This espresso martini with Baileys is my go-to post-dinner cocktail. It has the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and coffee flavor with a boozy kick.
If you can’t live without coffee, this cocktail is a must-try. I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t like my take on this creamy cocktail.
Sure, it’s not the classic recipe for espresso martini, but it doesn’t matter.
I think it tastes even better!
I love the creaminess that Baileys adds to the traditional espresso martini.
And it only calls for 3-4 ingredients you probably already have at home.
There’s no reason you shouldn’t whip up this espresso martini with Baileys tonight!
Espresso Martini with Baileys
A classic espresso martini combines espresso, coffee liqueur, and vodka. This recipe takes it to another level and uses Baileys instead of coffee liqueur.
This version of the espresso martini still has a strong coffee flavor. The only differences are the added richness and subtle chocolate taste of Baileys.
Do you like your cocktails on the creamier, more decadent side? Good! This recipe is perfect for you.
It’s a dessert cocktail, perfect for an after-dinner treat.
It’s also ideal if you don’t have coffee liqueur on hand!
And did I mention that it’s a breeze to make? You’ll only need three ingredients; four, if you count the optional coffee bean garnish.
Fun Fact– A classic martini is a blend of gin and vermouth. But an espresso martini uses espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur.
That said, an espresso martini isn’t a true martini. Honestly, I’m not sure how it got away with its name!
Ingredients
- Ice Cubes: For a delicious chilled drink. Strain out the ice cubes after shaking the ingredients together, though. This way, the ice won’t melt into your martini.
- Pro Tip- Use coffee ice cubes for an extra espresso-y flavor!
- Baileys: I use the classic Irish Cream flavor because that’s what I always have on hand. And it is delectable.
- But for a strong coffee flavor, use Espresso Creme. You can always try other flavors!
- Espresso: High-quality, fresh-brewed coffee is vital for achieving a robust, delicious coffee flavor.
- Cool it to room temperature. You can refrigerate or freeze it to speed things up.
- You can also use instant coffee in a pinch. Decaf also works, especially if you plan on drinking the martini before bedtime.
- Vodka: It doesn’t have to be expensive vodka. As long as you like it, it’ll do. You can also experiment with flavored vodkas but be sure they pair well with coffee.
- Coffee Beans: An optional garnish, but it’s a classic. The garnish of three beans has meaning. It’s said to represent happiness, health, and wealth.
How to Make Espresso Martini with Baileys
1. Chill your cocktail glass.
Give it 30-45 minutes in the freezer. So it stays nice and cold as you drink your martini.
2. Make the espresso.
Or, use instant coffee if you don’t have a machine. Mix a teaspoon of coffee powder into 25ml water for a strong flavor.
Allow the espresso to cool to room temperature before starting the drink.
3. Combine the ingredients and shake.
Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Pour the Baileys, vodka, and espresso into the shaker. Shake firmly for 15-30 seconds.
4. Garnish and enjoy.
Strain the espresso martini into the chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with three coffee beans. Enjoy!
How Do You Get the Creamy Top on an Espresso Martini?
Espresso martini gets its creamy foam topping from machine-brewed espresso. It’s the reason using freshly brewed espresso is super important!
It’s also important to shake the ingredients vigorously in a cocktail shaker. Shake for at least 15 seconds.
This aerates the mixture, making it even foamier.
Tips for the Best Espresso Martini
- Chill your martini glass in the freezer for 30-45 minutes before using it. This will keep your martini nice and cold as you’re drinking it.
- Shake the shaker forcefully. Go for at least 15-20 seconds to get that creamy foam on top.
- Let the espresso cool to room temperature. Otherwise, it’ll melt the ice.
- Add plenty of ice to the shaker. Warm martinis are a no-no.
Variations
- Liquor: Use flavored vodka like caramel, chocolate, or vanilla for added flavor. You can also use rum, gin, or whiskey instead.
- Baileys: I use classic Irish Cream liqueur. But you can also use chocolate, salted caramel, or coffee-flavored Baileys.
- Espresso: Use strong instant coffee or cold brew concentrate instead of espresso in a pinch.
- Garnish: The classic garnish is three coffee beans on top. But you can also finish it with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings.
- Extra strong: add 40ml (just under 1.5 ounces) of vodka instead of 25.
- Extra caffeine: add a splash of Kahlua or Tia Maria coffee liqueur.
- No caffeine: use decaf coffee. Your martini might be less foamy on top. But at least it won’t keep you up all night.
- Extra creamy: add 1/2 ounce of cream or half and half.
- Traditional espresso martini: skip the Baileys and add 1/2 ounce of Kahlua and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup.
Easy Espresso Martini with Baileys
1
servings5
minutesLove coffee and alcohol? Try this Espresso Martini with Baileys! It is an easy, yet elegant, cocktail that impresses with its creamy and delicious taste.
Ingredients
- Tools
Cocktail shaker
Chilled cocktail glass
- Ingredients
Ice
50 ml Baileys Original Irish Cream (just over 1.5 ounces)
25 ml espresso (just under 1 ounce)
25 ml vodka (just under 1 ounce)
Coffee beans, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Pour the Baileys, espresso, and vodka into the shaker. Shake vigorously for 15-30 seconds.
- Strain the martini into a cocktail glass. Garnish with coffee beans. Enjoy!
