ESPRESSO MARTINI FAQ

How do I get the perfect froth / foam?

Easy – just shake the ingredients with lots of ice for at least 20 seconds. The more you shake, the more microfoam builds up, giving you that velvety froth when you pour it into your glass.

What does Kahlúa add to the espresso martini, flavor-wise?

Kahlúa adds sweetness to your Espresso Martini, balancing out the other ingredients. And it helps create that velvety mouth-feel.

What’s a non-alcoholic alternative to Kahlúa in an espresso martini?

As Kahlúa adds the sweetness and heavy mouth-feel, you’ll need an alternative for that sensory experience. Try using one part syrup (we recommend either chocolate or vanilla).

How do I make my espresso martini feel more creamy?

The froth / foam gives you that creamy, velvety mouth-feel. So make sure you’re shaking up a good froth / foam for at least 20 seconds. That’ll do it. 

What if I don’t have a coffee machine?

That’s okay, regular coffee also works. You can use a home coffee pod machine, or you can find other ways of making the espresso, including mixing it up yourself.

If you’re using regular coffee, instead of espresso, you’ll need to use less water, as the intensity will differ. Also, if you’re using filtered coffee, just know that the froth / foam won’t be as thick and creamy. 

What’s the best coffee roast for espresso?

Espresso (freshly) roasted coffee! Using good quality medium roasted beans, which you can grind up yourself at home, also works well.

Why should I shake my espresso martini?

Shaking helps build up the microfoam. It does this by creating those tiny air bubbles, which give your Espresso Martini a creamier mouth-feel. Just as important as getting the flavors right.

I don’t have a shaker. What can I use?

You don’t need one! Use anything with a well-fitting lid, like a protein shaker, mason jar, etc. Just make sure the lid is screwed on tight, to stop it getting messy.

What type of ice should I use to shake the ingredients with? 

Any ice will do! Try making ice out of filtered water, for the best result. Or, better still, trying experimenting with ice cubes made from your favorite filtered coffee, for a stronger coffee flavor.

What should the perfect espresso martini taste like?

A well-mixed Espresso Martini is sweet, with a velvety mouth-feel. It has a pleasant coffee aftertaste with subtle notes of toffee. Mixing it properly ensures a good balance between the sweet and bitter ingredients:  

1 part Kahlúa Original

1 part Absolut vodka 

1 part Espresso

Why do I need to strain my espresso martini? 

Straining removes the shards of ice after shaking. It also helps your cocktail look clearer. You don’t need a special cocktail strainer; a tea strainer works just as well. 

What do the three coffee beans mean? 

Many people like to finish off their Espresso Martini’s by adding three coffee beans on top of the froth / foam. They stand for health, wealth and happiness.

What food can I pair with an espresso martini?

Espresso Martini’s are perfect for brunch. Why not try one with pancakes, avocado toast or bagels?