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.
Backed by research from Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), Coffee Quality Institute (CQI), World Coffee Research, and Barista Hustle, 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.