Enjoy the rich flavors of coffee and the smoothness of a co*cktail with this shortcut creamy espresso martini recipe using cold brew and Kahlua. It’s the simplest sophisticated co*cktail recipe, delivering decadent flavor with a creamy twist.
★★★★★5 from 1 review
Hey, coffee and co*cktail lovers! You’re going to love this easy creamy espresso martini recipe (no espresso machine needed!). It combines cold brew coffee with Kahlua for a smooth, indulgent drink perfect for any occasion.
I’ll guide you through simple steps to make this fun coffee co*cktail. Follow along for a delicious treat that’s fast to make and even better to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This quick-to-make espresso martini is easy to love. The taste is lusciously delicious! It’s sweet and creamy with a comforting frothy top layer.
The drink blends smooth cold brew coffee and rich coffee liqueur to create the most satisfying drink + dessert combo in one glass. Plus, it combines my three favorite things: coffee, co*cktails, and shortcuts!! IMO that makes it the perfect co*cktail.
It’s incredibly simple to make, with just a few ingredients, and the crema texture adds a lavish touch that makes every sip feel special.
Whether you’re winding down after a long week or hosting friends, this martini will fulfill your coffee cravings and be well-received by your guests.
Ingredients
Below is a list of each ingredient in the martini.
Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate
I use Starbucks cold brew for a smooth and rich coffee flavor that’s less acidic than regular coffee. You can find all kinds of cold brews in the coffee aisle of your grocery store.
Kahlua or Coffee Liqueur
This adds a little sweetness and robust coffee flavor with a hint of vanilla, making the martini taste amazing and indulgent.
Vodka
A classic martini base, it adds the perfect amount of kick without overpowering the coffee flavors. Use your favorite brand.
Heavy Cream
The cream is my favorite part! It gives this martini its creamy top froth, making it velvety and luxurious. You could also create the foam with half and half, 1 or 2% milk, or oat milk.
Ice
It’s essential for chilling the drink and giving it a refreshing, crisp finish. I use ice cubes to chill the co*cktail shaker and shake the ingredients.
Garnish
If desired, rim the glass with crushed biscotti, or chocolate cookies for a yummy, chocolaty flavor with each sip. You can also mix sugar and ground cinnamon for a sweet and spicy rim.
Sprinkle cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top (or add to the rim of the glass). Then, add cinnamon sticks or coffee beans for the quintessential finishing touch on top of your co*cktail.
Alternatively, create a decorative swirl inside the glass by drizzling chocolate syrup before pouring in the martini mixture. You can also top the martini with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Equipment
These bar tools are basic yet essential for making a delicious and creamy espresso martini at home.
co*cktail Shaker
Use a co*cktail shaker to mix and chill the ingredients thoroughly.
Jigger or Measuring Glass
For best results, measure the precise amounts of the recipe with a jigger, shot or other measuring glass.
Electric Hand Held Milk Frother
This colorful wand tool (affiliate link) makes it fun, easy, and quick to create a lovely froth to complete your espresso creation.
Substitutions
Experiment with these alternatives and different variations to create a customized martini that suits your personal preferences.
Add Real Coffee
Swap out the cold brew with a robust coffee brewed from a drip coffee maker or French press for a different twist. For an intensified coffee profile, opt for real espresso shots, giving a concentrated flavor to your recipe.
Gluten Free Options
According to the the celiac.com website, Kahlua, Soma’s, Mr Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, Allen’s Coffee Brandy, Café Rica, Tia Maria, and many other brands are gluten-free. Please check all labeling before consuming to be sure they fit your dietary restrictions.
Non-Dairy Creamers
For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk, almond milk creamer, or oat milk creamer instead of the cream to achieve a creamy texture without dairy. They each provide their own unique flavor and texture. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences.
Vodka Swaps
Try using vanilla vodka or infused vodka instead of regular to impart a subtle flavor to your martini.
Flavored Syrups
Add a flavored syrup such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut to enhance the creaminess and introduce new flavor notes.
Added Sweetness
Mix in a tiny amount of sweetened condensed milk for a creamy, sweet twist. For extra sweetness, opt for the classic simple syrup or add a touch of sweetened vanilla syrup.
Freeze it
For a chilled and blended version, freeze cold brew concentrate into ice trays. Blend the cold brew ice cubes with your other ingredients until smooth, creating a refreshing and flavorful frozen treat.
Instructions
Below are step-by-step directions for making the easiest espresso martini recipe ever.
1 Fill Shaker with Ice
Add ice cubes to approximately the halfway mark to chill the shaker and the drink.
2 Add Cold Brew, Kahlua, and Vodka
Pour 2 ounces of cold brew coffee. Next, add 2 ounces of Kahlua or your favorite creamy liqueur for a rich coffee flavor. Add 2 ounces of vodka to give the martini its classic kick.
3 Shake Well
Shake the mixture vigorously for 15-20 seconds until it’s well combined and chilled.
4 Strain into Glass
Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass to remove the ice. Do not wash the shaker, but dispose of the ice.
5 Froth Cream
Pour 4 ounces of heavy cream into the used shaker, froth with a handheld frother wand.
