18 Creamy Espresso Martini Recipes with a Twist

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you ready to elevate your cocktail game? Look no further! In this article, we’re shaking things up (literally) by sharing 18 unique and deliciously creamy espresso martini recipes that put a twist on the classic. From sweet treats like White Chocolate Espresso Martini and Tiramisu-Inspired Espresso Martini, to savory surprises like Smoky Mezcal Espresso Martini and Spicy Chili Chocolate Espresso Martini, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re a coffee lover, a chocoholic, or just looking for a fun and creative cocktail to impress your friends, these espresso martinis are sure to hit the spot. So grab your shaker, pour in some Kahlúa, and get ready to mix it up with our top 18 creamy espresso martini recipes with a twist!

Classic Espresso Martini with Vanilla Vodka

Experience the perfect blend of rich espresso and creamy vanilla vodka in this classic martini recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1.5 oz Vanilla Vodka
– 0.5 oz Kahlúa
– 0.5 oz freshly brewed espresso
– 0.25 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– Whipped cream and coffee beans for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add Vanilla Vodka, Kahlúa, espresso, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for approximately 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and coffee beans, if desired.

Cooking Time: None (cocktail preparation)

Salted Caramel Espresso Martini

Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and indulgent treat that combines the perfect blend of coffee, caramel, and saltiness. This Salted Caramel Espresso Martini is a delightful twist on the classic martini.

Ingredients:

– 2 shots of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka (preferably a neutral-tasting variety)
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon caramel syrup
– Ice
– Whipped cream and caramel sauce for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the espresso, vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and heavy cream to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Drizzle the caramel syrup over the top of the martini.
6. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the caramel layer (optional).

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!

White Chocolate Espresso Martini

Elevate your coffee game with this decadent White Chocolate Espresso Martini! Rich and creamy white chocolate mingles with bold espresso to create a unique and indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce Kahlúa
– 1 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 shot of strong brewed espresso
– Ice
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, Kahlúa, and white chocolate liqueur to the shaker.
3. Add the heavy cream and espresso shot.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!

Spiced Pumpkin Espresso Martini

Elevate your cocktail game with this seasonal twist on the classic espresso martini, featuring the warm spices of pumpkin pie and a shot of rich espresso.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce Kahlúa
– 1/2 ounce Baileys Irish Cream
– 1/2 ounce pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 shot espresso
– Simple syrup (optional)
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, Kahlúa, Baileys, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Add ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
3. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Pour in the shot of espresso.
5. If desired, sweeten with simple syrup to taste.
6. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with pumpkin pie spice.

Cooking Time: None

Coconut Espresso Martini with Rum

Elevate your martini game with this unique blend of coconut, espresso, and rum. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a tropical vibe.

Ingredients:
• 2 oz dark rum
• 1 oz Kahlúa
• 1 oz coconut cream
• 1/2 oz espresso syrup (or strong brewed coffee)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/4 cup shaved ice
• Fresh lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with shaved ice.
2. Add rum, Kahlúa, coconut cream, espresso syrup, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a fresh lime wheel.

Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.

Hazelnut Espresso Martini with Frangelico

Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and decadent Hazelnut Espresso Martini, featuring the nutty flavors of Frangelico liqueur.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce Frangelico liqueur
– 1/2 ounce Kahlúa coffee liqueur
– 1/2 ounce espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1/4 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– Ice
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Frangelico, Kahlúa, espresso, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with chopped hazelnuts, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings (if desired).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None needed, as this is a cocktail recipe.

Orange Mocha Espresso Martini

A refreshing twist on the classic espresso martini, this Orange Mocha version combines the richness of coffee and chocolate with the brightness of citrus flavors.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz Kahlúa liqueur
– 1/2 oz freshly brewed espresso
– 1/2 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
– 1/2 oz chocolate syrup
– 1/4 oz heavy cream
– Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Kahlúa, espresso, orange liqueur, and chocolate syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream.
6. Garnish with an orange twist.

Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, after all!

Peppermint Espresso Martini for the Holidays

Brighten up your holiday gatherings with this refreshing and invigorating peppermint espresso martini. The perfect blend of rich coffee, sweet peppermint, and creamy vodka will leave you feeling merry and bright!

Ingredients:

– 2 shots of strong espresso
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka (peppermint-flavored or regular)
– 1/2 ounce Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the espresso, vodka, white chocolate liqueur, and peppermint extract to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint sprinkles.

Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just minutes.

Tiramisu-Inspired Espresso Martini

Combine the rich flavors of tiramisu with the boldness of an espresso martini for a unique and indulgent cocktail experience.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz Kahlúa liqueur
– 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1/2 cup)
– 1 tablespoon sugar syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Whipped cream and cocoa powder for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, Kahlúa, Baileys, and espresso shot to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Drizzle the sugar syrup around the inside of the glass to create a rim.
6. Garnish with whipped cream and cocoa powder, if desired.

Cooking Time: N/A (ready in 10 minutes)

Bourbon Espresso Martini with Maple Syrup

Experience the perfect blend of rich bourbon, bold espresso, and sweet maple syrup in this indulgent cocktail. A sophisticated twist on the classic martini, this recipe is sure to delight any whiskey lover.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz freshly brewed espresso
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Ice
– Coffee beans or grinds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, espresso, and maple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and add a dash of vanilla extract.
6. Garnish with coffee beans or grinds.

