The Frozen Cherry Espresso Martini is a bold and refreshing take on the classic espresso martini, blending rich espresso, sweet cherries, and vodka into a smooth, luxurious frozen cocktail. Perfect for coffee lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike, this drink delivers a vibrant combination of deep coffee flavors and fruity cherry notes with a velvety texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and bold flavors – The deep espresso blends beautifully with sweet cherries and smooth vodka.
- Refreshing frozen twist – A blended martini with a creamy, icy texture for a unique experience.
- Elegant and indulgent – Perfect for special occasions, cocktail nights, or summer evenings.
- Simple to make – Ready in just 5 minutes with a handful of ingredients.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness or strength to match your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup frozen cherries
- 2 shots espresso, cooled
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or similar)
- 1 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup ice
- Fresh cherries for garnish
Directions
1. Prepare the Espresso
- Brew 2 shots of espresso and allow them to cool completely before blending.
2. Blend the Cocktail
- In a blender, combine:
- Frozen cherries
- Cooled espresso
- Vodka
- Coffee liqueur
- Simple syrup
- Ice
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Serve and Garnish
- Pour the mixture into chilled coupe or martini glasses.
- Garnish with fresh cherries on the rim for an elegant touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 2 cocktails
- Calories: 190 kcal per serving
Variations
- Chocolate twist – Add ½ oz chocolate liqueur or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a mocha-style martini.
- Extra creamy version – Blend in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Boozier kick – Swap vodka for bourbon or dark rum for a deeper, smokier flavor.
- Less sweet option – Reduce or omit the simple syrup for a stronger, bolder taste.
- Cherry-forward flavor – Add ¼ oz cherry liqueur for an intensified fruity profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Make ahead: You can brew the espresso in advance and chill it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Leftovers: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store in an airtight container in the freezer for a few hours and reblend if needed.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Yes! Use fresh pitted cherries and add extra ice for the frozen texture.
What’s the best type of vodka for this cocktail?
A smooth, high-quality vodka like Grey Goose, Belvedere, or Absolut works best.
Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes! Simply omit the vodka and coffee liqueur for a cherry espresso mocktail.
Do I have to use a blender?
Yes, for the frozen texture. If you prefer it shaken, use fresh cherries, muddle them, and shake with ice.
How can I make this drink stronger?
Use less simple syrup and extra espresso or vodka to boost the intensity.
Can I use decaf espresso?
Absolutely! Decaf espresso works just as well for a late-night drink.
What’s the best glass to serve this in?
A martini or coupe glass keeps it elegant and classic.
Can I add whipped cream on top?
Yes! A dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder adds extra indulgence.
How do I get the best blending consistency?
Make sure the espresso is fully cooled before blending to prevent melting the ice too quickly.
What pairs well with this cocktail?
Serve with dark chocolate, biscotti, or chocolate-covered espresso beans for a perfect pairing.
Conclusion
The Frozen Cherry Espresso Martini is a sophisticated yet refreshing cocktail that combines the bold flavors of espresso with the sweetness of cherries and a smooth vodka finish. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail night or looking for an indulgent treat, this drink is sure to impress. Try it today and elevate your martini experience!
