Espresso martinis are even better with a seasonal flavor twist.
From the three coffee beans to the perfect foam, espresso martinis are always a delectable cocktail. While the simple sipper should always be coffee forward, the popular beverage can get a seasonal flavor twist. These specialty recipes bring the merriment to any occasion.
The espresso martini continues to have a moment. While Absolut has been inspired by Sabrina Carpenter, that Short n’ Sweet Espresso Martini captures the zeitgeist of the moment. Even though people are signing the praises of that special martini recipe, it is only one example of the specialty cocktail.
Usually during the holiday season, the certain flavors take over the menu. Now that pumpkin has left the glass, it is time for peppermint, spices and more. Cozy, comforting flavors are front and center.
One simple idea is the Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini. Easy to make thanks to La Colombe’s Draft Peppermint Mocha, the cocktail almost feels like an indulgent dessert. Sweet, yet still coffee forward, the cocktail is perfect with some holiday cookies, a slice of pie, or even a lovely crème brulee.
Here’s how to make the Peppermint Mocha Espresso Martini.
Ingredients
3oz La Colombe Draft Latte Peppermint Mocha
2oz Vodka
1oz Coffee Liqeur
Instructions
In a shake filled with ice, add all ingredients and shake
Strain into chilled Martini glass
While the peppermint forward cocktail is bright and refreshing, peanut butter continues to take over the cocktail glass. Although it might not be time for basting or pulling out that gravy boat, a peanut butter forward espresso martini is a touch whimsical.
This offering from Chica~Chida has a touch of nuttiness but is also creamy and indulgent. While this version opts for a traditional Baileys Irish cream, it also works with the chocolate version or even the seasonal cinnamon churro variety.
Here’s how to make the Peanut Butter Destresso Martini
Ingredients:
1.5oz Chica~Chida
.5oz Cazcabel Coffee Liqueur
1oz Espresso
.25oz Baileys Irish Cream
Instructions:
In a shaker, combine Chica~Chida, Cazcabel Coffee Liqueur, espresso and Baileys Irish Cream with ice.
Shake well until chilled then strain into a glass.
As some people know, a Mexican hot chocolate has an underlying spice that makes it feel totally indulgent. As Gruene’s LastCall, a women-owned Texas cocktail lounge, their espresso martini, Espresso Yo’self, includes some chili spices. The combination of heat, sweet, and even a touch of creaminess makes this cocktail the perfect toast to end the night.
The cocktail’s creator, Corey Liker, Gruene’s Last Call bartender said, “I didn’t want to make an everyday espresso martini, I wanted to test the boundaries and create something unique and memorable. Grand Brulot was the obvious choice for my vision. I went for a Mexican mocha vibe with my cocktail, combining sweet, savory and spicy all into one.”
Espresso Yo’self
Ingredients:
Grand Brulot
Anejo Tequila
Agricanto
Coconut puree
House Demerara syrup
Housemade ancho chili and habanero bitters
Method:
Shaken - chilled with ice while building cocktail, dump ice - Nick & Nora Glassware - garnished with 3 coffee beans
Alternative to spicy: Aztec Mole Bitters in replacement of the ancho and habanero bitters
Just like the morning coffee gets a seasonal flavor twist, the espresso martini can get an ingredient swap, too. Ready to get shaking and sipping?