Cooking Time: None

Almond Joy Espresso Martini

Combine the smoothness of coffee with the indulgent flavors of Almond Joy, and you’ll be sipping on a true indulgence. This recipe brings together the perfect blend of creamy coconut, crunchy almonds, and rich espresso for a truly unique martini experience.

Ingredients:

– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce Kahlúa liqueur
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– 1/2 ounce coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 ounce)
– Chocolate shavings or toasted almonds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Kahlúa, heavy cream, coconut cream, and almond extract.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Pour in the shot of espresso, allowing it to flow slowly down the sides of the glass.
6. Garnish with chocolate shavings or toasted almonds.

Cooking Time: None required!

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Espresso Martini

This decadent cocktail combines the flavors of rich chocolate, sweet strawberries, and bold espresso for a treat that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz Kahlúa liqueur
– 1 oz heavy cream
– 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 shot of espresso (about 1 oz)
– Simple syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, Kahlúa, and heavy cream.
2. Add a handful of ice to the shaker and shake until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave (30-second increments, stirring between each interval).
5. Dip a strawberry slice into the melted chocolate, coating both sides evenly.
6. Place the chocolate-covered strawberry on top of the martini.
7. Pour the espresso shot over the strawberry and garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)

Smoky Mezcal Espresso Martini

Elevate your cocktail game with this bold and smoky twist on the classic espresso martini. The combination of rich coffee liqueur, velvety vodka, and spicy mezcal will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce Kahlúa
– 1/2 ounce Mezcal
– 1/2 ounce freshly brewed espresso
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– Ice
– Lime wheel (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, Kahlúa, and Mezcal.
3. Pour in the espresso and add the sugar.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill.
5. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel, if desired.

Cooking Time: None (just shake and serve!)

Banana Bread Espresso Martini

This unique martini combines the flavors of banana bread and espresso for a delightful treat. Perfect for coffee lovers and those with a sweet tooth!

Ingredients:

– 1 shot of strong espresso
– 1 1/2 oz vodka (preferably banana-flavored)
– 1/2 oz vanilla syrup
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream and crushed nuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add espresso, vodka, vanilla syrup, and heavy cream.
3. Slice the banana and add it to the shaker.
4. Sprinkle ground cinnamon on top of the banana.
5. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
6. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
7. Garnish with whipped cream and crushed nuts if desired.

Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy cocktail that can be prepared in just a few minutes.

Lavender Honey Espresso Martini

Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing twist on the classic espresso martini. The subtle flavor of lavender honey adds a floral and sweet touch to balance out the boldness of the espresso.

Ingredients:
– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce Kahlúa liqueur
– 1/2 ounce freshly brewed espresso
– 1/4 ounce lavender honey syrup (see note)
– 1/2 ounce heavy cream
– Ice
– Fresh lavender buds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, Kahlúa, and espresso to the shaker.
3. Add the lavender honey syrup and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and garnish with fresh lavender buds, if desired.

Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)

Matcha Espresso Martini with a Green Twist

Experience the perfect blend of Japanese green tea and Italian espresso in this refreshing martini cocktail. With its vibrant green color, subtle matcha flavor, and invigorating caffeine kick, this drink is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 1 shot of strong espresso
– 1 teaspoon of matcha powder
– 1 1/2 ounces of vodka
– 1/2 ounce of simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 ounce of green tea liqueur
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves or matcha powder for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add espresso, matcha powder, vodka, simple syrup, and green tea liqueur to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Top with heavy cream and garnish with fresh mint leaves or matcha powder.

Cooking Time: None required!

Cherry Amaretto Espresso Martini

Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and decadent Cherry Amaretto Espresso Martini, perfect for special occasions or a nightcap treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 oz espresso
– 1/2 oz cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 1/2 oz amaretto liqueur
– 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Cherry garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add espresso, cherry liqueur, amaretto, and vodka to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Drizzle heavy cream over the top of the cocktail in a zig-zag pattern.
6. Garnish with a cherry on top.

Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!

Spicy Chili Chocolate Espresso Martini

Elevate your martini game with this unique and tantalizing Spicy Chili Chocolate Espresso Martini. The perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and rich flavors will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients:

– 2 oz vodka
– 1 oz Godiva white chocolate liqueur
– 1 oz Kahlúa coffee liqueur
– 1/2 oz chili-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– 1 tsp instant espresso powder
– Chocolate shavings and chili flakes for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, white chocolate liqueur, coffee liqueur, chili-infused simple syrup, and heavy cream.
2. Add instant espresso powder to the mixture and shake well for about 15-20 seconds.
3. Strain the martini into a chilled glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with chocolate shavings and a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.

Summary

Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with these 18 creamy espresso martini recipes that put a twist on the classic. From classic vanilla vodka and salted caramel to white chocolate, spiced pumpkin, and coconut rum, there’s something for every taste bud. Try hazelnut Frangelico, orange mocha, peppermint for the holidays, tiramisu-inspired, bourbon with maple syrup, almond joy, chocolate-covered strawberry, smoky mezcal, banana bread, lavender honey, matcha green twist, cherry amaretto, and spicy chili chocolate. These unique recipes will take your espresso martini to new heights!

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