International Coffee Day with SKYY: 5 Delicious Espresso-Infused Vodka Cocktails

International Coffee Day is the perfect excuse for coffee lovers across America to come together and celebrate their favorite brew. From the invigorating scent of a morning cup of Joe to the rich flavors of an afternoon pick-me-up, coffee is more than just a warm beverage—it’s a ritual. This year, why not take your love of coffee up a notch with espresso-infused vodka cocktails? SKYY Infusions Espresso will turn your Coffee Day celebrations into something truly special. Its rich, robust taste is reminiscent of brewed espresso and captures the essence of roasted coffee beans. Simply wonderful! 

1. SKYY Infusions Espresso Martini 

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 coffee-infused vodka cocktail is still a popular after-dinner favorite thanks to its rich coffee flavor and smooth, velvety texture. Here’s our go-to recipe with SKYY Infusions Espresso. 

INGREDIENTS 

• 1.5 oz SKYY Infusions Espresso  

• 1 oz Cold brew concentrate or espresso 

• 0.75 oz Simple syrup 

• 3 Coffee beans, to garnish 

• Ice 

METHOD 

1. Add the vodka, cold brew concentrate or espresso and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker 
2. Shake with plenty of ice for about 30 seconds 
3. Double strain into a chilled Martini glass 
4. Garnish with coffee beans, and serve 

Learn more: 9 Creative Espresso Martini Variations (Classic and Unique Recipes) 

2. Espresso Hazelnut Martini

INGREDIENTS 

• 1.5 oz SKYY Infusions Espresso 

• 1.5 oz Cold brew concentrate or espresso 

• 0.5 oz Frangelico  

• 0.25 oz Simple syrup  

• 3 Coffee beans, to garnish  

• Ice 

METHOD  

1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker 
2. Shake with plenty of ice for about 30 seconds 
3. Double strain into a chilled Martini glass  
4. Garnish with coffee beans, and serve 

Read next: 9 Best Coffee Cocktails to End your Evening with a Kick  

3. Cold Brew Vodka Negroni

This recipe replaces gin with vodka for a tasty, caffeinated twist on the original Negroni. 

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 oz Campari  

• 1 oz SKYY Vodka 

• 1 oz 1757 Vermouth di Torino Rosso  

• 1 Tablespoon freshly ground coffee beans  

• Coffee filter   

• Orange twist and coffee beans to garnish  

• Large ice cube 

METHOD  

1. Add the vodka, Campari and vermouth to a mixing glass and stir well to combine  
2. Add the freshly ground coffee to a filter paper  
3. Pour the cocktail mix through the coffee filter into a rocks glass with one large ice cube 
4. Garnish with an orange twist and coffee beans, then serve 

Also see: 20 Negroni Variations: Unique Recipes to Try at Home  

4. Aperitivo Espresso

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 oz SKYY Vodka  

• 1 oz Coffee 

• 1.5 oz Tonic water 

• Orange peel, to garnish 

• Ice 

METHOD 

1. Add ice to a large wine glass, then pour in the vodka and coffee 
2. Top with tonic water 
3. Garnish with an orange peel, and serve 

5. Espresso White Russian

INGREDIENTS 

• 1 oz SKYY Vodka 

• 1 oz Coffee liqueur 

• 1 oz Espresso coffee, cooled 

• 0.5 oz Heavy cream  

• Ice 

METHOD 

1. Fill a rocks glass with ice 
2. Pour in the vodka, coffee liqueur and espresso, and stir 
3. Add the heavy cream and stir again to combine 
4. Serve immediately 

Cheers, dears! 10 White Russian Variations to Try at Home  

Elevate your International Coffee Day

Want to make this International Coffee Day one to remember? Here are a few insider tips on hosting a celebration that’s all about good vibes, great drinks, and delicious food. Create an atmosphere that brings people together by setting up a cocktail bar featuring coffee-infused delights, paired with the perfect bites and a stylish setting.  

Here’s your guide to throwing a fantastic coffee-themed party. 

Drinks

• Make SKYY Infusions Espresso the star. With its bold taste and rich aroma of freshly brewed espresso, SKYY captures the essence of roasted coffee beans – and that’s exactly what you’re after when choosing a good quality coffee infused vodka. Balanced, bold and perfect for coffee cocktails.
• Cocktail bar. Set up a DIY cocktail bar featuring SKYY Infusions Espresso. Offer guests the chance to mix their own coffee-inspired cocktails or provide a few easy-to-follow recipes for them to try. Stock the bar with quality mixers like tonic water, soda, and syrups to give guests plenty of options for crafting their signature coffee cocktail. 
• Non-alcoholic options. Include some non-alcoholic choices like cold brew coffee, iced lattes, or coffee-flavored soda. This ensures that everyone can join in the celebration. 

Also see: 17 Irresistible Coupe Glass Cocktails  

Food

• Sweet treats. Coffee pairs wonderfully with desserts, so stock up on treats like tiramisu, coffee-flavored macarons, and dark chocolate truffles. The rich, bold flavors of these sweets will enhance the coffee notes in your cocktails, making each sip and bite a perfect match. 
• Savory bites. Balance out the sweetness with savory options. Cheese platters featuring aged cheddar, gouda, or even a creamy brie offer a nice contrast to the coffee flavors. Small bites like smoked salmon crostini or roasted nuts with a hint of spice will keep your guests satisfied and complement the cocktails beautifully. 

Also see: 7 Best Coffee Tequila Cocktails to Try in 2024 

Décor

• Color palette. Set the scene with décor in shades of rich brown and cream to mirror the color of coffee. Tablecloths, napkins, and even balloons in these hues create a cozy, inviting ambiance that coffee lovers will feel right at home in. 

• Coffee-themed accents. Add some fun touches with coffee bean centerpieces, vintage coffee mugs, and warm, ambient lighting. Use coffee sacks as table runners or wall hangings to give your space a chic, rustic feel. Candles with scents of vanilla or coffee can also enhance the atmosphere and tie everything together. 

• Personal touches. Customize the space with personal touches like a coffee menu board featuring your cocktail and food pairings, or even a photo booth area with coffee-related props.  

It’s clear that using SKYY Infusions Espresso in your coffee cocktails is the ultimate way to celebrate International Coffee Day, thanks to its versatile and rich coffee flavor. Whether you’re crafting cocktails or pairing them with delicious bites, there’s no limit to the fun you can have. Try these recipes, share your creations on social media, and tag SKYY Vodka to join the celebration! Ready to get started? Purchase SKYY Infusions Espresso online or at local retailers. Visit SKYY Vodka to learn more.