Espresso Martini with Kahlua

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This recipe for Espresso Martini with Kahlua is so easy to make and will be your go-to martini recipe! Save money and make this delicious cocktail at home!

Espresso Martini with Kahlua in a martini class with a bottle of Kahlua in the background.

The espresso martini is definitely having its moment, and for good reason! It’s absolutely delicious and so easy to make.

You’ll never pay restaurant prices for a cocktail again once you see how easy and affordable it is so make at home.

And, if you love delicious classic cocktails, don’t miss this Cranberry Moscow Mule recipe or this Apple Cider Moscow Mule. For you Kahlua fans out there, be sure to check out this irresistible Tiramisu with Kahlua recipe!

Table of Contents

Why this Espresso Martini is the BEST!

Once sip and you’ll agree that this Espresso Martini with Kahlua recipe is the best. And, even better, it’s super simple to make at home.

Many other recipes call for a whole list of ingredients. Here, I keep the recipe simple with equal parts of Kahlua, vodka, and espresso. That way you can really taste the flavors of the coffee rather than added ingredients.

Kahlua is the best for espresso martinis because it adds a creaminess without actually having to add extra cream. Plus the smooth coffee liqueur flavor really enhances the espresso taste.

espresso martini with kahlua in a martini glass with espresso beans on top.

Not only is this recipe deliciously and simple, it’s also super easy to make a single drink, or enough for a crowd. Because the ingredients are all equal parts, you can easily double or triple this recipe when needed.

Ingredients

Only three ingredients are needed to make the most delicious Espresso Martini. Here all you need is Kahlua, espresso, and vodka.

Kahlua: Kahlua is a rum and coffee liqueur that has a smooth and dark finish. It’s pairs perfectly with espresso martinis and is a great way to add creamy flavor without the cream.
Espresso: if you have the ability to brew fresh espresso for this, great! However, for those of you don’t have an espresso maker, you can always use strong black coffee. Or, get instant espresso powder and make espresso according to package instructions.
Vodka: in my opinion, Tito’s Vodka is the best and the one I always use. However, feel free to whatever vodka you have on hand.

Read on to see how simple it is to make this delicious cocktail!

How to Make Espresso Martini with Kahlua

One sip and you’ll agree that this espresso martini is the best. Plus, you can make it at home with just three ingredients.

To start, you will need to brew your espresso. If you don’t have espresso, use one of the options listed above such as instant espresso or strong black coffee.

overhead photo of cocktail shaker with ice cubes and a cup of espresso next to it.

Then, add in equal parts (2 ounces each for one serving) of espresso, Kahlua, and vodka. Place the top back on the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for at least 20 seconds.

To make this a truly special drink, you really need to shake the ingredients together. That is what is going to get you that gorgeous white foamy top.

espresso martini with Kahlua being poured from cocktail shaker into martini glass.

Remove the top lid off of the cocktail shaker and strain the drink into your martini glass. Of course a martini glass isn’t necessary here, but it somehow just makes the drink so much more delicious!

close up of foamy top of an espresso martini with espresso beans place on top.

Finish off the cocktail with a few espresso or coffee beans placed on top. This is optional but makes for a pretty presentation.

Recipe Tips and FAQs

Use a good quality vodka with your martini. I like Tito’s or Grey Goose.
Kahlua is my go-to with espresso martinis, but you can use other coffee-flavored liqueurs if that’s what you have on hand.
Shake the martini in the cocktail shaker with lots of ice vigorously for 20 seconds. If you don’t shake your espresso martini, you won’t get that delicious foam on top of it.
Need to make martinis for a crowd? Mix together 3 equal parts of the ingredients in a large pitcher, then just pour into cocktail shaker with ice when you’re ready to make a drink.

What’s in an Espresso Martini?

While there are many variations out there, an espresso martini is simply equal parts of vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur like Kahlua. The ingredients are then placed in a cocktail shaker with ice and then strained into a martini glass.

Can you make an Espresso Martini with coffee?

Espresso martinis can be made without an espresso maker. You can use strong black coffee instead, or even store-bought iced coffee. Instant espresso powder also works, just brew the espresso according to package instructions.

What if I don’t have a cocktail shaker?

It’s always good to have a cocktail shaker if you plan on making a lot of cocktails. However, you can always use a stainless steel coffee mug with a lid to shake up your martini. Just be sure the lid is on tight and strain it so you don’t get any ice in the drink.

Espresso Martini with Kahlua in a martini glass on a wood surface with a checkered napkin.

Cocktail Inspired Desserts

Check out some of my favorite desserts featuring different cocktail flavors:

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