What is an espresso martini, you may ask? In one word: tantalizing. This rich beverage got its start in the 1980s and has been around ever since. People can’t help but feel drawn to the sophisticated aroma of coffee beans and sweet notes of vodka mixed together. A one-of-a-kind flavor indeed, espresso martinis are a staple of many co*cktail menus when it comes to entertaining and special occasions. If you want to try this hot (not literally) drink for yourself, look no further. We’re about to dish out the best espresso martini recipe on the internet – so keep reading!
What You Need for the Original Espresso Martini Recipe
Unlike those of some other co*cktails, an espresso martini ingredients list is pretty simple. You just need a few basic elements to get started – namely vodka, espresso coffee, and coffee liqueur. Of course, you can always add your own special touches or garnish to the mix. Many people choose to take the extra step of topping their espresso martini off with real coffee beans or cream. At the end of the day, the creative control is in your hands.
Espresso Martini Ingredients
Unlike those of some other co*cktails, an espresso martini ingredients list is pretty simple. You just need a few basic elements to get started – namely vodka, espresso coffee, and coffee liqueur. Of course, you can always add your own special touches or garnish to the mix. Many people choose to take the extra step of topping their espresso martini off with real coffee beans or cream. At the end of the day, the creative control is in your hands.
What is the Best Ratio for a Martini?
The answer to this question is debatable, as like mentioned before, everyone has their own preference. Most people go for a ratio of one to six – three shots of gin for every half shot of vermouth. But it’s completely acceptable to experiment with this balance to find what suits your palate best. You can also try different brands to mix up the flavor.
What are the Standards for Espresso Martini?
Creative freedom aside, there is a basic composition to follow when crafting an espresso martini. Our recipe calls for 1.5 US fluid ounces (44 mL) of vodka, 1 US fluid ounce (30 mL) of hot espresso coffee, and 2⁄3 US fluid ounce (20 mL) of coffee liqueur. So grab these ingredients and a measuring cup, and get ready to mix.
How Much Coffee is in Espresso Martinis?
The average espresso martini recipe has about 63 mg of caffeine. If you’re wondering how to make an espresso martini more powerful, there are a few things you can do. First, use two shots of espresso instead of one. This will double the amount of caffeine in the drink and give it a stronger taste as well. You could also add an energy drink to the co*cktail, such as Red Bull or Monster.
Bar Tools
It’s very well possible to make espresso martinis at home, but in order to do so properly, you’ll need the right tools. Enter BROOD’s espresso martini machine. This powerful piece of equipment is capable of pumping out five cups of professional-quality cold brew coffee in the same minute. It also has an advanced nitro tap system that infuses nitrogen into co*cktails for a smooth, creamy finish. Using BROOD’s espresso martini machine is the fastest and easiest way to make outstanding espresso martinis on your own. Discover the perfect blend of coffee and spirits with these exquisite espresso co*cktails.
How to Make an Espresso Martini
No Baileys? No problem.
Though making this co*cktail with Baileys is a clear favorite, you may choose an alternative dairy and still create a fabulous drink. Classic espresso martini lovers will bad-mouth the use of any cream, repeating the old Kahlua vs Baileys debate, but those seeking a creamy martini need something more buttery than Kahlua can provide. Here’s how to make a successful creamy espresso martini without Baileys:
Ingredients
As fancy as the name sounds, espresso martini preparation isn’t nearly as hard as it seems. Here are some simple step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process:
- Prepare Espresso Coffee
First thing’s first – get the espresso ready. This can be done by using an espresso machine to brew a single shot of concentrated coffee. Make sure it’s consistent and strong! - Fill Nitro Cold Brew Machine with Ice
You’ll need to fill your DRNX unit with ice to create a cold brew. - Add Ingredients
Next comes adding the other ingredients to the party. Take your premeasured espresso coffee, vodka, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup and place them into the machine. There are no rules on specific labels, just make sure the proportions are correct and all ingredients are well mixed. - Use Nitro Cold Brew Machine
Now it’s time to let the nitro cold brew machine do its thing. The DRNX unit will use nitrogen and pressure to mix and chill all of the ingredients together, giving you a perfectly blended espresso martini in no time. - Serve
Once the espresso martini is cold and ready to serve, strain it into a chilled glass, add a garnish of your choice, and enjoy! Popular choices for garnishes include mint leaves, coffee beans, and chocolate shavings. You can also opt for an iced espresso martini by serving the drink over ice. No matter which way you choose to serve it, your espresso martini will be a surefire hit!
Are Espresso Martinis Sweet?
This is something many people ask before making espresso martini co*cktails. And rightfully so. You don’t want to put all sorts of time and effort into a beverage that turns out too sweet for your liking. While it’s difficult to fully describe the flavor of an espresso martini, most people would call it somewhat sweet, but just as strong, rich, and smooth. The final taste can also vary depending on what brands and ingredient ratios you use. In any case, as long as it’s mixed right, every espresso martini’s flavor can be summed up in two words: utterly delicious.
Martini Espresso vs Without Espresso
Believe it or not, not every recipe for espresso martini co*cktails includes espresso. Sounds oxymoronic, right? But it’s true! In fact, there are many espresso martini variations that substitute other ingredients for the espresso. Just take a look online and you’ll find plenty of coffee bean based alternatives – everyone has a different opinion with respect to coffee, so it’s no wonder why there are so many interpretations out there. Have fun experimenting with different caffeine-alcohol combos, or try both the full espresso martini recipe provided here against the same mix without espresso. There’s no wrong answer!
