9 Creative Espresso Martini Variations to Impress at Your Next Party

The Espresso Martini is a modern classic, created in the 1980s by legendary British bartender Dick Bradsell. The story goes that a customer wanted a drink with enough kick to shake off some late-night cobwebs. The result? A delicious combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso, topped with a layer of crema and three coffee beans symbolizing health, wealth and happiness.  

Today, this bold and sophisticated cocktail is still a popular after-dinner favorite thanks to its rich coffee flavor and smooth, velvety texture. It has also inspired a wide variety of Espresso Martini variations. Here are a few of our favorites.  

1. Hazelnut Espresso Martini

You can give your Espresso Martini a nutty twist with a gorgeous hazelnut liqueur, which adds a lovely warmth and irresistible flavor. This showstopper of a drink is easy to shake up and makes the perfect indulgence for special occasions.  

Make it with: Frangelico (opens in new window) 

2. Parmesan Espresso Martini

Looking for creative Espresso Martini recipes with an umami kick? Then you’ve got to try the Parmesan Espresso Martini (opens in new window). Adding a grating of Parmesan cheese to a cocktail might sound like a wild idea, but cheese and coffee are actually a great combo. Go on, be a little adventurous! 

Make it with: SKYY Vodka (opens in new window) 

More savory goodness: Exploring Umami Cocktails  

3. Mezpresso Martini  

A smoky-meets-tropical Espresso Martini twist, this riff mixes mezcal, banana liqueur, coffee cordial, and cold brew for a bold summer sipper.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Montelobos Mezcal (opens in new window) 

• 1.5 oz Cold brew coffee

• 0.75 oz Banana liqueur

• 0.75 oz Coffee cordial

• 0.5 oz Agave nectar

• 2 dashes Bitters

• Ice

Method

1. Add mezcal, cold brew, banana liqueur, coffee cordial, agave nectar, bitters, and ice to a shaker

2. Shake until frosty

3. Strain into a chilled martini glass

4. Serve immediately

Also see: 10 Beautiful Banana Liqueur Cocktails 

4. Mocha Martini

Arguably the best Espresso Martini for chocolate lovers, the Mocha Martini bridges the delectable gap between the Espresso Martini and the Chocolate Martini. 

Ingredients

• 2 oz Chocolate liqueur

• 2 oz Coffee liqueur

• 1 oz Vodka

• 0.5 oz Milk or milk substitute

• Ice

Method

1. Add chocolate liqueur, coffee liqueur, vodka, milk, and ice to a shaker

2. Shake until frosty

3. Strain into a martini glass

4. Serve immediately

5. Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini

If you love your flavored Espresso Martinis with a bit of zest, we highly recommend the Chocolate Orange Espresso Martini. 

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz SKYY Infusions Citrus (opens in new window) 

• 0.5 oz Crème de cacao

• 0.5 oz Coffee liqueur

• 1 oz Fresh espresso

• Ice

Method

1. Add orange vodka, crème de cacao, coffee liqueur, espresso, and ice to a shaker

2. Shake until well chilled

3. Fine strain into a chilled glass

4. Serve immediately

Also see: The Best Grand Marnier Cocktails & Dessert Recipes 

6. Cold Brew Martini

Try this Cold Brew Martini if you’re a fan of shortcuts that don’t skimp on flavor. An easy-drinking riff on the Espresso Martini, this version swaps espresso for cold brew concentrate for a smoother, less bitter kick.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Cold brew concentrate

• 2 oz Coffee liqueur

• 2 oz SKYY Vodka

• Ice

Method

1. Add cold brew concentrate, coffee liqueur, vodka, and ice to a cocktail shaker

2. Shake vigorously until well chilled

3. Strain into a chilled martini glass

4. Serve immediately

Read next: Feel Like Royalty with these 10 Classic British Cocktails 

7. Aperitivo Espresso

Looking for an Espresso Martini that’s a great pre-dinner serve?  Meet the Aperitivo Espresso, bestie! 

