occasions: Whether it’s a celebration, a date night, or a cocktail party, this drink adds a touch of class to any event.
- Coffee Lovers’ Favorite: If you enjoy coffee, this is a fantastic way to enjoy your caffeine fix in a cocktail form.
- Night Out: It’s a great choice for an evening out with friends at a cocktail bar.
Final Thoughts
The Classic Espresso Martini is a perfect blend of bold espresso, smooth vodka, and sweet coffee liqueur, making it a delightful and sophisticated choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party, unwinding after a busy day, or celebrating a special event, this drink is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients and elegant presentation, the Classic Espresso Martini is a must-try for any cocktail lover.
Enjoy your espresso martini responsibly, and feel free to experiment with different types of coffee liqueurs or vodka to find your own perfect version!
