Top 8 Espresso Martini Variations to Try
Looking to elevate your Espresso Martini game? Here are eight creative variations that blend bold coffee flavors with unique twists. Whether you prefer classic, seasonal, or indulgent options, there’s something here for everyone.
Quick Overview of Variations:
- Classic Espresso Martini: Vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar for a timeless flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice: Add pumpkin spice extract and maple syrup for a cozy fall vibe.
- Chocolate Orange: Combine chocolate and orange liqueurs for a dessert-like drink.
- Salted Caramel: Sweet and salty with salted caramel syrup and creamy texture.
- Coconut: Coconut rum and toasted coconut garnish for a tropical twist.
- Hazelnut: Frangelico adds a nutty depth, perfect for Nutella lovers.
- Vanilla Chai: Chai-honey syrup and vanilla create a warm, spiced experience.
- Mocha: Chocolate liqueur and espresso for a rich, indulgent treat.
Key Tips for All Variations:
- Use fresh, high-quality espresso and spirits.
- Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to achieve a frothy crema.
- Chill your glassware for the best presentation.
These recipes are perfect for after-dinner drinks or special occasions. Ready to mix things up? Keep reading for detailed recipes and tips to create your favorite Espresso Martini variation!
Espresso Martini 10 Variations
1. Standard Espresso Martini
The classic Espresso Martini combines vodka, fresh espresso, and coffee liqueur to create a rich, well-balanced cocktail.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 2 oz | Base spirit |
| Coffee Liqueur | ½ oz | Adds sweetness & depth |
| Fresh Espresso | 1 oz | Delivers coffee flavor |
| Simple Syrup | ¼ oz | Optional sweetener |
| Coffee Beans | 3 | Garnish |
The technique makes all the difference. Use room-temperature espresso to avoid watering down the drink. Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice, and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds. This step is crucial for creating the cocktail’s signature crema – the silky foam layer on top.
“The most satisfying part of a good Espresso Martini is the crema; the foamy, silky layer of tight bubbles that sit on the head of the cocktail.” – Terry Cashman, Bartender and Project Manager at Sweet & Chilli [1]
To perfect your Espresso Martini:
- Chill your glass ahead of time and use high-quality vodka for a balanced flavor.
- Double strain the mixture to ensure a smooth texture.
Finish with three coffee beans as garnish. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a strong cold brew concentrate works as a substitute, though it may produce less crema. This timeless recipe is also the perfect base for experimenting with new twists.
2. Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini
Give the classic espresso martini a cozy fall makeover with pumpkin spice. This version blends coffee and warm spices for a seasonal treat.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 2 oz | Base spirit |
| Coffee Liqueur (Kahlúa) | 1 oz | Adds coffee sweetness |
| Fresh Espresso | 1 oz | Coffee foundation |
| Pumpkin Spice Extract | 2–3 drops | Adds fall flavor |
| Maple Syrup | ¼ oz | Natural sweetener |
| Pumpkin Pie Spice | For garnish | Aromatic finish |
Start by adding 2–3 drops of pumpkin spice extract and adjust to your taste. This ingredient is key to achieving the perfect balance between spice and coffee.
“The espresso martini of the season 🎃 It’s so easy to add a pumpkin flavor to the classic espresso martini – I added a couple drops of pumpkin spice extract, some shakes of pumpkin spice, and instead of simple syrup, I used a little maple syrup to bring out the fall flavor! 🍁🍂”
– Katie Austin, Fitness Instructor and Recipe Developer
For extra flair, rim your glass with a mix of pumpkin pie spice and brown sugar. First, coat the rim with a light layer of pumpkin syrup to help the mixture stick. Chill your martini glass in the freezer before serving to keep the drink cold and give it a frosted appearance.
Want to tweak the flavor? Add more vodka for a stronger kick or more espresso for a bolder coffee taste. Always use freshly brewed, high-quality espresso to preserve the cocktail’s rich coffee essence.
Finish your creation by lightly dusting the top with pumpkin pie spice and garnishing with three coffee beans. It’s the perfect way to toast the season!
3. Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini
This version of the classic Espresso Martini combines bold chocolate with zesty orange, creating a dessert-inspired cocktail that stands out. The mix of cocoa and citrus adds a rich yet refreshing twist.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 3/4 oz | Base spirit |
| Chocolate Liqueur | 1 3/4 oz | Adds a rich chocolate base |
| Triple Sec | 1/4 oz | Provides orange flavor |
| Fresh Espresso | 1 oz | Coffee foundation |
| Crème de Cacao | 1/2 oz | Boosts chocolate notes |
| Orange Twist | 1 piece | Aromatic garnish |
Balancing the chocolate and orange flavors is essential to perfecting this cocktail. Baking Bites describes the effect perfectly:
“That orange oil coats the top of the drink and really gives the cocktail a bright, fresh orange aroma. In other words, you’ll smell orange, but still taste plenty of chocolate from the cocktail.” [2]
To make it, pre-chill your glass and shake all the ingredients with ice for 15-20 seconds. Garnish with an expressed orange zest and a light dusting of cocoa powder. The orange zest provides a citrusy aroma that complements the rich chocolate base beautifully.
4. Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
This twist on the classic espresso martini delivers a sweet and salty kick. The Salted Caramel Espresso Martini blends the boldness of freshly brewed espresso with the richness of salted caramel for a smooth, indulgent finish.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 1 oz | Main spirit |
| Coffee Liqueur | 1 oz | Deepens coffee flavor |
| Fresh Espresso | 1 shot | Central coffee component |
| Salted Caramel Syrup | 0.5 oz | Adds sweetness and saltiness |
| Milk or Non-dairy Alternative | 2 oz | Creates a creamy texture |
To perfect this drink, aim for a balance between the sweetness of the caramel and the hint of salt. You can use salted caramel vodka for a smoother blend or mix in a pinch of sea salt directly into the shaker for more control over the saltiness [3][4].
For an eye-catching presentation, rim a chilled martini glass with caramel syrup and a touch of sea salt. The dark cocktail contrasts beautifully with the caramel rim. Garnish with three coffee beans for a classic touch.
Shake the mixture with ice for 15–20 seconds to create that signature foam. For a finishing touch, sprinkle cocoa powder or finely ground espresso on top. The combination of robust espresso and rich caramel makes this cocktail unforgettable.
5. Coconut Espresso Martini
The Coconut Espresso Martini brings a tropical vibe to the classic Espresso Martini. It blends the deep, rich flavors of coffee with the smooth, tropical taste of coconut, creating a refreshing and exotic cocktail.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut Rum | 2 oz | Delivers the main coconut flavor |
| Fresh Espresso | 1.5 oz | Provides a bold coffee base |
| Raw Cane Sugar | 2 tsp | Balances the sweetness |
| Coconut Flakes | As needed | Adds a decorative tropical garnish |
For the best results, use high-quality coconut rum to enhance the coconut flavor. Alternatively, you can swap it with coconut vodka for a different twist. Always use freshly brewed espresso and let it cool slightly before mixing.
Instructions:
- Add all the liquid ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled halfway with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds until a creamy foam develops.
- Chill your martini glass, then rim it with marshmallow fluff and dip it into toasted coconut flakes for a sweet, crunchy garnish.
Optional Variation: For a bold alternative, try the Coconut Jalisco version. Replace the coconut rum with 1½ oz reposado tequila, add ½ oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz cold brew coffee concentrate, and ½ oz coconut syrup [5]. This variation adds tequila’s earthy notes while keeping the coconut-coffee balance intact.
6. Hazelnut Espresso Martini
Take your Espresso Martini to the next level with a rich blend of hazelnut and coffee flavors. This twist, inspired by Italy’s Piedmont region, uses Frangelico to deliver a nutty depth that’s hard to resist.
“Wake up and smell this deliciously nutty take on the popular coffee cocktail. The classic hazelnut liqueur, Frangelico, makes all the difference. Sweet, aromatic, and golden, it’s made in Piedmont, Northern Italy, from a guarded recipe of Italian hazelnuts combined with coffee, cocoa, and vanilla distillate and extracts.” [6]
- Vic Arkoff, Author
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Frangelico | 0.5 oz | Adds the signature hazelnut flavor |
| Vodka | 1 oz | Provides a smooth base |
| Fresh Espresso | 1.5 oz | Delivers bold coffee notes |
| Simple Syrup | 0.25 oz | Balances sweetness |
| Coffee Beans | 3 pieces | Traditional garnish |
Want a twist? Swap vodka for Venezuelan rum (like Diplomatico Mantuano) to introduce hints of oak and vanilla.
Here’s how to make it:
- Pre-chill your glass.
- Fill a shaker with ice and add all liquid ingredients.
- Shake for 20 seconds to create a velvety foam.
- Fine strain into the chilled glass.
- Garnish with three coffee beans for a classic touch.
Pro Tip: For an almond variation, replace Frangelico with Amaretto. You can also add ½ oz of pasteurized egg white for a creamier texture and extra foam.
