There are some recipes that are just classics, including cocktail recipes. I'm not one for martinis, but give me a coffee-infused cocktail and I am all over it. I don't know why I've never made an espresso martini before this, but I can say with sure confidence this cocktail is the best thing since sliced bread and you must make it immediately. Espresso, vodka, coffee liquor, and bailey's, need I say more? If you're a coffee lover, you must try this!

Espresso Martini

An espresso martini is known for being an after-dinner drink, a small pick me up after a filling and scrumptious meal. Typically made with espresso, Kahlua (coffee liquor), and vodka, these ingredients are staples in an espresso martini. Of course, heavy on the vodka, because hello, this is a martini after all.

Why espresso?

Espresso is a stronger, concentrated form of coffee, and typically sipped in small shots. Whereas coffee is brewed at varied strengths, served in larger vessels, and typically contains more water. Espresso is perfect for martinis as you don't need much to taste the flavor of the coffee, and is strong enough to compliment the vodka and coffee liquor. If you only have coffee beans to brew at home, it's no big deal, brew the coffee and place in the fridge to cool for the martini.

Kitchen tools

All you really need for this recipe is a few simple bar tools and you'll be sipping on deliciousness in no time.

• Martini shaker
• Jiggers: Measuring the amount of alcohol that goes into cocktails is something I learned the hard way, but also when I was a bartender. It is  important to measure the ingredients to get that "just right" taste and balance. Cocktails are all about balance!
• Frother: This is optional, if you want to make the espresso martini super frothy on top.

What's in an espresso martini?

The best part about this espresso martini recipe is that there's not much required other than the staple ingredients.

• Vodka: There are so many vodka choices out there, but I tend to stick to either Van Gogh Vodka, Tito's, or a classic Ketel One.
• Coffee Liquor: In testing this recipe, I used Frangelico, but it doesn't do the same as Kahlua. I highly recommend Kahlua in this espresso martini.
• Espresso: If you can't use espresso, you can use a black cold brew coffee can or cold-brewed coffee.
• Bailey's: I added the Bailey's Irish Cream in this version, but you can opt to leave it out.

How do I make this recipe?

Making this recipe is quick, easy, and will be worth brewing espresso for!

1. In a shaker, add ice then pour in the vodka, cold espresso or cold brew, coffee liquor and baileys.
2. Shake until the mixture becomes frothy.
3. Pour into a martini glass and top with three espresso beans.

Swaps and Substitutions

Do I have to add Bailey's to this?

No, you can opt to make this espresso martini without Bailey's, but I happen to love the creamy flavor and texture it provides.

How do I make this martini recipe frothy?

You can add in one egg white to the shaker and shake vigorously. You don't have to, but it gives a flavorless froth to the end result. I typically just shake the ingredients really well which gives enough foam for me.

Hungry for more?

Check out these other delicious cocktails to add to your rotation:

• Sparkling Spiked Lemonade
• Tropical Mezcal Margarita
• Watermelon Froze