Say hello to my current obsession.
It’s funny — this is the third coffee-based drink I’ve shared in three weeks, which is probably a sign that I’m hooked. Espresso martinis have taken over my cocktail rotation since a bachelorette party back in May where I discovered how perfectly balanced they can be.
At bars I usually avoid espresso martinis because so many versions are loaded with chocolate, syrups or drizzles — way too sweet for my taste. I’m not opposed to sweet treats (hello, hot fudge milkshake), but with cocktails I prefer something clean, bold and not cloying.
Case in point: last weekend I made sangria for Max’s birthday party and used a dry champagne. I was proud of myself — until I dumped an entire bag of frozen strawberries into the pitcher and turned the whole thing unexpectedly sweet. The pitcher disappeared fast, but I barely wanted any. Apparently my palate is going through some kind of identity crisis.
Which brings me back to the espresso martini I can’t stop making. It’s straightforward and exactly what I want: a shot (or two, or three) of real espresso — never decaf — pulled from my Nespresso machine. Add a splash of coffee liqueur for gentle sweetness and depth, and finish with vanilla vodka for the alcohol backbone. That’s it. No chocolate. No heavy syrups. Just coffee-forward, smooth, and satisfying.
These drinks feel cozy in the best way — soul-warming rather than temperature-warming. They’re the sort of cocktail you want while curled up by a fire, swapping stories with a friend. They’re simple to make, quick to shake, and perfect for when you want something both energizing and indulgent without being overly sweet.
Also worth noting: the last few recipes I’ve posted are all three-ingredient, caffeinated creations. I’ll take the extra energy — the holiday season has me running on fumes, and these are a fun, daytime-appropriate treat when you need a little pick-me-up with a boozy edge.
Espresso Martinis
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Ingredients
- 1, 2, or 3 shots espresso
- 2 ounces coffee liqueur like Kahlua
- 1 ounce vanilla vodka
- coffee beans for garnish if desired
Instructions
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Add the espresso, liqueur and vodka to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until chilled and slightly frothy. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a few coffee beans if you like.
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Also called gift-wrapping fuel.