Espresso Martini, anyone?
If you’re looking for a buzz to excite and pick you up but also put you at ease at the same time, then it's time that you ask your barista or your bartender for an espresso martini, or as others call it, espressotini. But in the time of a pandemic, better make it yourself and while you're at it, take it to the next level! So, let us entice you more with this perfect blend of caffeine and alcohol that you'll likely crave this weekend!
But first, you might ask, what is an espresso martini? Well, that depends since there are so many variations of this drink that there isn't really a generally accepted recipe! Although as long as you secure the key ingredients: espresso and vodka, you should be set.
The best espresso martinis are usually made with real espresso. You can even use Turkish coffee for that stronger and richer caffeine taste, it's known as the Turkish coffee cocktail! Whichever you use, if you're making one at home, be sure to let the coffee cool to room temperature before adding it to your cocktail shaker. Adding ice to cool down your espresso will just give you watered-down espresso, so don't!
The vodka in an espresso martini is almost always of the flavored variety. The most popular option is using vanilla vodka and adding a coffee liqueur. But now there are espresso flavored vodkas available as well. Whether you use unflavored vodka, vanilla or espresso just remember that you don't want to use gin. It's true that martinis are made with gin but it really doesn't taste great when mixed with espresso.
Once the vodka and the espresso are added, this is where all the variations come into play. Some people like to add a splash of Grand Marnier, while other recipes call for Tia Maria or Amaretto. Even chocolate liqueurs can be added if you prefer the taste of a mochaccino to a regular espresso. If you like the taste of one of these liqueurs and you think it will go with your espresso martini then give it a try. Whatever you choose, be sure to only use a splash because the main purpose of this additional liqueur is to add a just hint of flavor. You don't want to overpower the primary flavors of the martini!
The one thing that almost all espresso martini recipes agree on is the garnish. Three espresso beans will top your drink off properly. The rules for garnishes say that odd amounts are lucky so go with one, three, or five beans. Oops, this one below needs one more bean!
Enjoy your espresso martini!