6 Top with Cream and Garnish
Slowly pour the cream over the martini. Garnish as desired. Serve immediately and enjoy.
FAQ
Can I use cold brew for an espresso martini?
You can use cold brew for an espresso martini. Simply substitute the traditional freshly brewed espresso with an equal amount of cold brew coffee. This will give the martini a smoother and less acidic flavor while providing a rich coffee taste.
Can you make espresso martinis ahead of time?
You can make a pitcher of cold-brew coffee martinis beforehand. This allows for quick and easy serving, perfect for entertaining. Mix the cold-brew coffee, vodka, and coffee liqueur in a pitcher and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, stir or shake the mixture with ice, pour into martini glasses, froth your cream, top, and garnish with three coffee beans.
Why garnish an espresso martini with coffee beans?
The three beans are said to represent health, wealth, and happiness.
Expert Tips
Here’s a list of pro tips for making espresso martini.
Keep it Cool
Chill your martini glasses in the freezer for about 10 minutes before making the co*cktail. This keeps the drink cold and enhances the experience.
Use High-Quality Vodka
Choose a high-quality vodka for a smoother taste. The quality of the vodka can make a big difference in the overall flavor of the martini.
Mix Good
Shake the co*cktail vigorously for at least 15-20 seconds. A good shake chills the drink and creates a nice, frothy top.
Serve Immediately
Serve the martini immediately after shaking to enjoy it at its best. The froth and chill are perfect right after preparation.
Practice Makes Perfect
Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. Making co*cktails is an art, and with a little practice, you will perfect your espresso martini!
More Decadent Recipes
Here are some delicious dessert ideas that pair well with an espresso creamy martini. They complement the coffee notes in an espresso martini, creating a harmonious and delightful pairing for any occasion.
Chocolate Espresso Brownies in a ramekin
Healthy Choccolate Nut Butter
Amazing Chocolate Chip Cookies
Mini Cheesecakes
Chocolate Ganache Cream Puffs
Homemade Irish Cream Liqueur
Chocolate Protein Shake
Peanut Butter Rice Krispies
Ready? Let’s make a martini or two.
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Espresso Martini Recipe with Cold Brew
- Author: Cindy Munson
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy this creamy espresso martini recipe with this fast and easy shortcut method using cold brew and Kahlua.
Ingredients
Scale
2 oz. cold brew coffee I use Starbucks® Cold Brew Coffee
2 oz. parts vodka
2 oz. Kahlua coffee liqueur or other coffee-flavored liqueur
4 oz. heavy cream
Instructions
Chill two martini glasses in the freezer.
Fill a co*cktail shaker halfway with ice. Then, pour in cold brew coffee, vodka, and coffee liqueur.
Give it a vigorous shake for about 15-20 seconds.
Strain the mixture into 2 chilled martini glasses. Dispose of ice in the shaker, but you do not need to clean it.
Add 4 oz. of cold heavy cream into the shaker and blend with a handheld frother wand until the desired level of foam is reached. Pour the mixture on top of the martini.
Garnish. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Garnish Ideas For a delicious twist, rim the glass with cocoa powder, crushed biscotti, or chocolate cookies. Mix sugar and cinnamon for a sweet, spicy rim. Sprinkle cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top, and add cinnamon sticks or coffee beans. Drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring the martini, or top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: co*cktails
- Method: Shake
Keywords: espresso, martini, cold brew, kahlua, co*cktail, recipe, Starbucks cold brew
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What to Serve with Espresso Martinis
Below are more ideas for what to serve with your delicious co*cktail martini.
Chocolate Truffles
I love pairing the rich, creamy martini with decadent chocolate truffles for an indulgent treat. (Or this easy chocolate cake recipe!)
Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses, especially creamy brie or sharp cheddar, complements the smooth flavors of the martini.
Biscotti
Crunchy biscotti are perfect for dipping into the creamy martini, adding a delightful texture contrast.
Fresh Berries
Serving a bowl of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a refreshing, fruity note.
Mini Cheesecakes
Individual mini cheesecakes provide a sweet and creamy complement to the martini.
Shortbread Cookies
Buttery shortbread cookies are simple yet delicious, matching well with the creamy drink.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon
I like serving prosciutto-wrapped melon for a savory-sweet combo, which adds a sophisticated touch to the drink.
Macarons
Delicate and colorful macarons, especially those with coffee or chocolate flavors, make for a delightful and elegant pairing.
Nut Mix
A mix of roasted and salted nuts provides a crunchy, savory snack that balances the sweetness of the martini.
Fruit Tart
A fresh fruit tart with a buttery crust and sweet filling adds a refreshing and colorful element to the experience.
Please comment below and tell me how you liked this shortcut espresso martini recipe. I’d love to hear from you!
Be sure tosubscribeor follow me on social media for more inspiration! Us coffee lovers need to stick together. 😉
This spin on the classic co*cktail is the perfect after-dinner drink (without a espresso maker!) And if you love life hacks, this quick cold brew method will be much easier than a classic espresso martini recipe.
The creamy foam topping will have you coming back for seconds.
xo,
Cindy
