How to Make the Perfect Espresso Martini with Baileys
The Espresso Martini with Baileys is a creamy, indulgent twist on the classic Espresso Martini, blending bold espresso, rich coffee liqueur, vodka, and Baileys Irish Cream for a luxurious cocktail experience.
If you're looking to elevate your cocktail game, this guide will provide expert insights and a barista-approved recipe to craft the perfect Baileys Espresso Martini at home.
This article covers:
- What makes an Espresso Martini with Baileys unique?
- Step-by-step Baileys Espresso Martini recipe
- Pro tips to get the perfect crema
- Common mistakes and how to avoid them
What is an Espresso Martini with Baileys?
A Baileys Espresso Martini is a creamy, slightly sweet version of the classic Espresso Martini, featuring Baileys Irish Cream, which adds a rich texture and a smooth, velvety finish.
How is it Different from a Classic Espresso Martini?
|
Feature |
Classic Espresso Martini |
Baileys Espresso Martini |
|
Base Spirits |
Vodka + Coffee Liqueur |
Vodka + Baileys + Coffee Liqueur |
|
Texture |
Light & frothy |
Creamy & velvety |
|
Flavor Profile |
Bold, bitter-sweet coffee taste |
Smooth, sweet, and indulgent |
|
Best For |
Strong coffee lovers |
Dessert cocktail enthusiasts |
If you enjoy espresso-based drinks like lattes or Irish coffee, this Baileys Espresso Martini is the perfect cocktail for you.
How to Make an Espresso Martini with Baileys – Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 oz (30ml) Vodka
- 1 oz (30ml) Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz (30ml) Freshly brewed espresso (Fine Robusta – Krong Năng recommended)
- 0.5 oz (15ml) Coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- Ice
- 3 coffee beans (for garnish, symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brew a Fresh Espresso
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Use a high-quality espresso shot for the best crema and aroma.
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If using cold brew concentrate, make sure it’s well-chilled to avoid dilution.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cocktail Shaker
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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
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Add vodka, Baileys, fresh espresso, and coffee liqueur.
Step 3: Shake Vigorously
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Shake hard for 15-20 seconds to create a thick, creamy froth.
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The harder you shake, the better the foam.
Step 4: Strain & Serve
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Double strain into a chilled martini glass.
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Allow the crema to settle, then garnish with three coffee beans.
Step 5: Enjoy!
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Sip and savor the silky-smooth, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic cocktail.
Pro Tips for the Best Baileys Espresso Martini
- Use high-quality coffee – A rich, caramelized coffee like Fine Robusta – Krong Năng enhances depth and crema.
- Shake with force – The frothier, the better! A good shake emulsifies coffee oils for a velvety top.
- Chill your martini glass – A cold glass keeps the drink crisp and smooth.
- Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a stronger coffee kick, reduce Baileys slightly.
- Use fresh espresso – Stale coffee loses its aroma, crema, and richness.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
1. Why doesn’t my Espresso Martini have foam?
❌ Cause: You didn’t shake hard enough or used stale espresso.
✅ Solution: Use fresh, hot espresso and shake aggressively for at least 15 seconds.
2. My cocktail tastes too weak what went wrong?
❌ Cause: Too much Baileys or an overdiluted espresso shot.
✅ Solution: Reduce Baileys slightly and use a double-shot espresso for stronger flavor.
3. Can I make it without vodka?
✅ Yes! Substitute dark rum or whiskey for a unique twist.
4. Can I make a dairy-free version?
✅ Use Baileys Almande (almond-based) or homemade oat milk Irish cream.
Take Your Espresso Martini with Baileys to the Next Level with Bazan Coffee
A Baileys 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.
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Grown at 650m in Krong Năng, Đắk Lắk, Vietnam
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72-hour natural anaerobic fermentation process
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Taste Notes: Durian, honey, caramel
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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 Baileys Espresso Martini?
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For a bold, energizing cold brew with deep sweetness and creamy texture → Fine Robusta Krong Nang
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For a balanced, fruity, and aromatic cold brew → Special Vietnam Blend
- For a bright, refined cold brew with floral and spicy complexity → Specialty Arabica Cau Dat
👉 Your perfect Baileys Espresso Martini starts with the best espresso. Shop Bazan Coffee’s Finest Espresso Blends Now and craft something unforgettable.