Espresso Martini
Vodka, coffee liqueur and a shot of fresh espresso shaken hard until it wears a thick hazelnut crema. It only works with genuinely fresh coffee.
Method
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Chill a coupe or martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes.
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Pull a fresh shot of espresso. Do not let it stand — you have about a minute before it stops foaming properly.
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Fill a cocktail shaker two-thirds with ice.
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Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, sugar syrup and the hot espresso.
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Shake as hard as you can for 15 to 20 seconds, until the shaker is painfully cold and heavily frosted.
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Double-strain through a fine sieve into the chilled glass — this catches ice shards and gives a cleaner foam.
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Let it settle for 20 seconds so the crema rises, then float three coffee beans in the centre and serve.
Chef’s Tips
- Fresh espresso only. Cold brew, instant or yesterday's coffee will not produce a crema.
- Shake harder and longer than feels necessary. The foam is the whole point.
- Adjust the sugar to your coffee — a darker roast needs a little more.
Pairing Suggestions
- Serve after dinner in place of dessert
- Excellent with a square of dark chocolate
- A good match for tiramisu
Storage & Reheating
Mix to order. The espresso cannot be made ahead. Sugar syrup keeps 1 month refrigerated.
Nutritional Highlights
Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.