History
The Espresso Martini was created by a bartender named Dick Bradsell in the late 1980s. Bradsell worked at the Soho Brasserie in London, which was a popular spot for celebrities and fashionistas. One evening, a famous model came into the bar and requested a drink that would both “wake her up and mess her up.” Bradsell took this as a challenge and created the Espresso Martini on the spot.
The original recipe consisted of fresh espresso, vodka, and a coffee liqueur such as Kahlúa. Bradsell shook these ingredients together with ice and strained the mixture into a chilled martini glass. He garnished the drink with three coffee beans, which were said to represent health, wealth, and happiness.
The drink was an instant hit and soon became a favorite of London’s fashionable crowd. In the 1990s, it made its way across the Atlantic and became popular in New York City, where it was featured on the TV show “Sex and the City.”
Easy Espresso Martini Recipe
The Espresso Martini is a straightforward but delicious cocktail that requires only a few ingredients. The key to a great Espresso Martini is to use high-quality coffee and spirits.
Espresso Martini Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 shot of fresh espresso
- 1.5 oz of vodka
- 1.5 oz of coffee liqueur such as Kahlúa
- 1/2 oz of simple syrup optional
- Ice
- Coffee beans or grated chocolate for garnish
Instructions
- For this Easy Espresso Martini Recipe Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and cooled espresso to the shaker.
- If you like your drinks on the sweeter side, add 1/2 oz of simple syrup.
- Shake and shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain all the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with coffee beans or grated chocolate.
Variations
The Espresso Martini is a versatile cocktail that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. lets check a few variations that you can try:
White Russian Espresso Martini: Add a splash of cream or half-and-half to the recipe for a creamier, richer drink.
Hazelnut Espresso Martini: Use hazelnut liqueur instead of coffee liqueur for a nutty flavor.
Spicy Espresso Martini: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
The Espresso Martini is a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that has become a favorite of many. Its history is rooted in London’s trendy bar scene of the 1980s, but it has since spread across the globe and become a classic cocktail that can be found on the menu of many bars and restaurants. Whether you’re a coffee lover or a cocktail enthusiast, the Espresso Martini is sure to delight your taste buds. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why this drink has become so popular?
People Frequently asked questions…FAQ
Is espresso martini a strong drink?
Yes, the Espresso Martini is generally considered a strong drink due to its combination of espresso and vodka. The amount of alcohol in a typical serving size can vary depending on the recipe, but a standard recipe using 1.5 oz of vodka and 1 oz of Kahlúa can have an alcohol content of approximately 26% ABV (alcohol by volume). Additionally, the caffeine content in the espresso can also contribute to a perceived “strong” effect, as it can increase alertness and enhance the effects of the alcohol. It’s always important to drink responsibly and in moderation, and to be aware of the alcohol content of the drinks you consume.
Are espresso martinis healthy?
While the Espresso Martini may contain coffee, which has been associated with some health benefits in moderation, it is important to note that alcoholic beverages are not typically considered healthy due to their potential negative effects on the body when consumed in excess. The Espresso Martini also contains alcohol, which is known to have harmful effects on the liver and can increase the risk of certain health issues such as high blood pressure and cancer when consumed in large amounts. Additionally, the sugar content in the Kahlúa and any additional sweeteners used in the recipe can add up and contribute to excess calories, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems if consumed in excess. It’s important to enjoy cocktails like the Espresso Martini in moderation and as part of a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
What liquor is best for an espresso martini?
The most common and traditional liquor used in an Espresso Martini is vodka. Vodka is a neutral-flavored liquor that allows the coffee and other ingredients to shine through in the drink. However, some bartenders may experiment with other liquors to create variations on the classic recipe. For example, some may use rum or bourbon instead of vodka, which can add a unique flavor profile to the drink. Ultimately, the choice of liquor is a matter of personal preference, and it’s important to choose a high-quality liquor that you enjoy for the best taste experience.
What flavour is espresso martini?
The Espresso Martini is a rich and complex cocktail that blends the flavors of coffee, vodka, and a sweet liqueur like Kahlúa or coffee liqueur. The coffee flavor in the drink is usually strong and rich, and can be enhanced with a touch of sweetness from the liqueur. The vodka adds a subtle kick and smoothness to the cocktail, while the liqueur contributes a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor. Overall, the Espresso Martini is a delicious and indulgent drink with a distinct coffee flavor that is balanced out by the other ingredients for a harmonious taste experience.
How does espresso martini taste?
The Espresso Martini is a delicious and sophisticated cocktail that has a complex taste profile. The drink typically has a strong coffee flavor that is bold and rich, with a slight bitterness from the espresso that is balanced out by the sweetness of the liqueur. The vodka adds a subtle kick and smoothness to the cocktail, while the creaminess of the foam on top adds a velvety texture to the drink. Overall, the Espresso Martini is a well-balanced cocktail that offers a harmonious blend of flavors that is both indulgent and refreshing.
Is espresso martini served hot or cold?
The Espresso Martini is typically served cold, as it is a chilled cocktail that is traditionally made by shaking the ingredients with ice and then straining the mixture into a chilled martini glass. The drink is often garnished with coffee beans or grated chocolate, and may also have a creamy foam layer on top. The chilled temperature of the drink helps to enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness and bitterness of the ingredients. While some variations of the drink may be served warm, the classic version is a cold and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot day or enjoying during happy hour.
Is an espresso martini sweet or bitter?
The flavor profile of the Espresso Martini can be described as a balance of sweetness and bitterness. The drink typically has a strong coffee flavor that can be slightly bitter from the espresso, which is balanced out by the sweetness of the liqueur used in the recipe. The vodka adds a subtle kick and smoothness to the cocktail, while the creaminess of the foam on top adds a velvety texture to the drink. Overall, the Espresso Martini is a well-balanced cocktail that offers a harmonious blend of flavors that is both indulgent and refreshing. The sweetness and bitterness levels can be adjusted according to personal preference by adjusting the amount of liqueur and espresso used in the recipe.
