Espresso Martini: The Ultimate Guide to Crafting the Perfect Coffee Cocktail

The Espresso Martini is one of the most iconic coffee cocktails a bold, velvety fusion of espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and a touch of sweetness. Whether you're looking for a classy after-dinner drink, a late-night energy boost, or something to elevate your cocktail-making skills, the Espresso Martini never fails to impress.

With insights from SCA (Specialty Coffee Association), CQI (Coffee Quality Institute), and World Coffee Research, this guide will cover:
✔ The history and origins of the Espresso Martini
✔ The best Espresso Martini recipe
✔ Tips for getting the perfect crema on top
✔ FAQs on calories, variations, and troubleshooting

The Origins of the Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini was created in the 1980s by legendary bartender Dick Bradsell in London. The story goes that a supermodel walked into his bar and asked for something that would "wake her up and f*** her up." Bradsell combined vodka, fresh espresso, and coffee liqueur, and the Espresso Martini was born.

Today, it’s a modern classic, loved for its rich coffee depth, smooth texture, and sophisticated balance of flavors.

How to Make an Espresso Martini – Step-by-Step Recipe

Espresso Martini Ingredients

• 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka

• 1 oz (30ml) fresh espresso (Fine Robusta – Krong Năng recommended)

• 0.75 oz (22ml) coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or Mr. Black)

• 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup (adjust to taste)

• Ice

• 3 coffee beans (for garnish – symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brew Fresh Espresso

• Use a freshly pulled shot of espresso to ensure the best flavor and crema.

• If using cold brew concentrate, chill it first to avoid dilution.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cocktail Shaker

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to chill the ingredients.

• Pour in vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup.

Step 3: Shake Vigorously

• Shake for at least 15-20 seconds to create a foamy crema on top.

• The harder you shake, the better the texture.

Step 4: Strain & Serve

• Double strain into a chilled martini glass to remove ice shards.

• Let the foam settle, then garnish with 3 coffee beans.

Step 5: Enjoy!

• Sip and savor the perfect balance of coffee, sweetness, and vodka.

Pro Tips for the Best Espresso Martini

✔ Use high-quality coffee – The espresso makes or breaks the cocktail. A bold, caramelized coffee like Fine Robusta – Krong Năng enhances the drink’s depth.
✔ Chill your glass – A cold glass keeps the drink smooth and crisp.
✔ Shake HARD for a creamy top – The crema forms from the natural oils in the coffee combining with air.
✔ Adjust sweetness to taste – Reduce simple syrup if using a sweeter coffee liqueur.
✔ Use fresh espresso – Stale coffee won’t foam as well and loses its complexity.

Variations of the Espresso Martini

1. Salted Caramel Espresso Martini

• Swap simple syrup for salted caramel syrup.

• Garnish with a caramel drizzle on the glass rim.

2. Baileys Espresso Martini

• Replace vodka with Baileys Irish Cream for a creamier, dessert-like version.

3. Mocha Espresso Martini

• Add ½ tsp cocoa powder for a chocolate-coffee fusion.

• Top with chocolate shavings instead of coffee beans.

4. Vanilla Espresso Martini

• Infuse vodka with vanilla bean or add ½ tsp vanilla extract.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About the Espresso Martini

1. What’s in an Espresso Martini?

The classic Espresso Martini contains vodka, fresh espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup, shaken over ice and strained into a martini glass.

2. How Many Calories Are in an Espresso Martini?

An Espresso Martini has about 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients and sugar content.

3. What’s the Best Coffee for an Espresso Martini?

A bold, full-bodied coffee works best. Fine Robusta – Krong Năng is ideal because its caramel, honey, and tropical fruit notes complement the cocktail beautifully.

4. Why Does My Espresso Martini Not Have Foam?

• Your espresso isn’t fresh – Use hot espresso for better foaming.

• You didn’t shake hard enough – Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.

• Not enough coffee oil – High-quality coffee beans produce better crema.

5. When is National Espresso Martini Day?

March 15 is officially National Espresso Martini Day, a celebration of this beloved coffee cocktail.

Take Your Espresso Martini to the Next Level with Bazan Coffee

An Espresso Martini is only as good as its coffee. To achieve a rich, balanced, and aromatic cocktail, you need a coffee that delivers bold flavors with natural sweetness. That’s why Vietnam’s Fine Robusta is revolutionizing the specialty coffee scene.

The New Revolution: Fine Robusta from Vietnam

For years, Robusta was overlooked in favor of Arabica, but Vietnam’s Fine Robusta is changing the game. Through high-altitude cultivation, advanced fermentation techniques, and meticulous processing, Fine Robusta – Krong Năng delivers a smooth, complex coffee with caramelized depth perfect for espresso-based cocktails.

• Grown at 650m in Krong Năng, Đắk Lắk, Vietnam

• 72-hour natural anaerobic fermentation process

• Taste Notes: Durian, honey, caramel

• Thick, velvety body with a naturally sweet, low-acid profile

Its rich crema and balanced flavors make it the ultimate choice for Espresso Martinis.

Not Just Robusta The Best of Both Worlds

For those who prefer a balanced espresso with fruity and caramel undertones, Special Vietnam Blend is an excellent mix of high-altitude Arabica and Fine Robusta, offering ripe fruit, pineapple, caramel, and a light floral aroma.

If you enjoy a refined, complex espresso, Specialty Arabica – Cầu Đất is a must-try. Grown at 1,550m in Cầu Đất, Đà Lạt, this fully washed Arabica features bell pepper, spices, and caramel notes, delivering a clean, sophisticated coffee experience.

Which Coffee Fits Your Espresso Martini?

• Love bold, caramelized espresso with a robust body? Choose Fine Robusta Krong Nang

• Craving a smooth yet fruity cup with depth and character? Go with the Special Vietnam Blend

• Prefer a bright, clean, and sophisticated experience? Select Specialty Arabica Cau Dat

Your perfect Espresso Martini starts with the best espresso. Shop Bazan Coffee’s Finest Espresso Blends Now and craft something unforgettable.