This spiced espresso martini is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, perfect for holiday celebrations or a cozy night in. Made with rich coffee liqueur, freshly brewed espresso, vodka, and a touch of spiced syrup, it’s both festive and indulgent. Garnished with an orange twist, this martini brings warmth and sophistication to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Decadent: The perfect blend of espresso, coffee liqueur, and vodka.
- Festive Flavors: Warm spices like cinnamon and cloves make it ideal for the holidays.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes with minimal effort.
- Elegant Presentation: A classy cocktail with a beautiful garnish.
- Versatile: Great for dinner parties, date nights, or as an after-dinner treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
- 1/2 oz spiced syrup (homemade or store-bought)
- Ice cubes
- Orange twist, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
- Brew 1 oz of espresso and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Cocktail
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and spiced syrup.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to chill and froth the espresso.
Step 3: Serve
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist for a festive touch.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Vanilla Espresso Martini: Use vanilla vodka or add a splash of vanilla extract for a sweet twist.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup to the shaker or garnish with shaved chocolate.
- Dairy-Free Creaminess: Add a splash of oat milk or almond milk for a creamy version.
- Alcohol-Free Option: Use decaf espresso, omit vodka, and replace coffee liqueur with a coffee-flavored syrup.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. For batch preparation, mix the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and spiced syrup in advance, then shake with ice just before serving.
FAQs
1. What is spiced syrup?
Spiced syrup is a sweet syrup infused with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. You can make it by simmering equal parts sugar and water with your favorite spices for 10 minutes.
2. Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?
Yes, dissolve 1 tsp of instant coffee in 1 oz of hot water as a substitute.
3. How do I make the perfect foam on top?
Shake the cocktail vigorously in a shaker with plenty of ice to create a frothy layer.
4. Can I use decaf espresso?
Absolutely! Decaf espresso works perfectly for a caffeine-free version.
5. What’s the best vodka for this recipe?
A high-quality vodka like Grey Goose or Tito’s will enhance the flavor of the cocktail.
6. Can I use a different garnish?
Yes, garnish with coffee beans, a cinnamon stick, or a light dusting of cocoa powder for variety.
7. How do I chill the martini glass?
Place the glass in the freezer for 5-10 minutes or fill it with ice water while preparing the cocktail.
8. Can I make this drink sweeter?
Add an extra splash of spiced syrup or use a sweeter coffee liqueur for a more indulgent flavor.
9. Can I use cold brew coffee instead of espresso?
Yes, cold brew can be a good substitute, though it may result in a slightly less intense flavor.
10. Is this cocktail strong?
It has a moderate alcohol content but feels balanced thanks to the coffee and syrup.
Conclusion
The Spiced Espresso Martini is a sophisticated and indulgent cocktail that’s perfect for any special occasion. Its rich, bold flavors and warm spiced undertones make it a festive favorite, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home. Shake up this easy recipe and savor the perfect blend of coffee and spirits!
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Spiced Espresso Martini
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Spiced Espresso Martini is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail! Featuring rich coffee liqueur, freshly brewed espresso, vodka, and a touch of warm spices, it’s the perfect drink for holiday parties or cozy evenings.
Ingredients
Produce:
- Orange twist (for garnish)
Condiments:
- 1/2 oz spiced syrup (see notes for a homemade version)
Drinks:
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (cooled)
Beer, Wine & Liquor:
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
Frozen:
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare the Cocktail:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and spiced syrup.
- Shake Well:
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 20–30 seconds, until the shaker feels cold to the touch and the drink is well chilled.
- Strain and Serve:
- Strain the martini into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with an orange twist for a bright citrus aroma. For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or a single clove on top.
Notes
- Make Your Own Spiced Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, 1 cinnamon stick, and 2–3 whole cloves. Simmer until the sugar dissolves and the spices infuse. Cool and strain before using.
- For a frothy top, ensure your espresso is freshly brewed and shaken well with the other ingredients.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less spiced syrup to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks, Cocktails
- Method: Shake
- Cuisine: Italian-inspire
