Espresso Martini

The best cocktail known to man is an espresso martini, at least in my opinion! In the past two years I have become absolutely obsessed with espresso martinis. I am not a huge drinker, and never was fond of many cocktails until I had my first espresso martini, then it was over for me. Ever since, I like to enjoy one on the weekends and seek out the best ones in my city. But there is nothing more disappointing then getting a bad espresso martini, which happens about 50% of the time when I am ordering one from a restaurant. Because of my frustration with this, I learned how to make my own at home, so I am now able to have an excellent one whenever I want!

Shockingly, making an espresso martini at home is actually incredibly easy. I would have thought since most restaurants can’t seem to get it right, that it is difficult to make, but in reality, it is quite simple. Here is how I make a classic version that always turns out great.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions:

• Fresh Espresso – You are going to want to make this martini with the freshest espresso possible. If you don’t have an espresso machine, just go to a coffee shop day of and get some fresh espresso. You can use coffee, however it is not nearly as good, so beware if you are taking this short cut. Espresso is much more concentrated and flavorful, which is what we need to balance the other ingredients.
• Vodka – Vodka is the classic liquor in this cocktail. You can also use tequila or gin, just note the flavors will change.
• Kahlua – Kahlua is a coffee liquor that includes rum, sugar and coffee. It is a must in this drink in my opinion!
• Simple Syrup – simple syrup is a combination of sugar dissolved in water. To make your own, combine equal parts white sugar and equal parts water in a pot and boil until the sugar is dissolved.

Tips for the Best Espresso Martini:

• Use the freshest espresso possible. The fresher the espresso – the better the cocktail and more foamy as well.
• Shake the shit out of it with a lot of ice! This makes the foam on top! The more you shake, the frothier and foamier it is going to be. You want your arms to be tired, that is when you know it is ready!