“If Nutella were a cocktail, it’d be this Espresso Martini recipe! This is a fun, festive, and frothy drink. It’s easy to make and super delicious.” [7]
- Darcey Olson, Author
7. Vanilla Chai Espresso Martini
This cocktail combines the boldness of espresso with the cozy, spiced flavors of chai and a touch of vanilla. It’s a perfect mix of warmth and energy.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 1.5 oz | Base spirit |
| Kahlúa | 1.5 oz | Coffee liqueur |
| Fresh Espresso | 1 oz | Coffee flavor |
| Coconut Milk | 1 oz | Adds creaminess |
| Chai-Honey Syrup* | 1-2 tbsp | Sweet, spiced touch |
*To make the Chai-Honey Syrup:
- ½ cup honey
- 4 chai tea bags
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
“The chai syrup is the extra special holiday touch to this martini. It’s so simple to make. You basically brew chai tea, then add honey and vanilla to create a simple syrup.” [8] – Tieghan Gerard, Half Baked Harvest
How to Make It:
- Brew a strong chai tea to prepare the chai-honey syrup. Stir in honey and vanilla extract until fully dissolved. Let it cool.
- Add ice, vodka, Kahlúa, fresh espresso, coconut milk, and your chai-honey syrup into a cocktail shaker.
- Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
For a festive touch, rim the glass with vanilla sugar. Mix sugar with vanilla bean seeds for a flavorful twist. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg and a star anise pod for added flair.
“It’s not too sweet, perfectly spiced with warming flavors of chai, and just lightly hinted with vanilla.” [8] – Tieghan Gerard, Half Baked Harvest
Pro Tip: Start with 1 tablespoon of chai-honey syrup and adjust to your taste. The coconut milk adds a silky finish while balancing the bold coffee and chai spices.
For the best flavor, use freshly brewed espresso. This cocktail is a crowd-pleaser for any gathering or special occasion.
8. Mocha Espresso Martini
This cocktail blends the deep flavors of mocha with the boldness of espresso, striking a harmony between the bitterness of coffee and the sweetness of chocolate.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 1.5 oz | Base spirit |
| Coffee Liqueur | 1 oz | Coffee flavor |
| Chocolate Liqueur | 1 oz | Chocolate flavor |
| Fresh Espresso | 1 oz | Strong coffee taste |
| Cream or Oat Milk | 0.5 oz | Smooth, creamy texture |
How to Make It:
- Combine vodka, coffee liqueur, chocolate liqueur, fresh espresso, and cream in a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Add a finishing touch with one of these garnish options:
Garnish Ideas:
- Lightly dust cocoa powder over the top using a fine sieve.
- Shave dark chocolate with a vegetable peeler for decorative curls.
- Place three coffee beans on top for a classic presentation.
- Add a twist of orange zest for a citrusy contrast.
Tips for a Better Cocktail:
- Try vanilla vodka for added depth, and increase the espresso for a stronger coffee flavor.
- If you’re using coffee substitutes, include an egg white or cocktail foamer to maintain frothiness.
- Adjust the sweetness by tweaking the chocolate-to-coffee liqueur ratio.
Finding the Right Flavor:
Experiment with equal parts chocolate and coffee liqueur, then adjust to suit your taste. Italian espresso works particularly well, offering a strong base that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
For a dairy-free option, replace cream with oat milk. This keeps the drink silky smooth while making it vegan-friendly – perfect for an indulgent after-dinner treat.
Final Thoughts
Espresso martinis now come in a range of flavors to suit different tastes. At Simone on Sunset, we create these variations using top-notch ingredients.
High-quality espresso and premium spirits are the foundation of a great espresso martini. Using reliable equipment and fresh ingredients makes all the difference.
“An ‘Espresso Cocktail’ just doesn’t have the same ring to it as an ‘Espresso Martini,’ and it was the Martini in the name of these cocktails that allowed a generation of new cocktail drinkers to proudly and loudly order a drink that sounded like a spirituous drink James Bond would call for but was actually a slightly sweet fruity cocktail.” – Simon Difford [9]
Whether you’re drawn to the Mocha or the Vanilla Chai twist, each recipe brings its own personality to the table. Keep these helpful tips in mind to create your perfect mix:
- Chill your glassware and use fresh ice
- Opt for premium spirits
- Adjust sweeteners gradually to taste
- Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to achieve that signature frothy top
Want to try these creations? Our specialty cocktail menu features these espresso martini variations, priced between $12 and $19. They’re ideal for an after-dinner treat or a sophisticated start to your evening.
With options ranging from the classic vodka base to bold choices like bourbon or mezcal, there’s something for everyone. Each version strikes a careful balance of flavors, offering a delightful experience for any palate.
