There’s something quietly decadent about a cocktail that looks like midnight and tastes like dessert. The Espresso Martini is bold yet elegant — the kind of drink that turns an ordinary night into an occasion. Smooth, velvety, and perfectly balanced between coffee and cocktail, it’s proof that these two worlds were always meant to meet.

To make one that looks as good as it tastes, a little technique goes a long way:

• Ice

• 1 1/2 oz.vodka

• 1 oz. coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa 

• 1 oz. or 1 shot espresso or cold brew concentrate

• 1/2 oz. simple syrup

• Espresso powder or cocoa powder and coffee beans, for serving

To make one that looks as good as it tastes, a little technique goes a long way:

• Chill your glass. Slip your martini or coupe glass into the freezer for at least 20 minutes before shaking — the colder the glass, the longer your cocktail stays crisp.
• Shake hard. Really hard. That’s how you get the frothy, café-style foam on top — the signature of a perfect espresso martini.
• Pour swiftly. Don’t let the cocktail rest in the shaker; the foam forms as those tiny air bubbles rise to the surface. Pour right away to capture that glossy layer in your glass, not your shaker.
• Kick the jitters. Use decaf espresso for all the depth and aroma, without sacrificing your sleep.

What You'll Need