An Espresso Martini is a nice pick me up cocktail that can be made in a few minutes using your espresso machine and two simple ingredients.

close up Two coupes on a wood serving tray with coffee beans scattered upon it.

What is in an Espresso Martini?

An espresso martini is comprised of espresso, vodka and coffee liqueur such as Kahlua. It’s very easy to make. If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can brew some strong coffee instead using less water than normal and use that as a substitute although the taste will differ slightly from this recipe.

How to Make an Espresso Martini

These martinis are very easy to make. In fact, during Karlynn’s sister’s 40th birthday, I made several of them in the afternoon as a pick me up and they were very well received. You simply combine the ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake until cold. Then pour into a coupe (which is the type of glass shown here). Alternatively, you can use a martini glass but since the portions are small, it just won’t fill it to the brim.

Two coupes on a wood serving tray with coffee beans scattered upon it.

What Kind of Espresso Machine To Use

There are plenty of options for Espresso machines but I personally really enjoy our Nespresso machine. It has a nice variety of espresso and coffee pods to try and they deliver straight to your door within a day or two. The delivery speed is really quite impressive and make it a worthwhile investment.

The machine I use is this one. Even Karlynn’s dad enjoys it and uses it regularly when he comes to visit as opposed to making a pot of coffee (which we do in the mornings). It’s the perfect machine for an espresso martini.

Other Great Recipes To Try

If you enjoy cocktails here are a couple of additional ones that you can try:

Cucumber Mint Gin Fizz – a great way to use those cucumbers from the garden!
Vesper Martini – made with Lillet, Vodka and Gin
Grasshopper Cocktail – this is basically dessert in a glass
Eggnog Martini – this one is great around Christmas time

I hope you enjoy this recipe, it’s one of my favorite weekend afternoon cocktails to enjoy.

~ Mr. Magpie