Ingredients

• 1 oz Vodka

• 1 oz Fresh coffee

• 1.5 oz Tonic water

• Ice

• Garnish: Orange twist

Method

1. Fill a wine glass with ice

2. Add vodka and coffee

3. Top with tonic water

4. Stir gently to combine

5. Garnish with an orange twist

You might also like: 26 Types of Martinis You Should Know 

8. Espresso Daiquiri

Love Espresso Martini flavors, but want to try rum as your base? The good news is that you totally can by making an Espresso Daiquiri! 

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Appleton Estate Rum (opens in new window) 

• 1 oz Fresh espresso

• 0.5 oz Simple syrup

• Ice

Method

1. Add rum, espresso, simple syrup, and ice to a shaker

2. Shake until well combined and frosty

3. Fine strain into a chilled coupe glass

4. Serve immediately

9. The Benevolent

Make an Espresso Martini laced with tequila for some Mexican swagger! 

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Espolòn Tequila Blanco (opens in new window) 

• 0.5 oz Simple syrup

• 0.5 oz Averna Amaro (opens in new window)

• 1 oz Cold brew coffee

• 1 Egg white

• Dash Bitters

• Ice

Method

1. Add tequila, simple syrup, Averna, cold brew, egg white, bitters, and ice to a shaker

2. Shake until frosty and foamy

3. Strain into a chilled glass

4. Serve immediately

Expert tips and techniques

Achieving the perfect frothy top

To get that signature frothy top, use freshly brewed espresso. The fresher the coffee, the more crema you’ll get out of it. Shake the cocktail vigorously in a shaker with ice to aerate the mixture and get a beautiful, velvety foam. To serve, strain into a chilled glass, and you’ll have a perfectly frothy top every time. 

Best types of coffee to use

Choosing the right coffee is key to nailing different Espresso Martini variations. For a classic, rich flavor, go for a medium to dark roast, which brings out deeper, more intense coffee notes. If you’re experimenting with lighter, fruity variations, try a less intense roast to highlight the coffee’s natural acidity and fruity undertones. Cold brew is also a great option for a smoother, less acidic taste. 

Balancing sweetness and bitterness

Getting the balance just right between sweetness and bitterness is key for making a perfect Espresso Martini. If your drink is too bitter, try adding a touch more coffee liqueur or simple syrup. You can also play around with flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel for something a little different. Remember, the right amount of sweetness should complement the bitterness of the coffee, setting the scene for a harmonious and satisfying sip. 

Garnishing ideas

Elevate your Espresso Martini with eye-catching garnishes. The classic garnish is three coffee beans, but there are plenty of creative ways to top your cocktail and add more flavor. 

• Add a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color and a fresh aroma. Chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder can add a sweet, indulgent touch. 

• A twist of orange peel adds a citrusy zing.  

• For a unique twist, use flavored syrups to create delicate patterns or swirls on top of the foam. 

Pairing suggestions

• Chocolate desserts: Pair with rich chocolate torte, brownies, or dark chocolate mousse for a decadent experience that pairs perfectly with the espresso and cocoa flavors. 

• Tiramisu: The classic coffee-flavored Italian dessert complements the espresso notes in the Martini, creating a deliciously cohesive taste experience. 

• Cheese plate: Enjoy with bold, aged cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese; the cocktail’s bitterness contrasts nicely with the cheese’s creamy texture. 

• Almond biscotti: A light and crunchy pairing that highlights the cocktail’s coffee flavors without overwhelming the palate. 

• Vanilla panna cotta: The creamy, subtle sweetness of panna cotta balances the boldness of the Espresso Martini, creating a delightful contrast that you’ll love 

There you have it – our insider collection of top Espresso Martini variations, along with a few insights on making it like a pro (even if you are a complete noob!). Sign up for our newsletter to receive more inspiration each month and visit the SKYY Vodka website (opens in new window) for more cocktail tips and tricks.