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–+ servings
coupe with a dark brown cocktail and three coffee in the foam on a tray surrounded by scattered coffee beans.
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5 from 1 vote

Gin Espresso Martini

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This Gin Espresso Martini swaps vodka for gin, adding a botanical twist to the classic cocktail. Fresh espresso, coffee liqueur, and a few dashes of chocolate bitters round out the flavors, creating a drink that’s rich, smooth, and unexpected. It’s an espresso martini variation to try for coffee lovers looking for something different.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time5 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: British
Servings: 1 cocktail
Calories: 175kcal
Author: Joanne Stekler

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce strong espresso slightly cooled to avoid burns
  • 1 ounce Tanqueray or other dry gin
  • 1 ounce Kahlua or other coffee liqueur
  • 2 dashes chocolate bitters suggested, but optional
  • 3 coffee beans for garnish

Instructions

  • Make the espresso with instant coffee or brew a strong cup per your espresso maker. Let it cool slightly.
  • Combine the gin, espresso, coffee liqueur and bitters into a cocktail shaker packed with ice and shake for 10 seconds to chill. Strain out the ice and dry shake hard for about 30 seconds to create your foam.
    1 ounce strong espresso, 1 ounce Tanqueray or other dry gin, 1 ounce Kahlua or other coffee liqueur, 2 dashes chocolate bitters
  • Strain into a martini or coupe glass and garnish with three coffee beans
    3 coffee beans

Notes

Gin choice matters: Use a gin with subtle botanicals that complement the coffee, like a citrus-forward or lightly spiced gin, rather than one with strong piney flavors.
A freshly pulled shot of espresso is always best in an espresso martini, but you can make it with espresso powder or (horrors) instant coffee.
The purpose of the reverse dry shake is to get a foam that reminds you of your favorite espresso drink but without diluting it. Shake hard!
Variation #1: While this recipe is for an espresso martini with gin, you can make a classic espresso martini cocktail with an equal amount of vodka.

Nutrition

Calories: 175kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 33mg | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 1mg