Hot vs Cold Espresso Martini
Not all espresso martini recipes are intended to be made cold, either. You can create just as powerful of a taste with hot ingredients as well. Back to personal preference, some people actually prefer their espresso martinis served hot. And the process of mixing them isn’t all that different from what we explained earlier. The main change you’ll need to make is the way you prepare the espresso. Instead of using cold-brew, you’ll want to use freshly brewed espresso as your base ingredient. This will give it that extra kick and make sure everything is nice and hot.
Substitution Ingredients for Espresso Martini
We’ve told you about the three main espresso martini ingredients that are essential to making this famed co*cktail – espresso, vodka, and alcohol liqueur. While it’s advised to stick with them to fully realize the recipe’s taste, you have the option of using several substitutes. For example, if you don’t have access to espresso shots, you can use a strong brewed coffee as a replacement. The alcoholic components are also interchangeable; use white rum or whiskey in place of vodka, or sweetened condensed milk and coffee extract instead of conventional coffee liqueur.
What Liquor is Best for Espresso Martinis?
Liquor will have a big impact on how your espresso vodka martini tastes. The standard liquor base for an espresso martini co*cktail is vodka, as it has a light, neutral flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients. You can experiment with different types of vodka to find one that works best for you; some drinkers prefer a spicier or fruitier flavor.
Can you use Coffee Instead of Espresso for Espresso Martini?
Now, how do you make an espresso martini less powerful for those who can’t hold their caffeine? Regular coffee beans can also be used to make espresso drinks, but they are usually weaker than espresso beans. Using regular coffee beans can help to mellow out the flavor and reduce the caffeine kick of an espresso martini.
Secret to the Best Creamy Espresso Martini Recipe
The secret to making the best espresso martini recipe ever lies in two words: Nitro technology. Nitrogen-infused beverages have an unparalleled degree of flavor and texture compared to other brewed drinks. Not only can infusion enhance the flavor of the coffee in your espresso martini, but it also adds a visual appeal that can’t be matched by traditional latte art. Learn why premixed co*cktails from BROOD are the ultimate solution for hassle-free and high-quality drinks.
Nitro coffee is made by adding a nitro charger to an espresso machine, combining nitrogen with the pressurized water and mixing it in with your freshly ground beans. The result? A rich, creamy and velvety coffee that tastes like nothing you’ve ever had before. BROOD is the leader in nitro coffee technology – take a look at our systems below.
DRNX
DRNX is the ultimate espresso martini machine for those who want to elevate their coffee-making experience. With its sleek and stylish design, it adds a touch of sophistication to any kitchen countertop. It’s also super easy to use, featuring a simple and intuitive interface that speaks to the modern barista. Coffee lovers of every level, from novice to expert, can craft delicious espresso martinis with ease using the DRNX machine. Perfect for at-home use or for adding to a coffee shop menu, the DRNX is sure to please.
DRNX DUO
Now, if you have slightly higher espresso martini demands to fulfill, why not consider DRNX DUO? This advanced system performs the same functions as its counterparts, only on a larger scale. With its two taps, you’ll be able to effortlessly pour and serve up to five drinks a minute. The DRNX DUO is well-suited for anyone who plans on making espresso martinis regularly, for multiple people, or simply for anyone who wants to feel like a professional behind the bar!
DRNX BRW
DRNX BRW is our most advanced nitro cold brew coffee maker yet. It’s been designed with a refrigerated internal reservoir that chills liquid to a low 2°C. The system is fully self-contained, meaning no tanks, piping, or consumables are needed. Best of all, DRNX BRW can dispense multiple kinds of beverages – both nitro-infused and still – as well as brew coffee for you. An absolute game-changer for busy coffee shops and multidisciplinary espresso martini drinkers.
Espresso Martini Premix
Still not completely sure on how to make an espresso martini? We’ve got you covered. BROOD’s Espresso Martini Premix is a fast and convenient way of getting the coffee-liqueur flavor you love, minus the extra preparatory work. Just add it to your cup and go to town with froth and garnish – a fresh espresso martini will be yours in a matter of seconds.
Pro Tips to Make the Best Espresso Martini
If you’re wondering how to make espresso martini co*cktails even better, here are some tips on how to take your mixology game up a notch:
- Chill Your Glassware
Chill your glassware before pouring in the espresso martini mix for an extra-smooth and cold experience. Different types of glasses can be used, like martini glasses or other wide-mouth cups. Just make sure to for at least 20 minutes! - Try Different Garnishes
Garnish your espresso martini with something unexpected like a coffee bean, a cinnamon stick, or even an orange peel for added flavor and visual appeal. - Shake
Shaking the espresso martini mix and pouring it into a chilled glass creates a creamy texture and can be great for those who prefer less of an alcoholic taste. - Experiment
Play around with different ratios of espresso, vodka, and simple syrup to find the ideal flavor profile that you enjoy! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients either – try adding a splash of amaretto or a hint of Irish cream – you may surprise yourself with the results!
How to Premix Espresso Martinis With Cold Brew Machines
Want to know how to make an espresso martini recipe easy and delicious? Just use a BROOD machine. Our systems pair well with our premade mixes, enhancing their flavor with direct infusions of nitrogen. There’s no better way to create a perfect espresso martini with the roastiest and creamiest coffee flavor.
To make an Espresso Martini using BROOD, all you need is a shot of BROOD-made espresso and one of our premade mixes. We recommend adding ice to the mix before pouring in espresso. Then, shake it for at least 10 seconds to make sure everything is properly combined.
Wrapping Up
Now that you’ve got the full details on our espresso martini recipe – and the factors that go into making one of these drinks great – it’s time to try it out for yourself. BROOD’s espresso martini machine gives you the power to make your own delicious espresso martini right at home, with the perfect temperature and pressure for a smooth, strong brew. Start exploring our line of products today to learn more about DRNX, DRNX DUO, and DRNX BRW. With a professional-grade machine like one of these, you can never go wrong behind the bar counter.
