- Why is there no foam on top?
- You didn't shake hard enough. The oils in the coffee need to emulsify with the air during shaking.
Espresso martini
Although named a Martini, it has nothing to do with the classic vermouth drink, other than the glass shape. Legend has it that in 1980s London, a top model asked for a drink that would 'wake me up, then f*** me up'. Bartender Dick Bradsell created this modern classic: the caffeine content of espresso and the kick of vodka are a perfect match.
Ingredients
50
ml
Fresh Espresso (hot)
30
ml
Coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
30
ml
Vodka
10
ml
Sugar syrup (to taste, if you prefer sweeter)
1
large handful
Ice cubes
3
beans
Coffee beans (garnish)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Shaker: For foaming.
- Chilled Martini glass (Y-glass): For stylish serving.
Instructions
1
✓
Brew a strong espresso.
Tip: Fresh coffee has the 'crema' (oil layer) that forms a nice foam when shaken.
2
✓
Fill the shaker with ice, then pour in the vodka, liqueur, and finally the hot coffee.
Tip: Don't be afraid of the hot coffee: although it melts the ice, this dilution is necessary to harmonise the flavours.
3
✓
Seal and shake with full force for at least 15 seconds. You should feel the ice hitting the walls.
Tip: Shaking not only cools but pumps air into the liquid, creating the characteristic creamy foam layer on top.
4
✓
Strain through a fine mesh sieve into the chilled glass.
Tip: The fine sieve catches tiny ice shards, keeping the texture silky.
5
✓
Place 3 coffee beans on top of the foam for good luck.
Tip: The three beans traditionally represent health, wealth, and happiness.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 50 ml Fresh Espresso (hot)
- 30 ml Coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- 30 ml Vodka
- 10 ml Sugar syrup (to taste, if you prefer sweeter)
- 1 large handful Ice cubes
- 3 beans Coffee beans (garnish)