This recipe is NOT a knock on Dick Bradsell or what he created in the 1980s. The Espresso Martini is a good cocktail. The story of how and why it was made is also very fantastic.

BUT…….

Vodka is a boring choice of spirit in this cocktail. Its only purpose is to make it a boozy drink.

Using rum, tequila, mezcal, whiskey, or even cognac will make this cocktail delicious.

Espresso martini up close
Espresso Martini Up Close

Why Do I Use Cognac in My Espresso Martini Recipe?

I want to thank Anders Erickson for this. We were hanging out one night, and he told me he started using Cognac for the past several years because it pairs very well with coffee, giving it a more robust and flavorful drinking experience.

He even told me he likes adding a lemon peel to the shaking process to brighten up the martini. I do like doing that, but here in Iowa, when I have made that way for people, they weren’t huge fans.

Espresso martini ingredients
Espresso Martini Ingredients

How to Make My Favorite Espresso Martini Recipe

Espresso Martini Recipe

Recipe by Carl Busch
5.0 from 2 votes
Course: BeverageCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

1

servings
Prep time

2

minutes
Cooking time

1

minute
Calories

NA

kcal
Total time

3

minutes

This is my favorite recipe for an espresso martini.

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Ingredients

Directions

  • Combine all ingredients in a shaking tin.
  • Add ice.
  • Shake hard for 12 seconds.
  • Double strain into a chilled Nick and Nora glass.
  • Garnish with three coffee beans.

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6 Comments

  1. The heading states “no vodka”. The recipe includes Mr. Black. Are you aware that Mr. Black is made with vodka?

    1. We LOVE Mr Black and are aware. I get where you are coming from BUT I don’t believe it’s me adding vodka to the drink. Here is my thought about that. Gin is infused vodka and that’s how I look at Mr Black.

    2. How much did Mr Black pay you for this
      Mr black is nothing but coffee vodka and sugar in a bottle.
      All you’re doing to paying them for simple syrup and coffee

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