Espresso Martini

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces vodka

• 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur

• 1 ounce freshly brewed espresso

• 1/4 ounce simple syrup

• Ice cubes
  

• Optional: 3 coffee beans for garnish
  
  

Instructions:

Combine Ingredients:
In a cocktail shaker, add the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup.

Add Ice and Shake:
Add ice cubes to the shaker, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds. This will chill the drink thoroughly and create a creamy foam.

Strain:
Double strain the cocktail into a chilled martini or coupe glass using a Hawthorne strainer and a fine-mesh strainer to remove any ice shards and ensure a silky texture.

Garnish:
If desired, carefully place 3 coffee beans on top of the foam for a traditional and elegant presentation.

Notes:

Espresso Tips:
Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor and crema. Allow it to cool slightly before shaking to avoid melting the ice too quickly and diluting the drink.

Alternative Sweeteners:
You can substitute simple syrup with vanilla syrup or maple syrup for added depth and character.

 The Espresso Martini was invented in the 1980s by legendary British bartender Dick Bradsell at Fred’s Club in London. According to popular lore, a model requested a drink that would "wake me up and f*** me up," leading Bradsell to combine vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso.

This cocktail quickly became iconic, celebrated for its balance of bold coffee flavor and smooth, spirited kick. Its frothy crema and eye-catching garnish made it a favorite in cocktail bars across the globe, contributing to the resurgence of coffee-based cocktails.

Today, the Espresso Martini remains a go-to after-dinner drink, with variations incorporating flavored vodkas, cold brew, or even a dash of chocolate or chili liqueur to suit modern palates.