Tequila Espresso Martini: A Bold Twist on a Classic Coffee Cocktail

If you love the rich intensity of an Espresso Martini but crave something bolder, smokier, and more adventurous, meet your new favorite cocktail: the Tequila Espresso Martini. By swapping vodka for tequila, this variation takes on a deeper complexity, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice complementing the deep, chocolatey richness of espresso.

Whether you're a coffee cocktail enthusiast, a tequila lover, or just looking to shake up your mixology game, this guide will show you:

•  Why tequila makes an incredible Espresso Martini base

•  How to craft the perfect Tequila Espresso Martini

•  Pro tips for a velvety, balanced cocktail

•  FAQs on tequila, caffeine, and variations

With research from SCA (Specialty Coffee Association), CQI (Coffee Quality Institute), and Barista Hustle, this guide ensures your Tequila Espresso Martini is perfectly balanced, flavorful, and unforgettable.

What Is an Espresso Martini with Tequila Called?

The Tequila Espresso Martini doesn’t have a universal name, but many call it the Mexican Espresso Martini or Espresso Margarita. Some high-end bars refer to it as the Espresso Tequini, but regardless of the name, the key is the smooth, rich balance of tequila, espresso, and coffee liqueur.

Unlike vodka, which is neutral, tequila adds a rich depth, bringing out caramel, vanilla, and spice notes that pair beautifully with bold espresso.

How to Make a Tequila Espresso Martini – Step-by-Step Recipe

Tequila Espresso Martini Ingredients

• 1.5 oz (45ml) tequila reposado (smooth, slightly aged tequila works best)

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

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

• 0.5 oz (15ml) agave syrup or 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

• A fresh shot of espresso ensures the best crema and depth of flavor.

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

Step 2: Prepare Your Cocktail Shaker

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

• Add tequila, espresso, coffee liqueur, and agave syrup.

Step 3: Shake Vigorously

• Shake hard for 15-20 seconds to create a rich, foamy crema.

Step 4: Strain & Serve

• Double strain into a chilled martini glass.

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

Step 5: Enjoy!

• Sip and savor the perfect blend of tequila’s warmth, espresso’s boldness, and liqueur’s smooth sweetness.

Why Tequila Works in an Espresso Martini

•  Deeper complexity – Reposado tequila adds honey, caramel, and spice that enhance coffee’s richness.

•  Balanced sweetness – The natural sweetness of agave softens espresso’s boldness.

•  Smooth & smoky – Unlike vodka, tequila brings an earthy, oaky depth to the cocktail.

•  Perfectly caffeinated – A great way to stay energized while enjoying a smooth, boozy kick.

Pro Tips for the Best Tequila Espresso Martini

•  Use high-quality coffee – A bold, caramelized coffee like Fine Robusta – Krong Năng enhances depth and crema.

•  Shake HARD for a creamy top – The crema forms from the natural oils in the coffee combining with air.

•  Chill your glass – A cold glass keeps the drink smooth and crisp.

•  Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a drier cocktail, reduce the syrup slightly.

•  Experiment with tequila types – Reposado is best for richness, but blanco gives a cleaner, sharper taste.

Variations of the Tequila Espresso Martini

1. Spicy Mexican Espresso Martini

• Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to highlight the spice in tequila.

• Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar for a subtle heat.

2. Coconut Tequila Espresso Martini

• Swap tequila reposado for coconut-infused tequila.

• Use coconut milk instead of simple syrup for a tropical twist.

3. Chocolate Tequila Espresso Martini

• Add ½ oz (15ml) crème de cacao for a mocha-inspired cocktail.

• Garnish with chocolate shavings instead of coffee beans.

4. Vanilla Tequila Espresso Martini

• Use vanilla-infused tequila or add ½ tsp vanilla extract for extra smoothness.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Tequila Espresso Martinis

1. What Type of Tequila Is Best for an Espresso Martini?

Reposado tequila is best because it has been aged slightly, bringing out caramel, vanilla, and honey notes that complement espresso. However, blanco tequila gives a sharper, more refreshing kick.

2. How Many Calories Are in a Tequila Espresso Martini?

It contains about 200-250 calories, depending on syrup and liqueur content.

3. Can I Make It Without Coffee Liqueur?

Yes! Just increase the espresso to 1.5 oz (45ml) and adjust the sweetener accordingly.

4. Why Does My Espresso Martini Not Have Foam?

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

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

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

Take Your Coffee Cocktails to the Next Level with Bazan Coffee

A Tequila 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 Tequila Espresso Martini?

• For a bold, energizing cold brew with deep sweetness and creamy texture → Fine Robusta Krong Nang

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