A classic espresso martini gets a decadent tropical twist with the addition of coconut. The drink combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso with coconut cream and simple syrup to create a refreshing cocktail with a touch of salt. It is the perfect beverage for coffee and coconut lovers looking for a unique treat.
This cocktail uses freshly brewed espresso and the popular Kahlua coffee liqueur to create a rich and creamy drink that can be enjoyed any time of day. The addition of the Coconut Espresso Martini milk adds a tropical element that will transport you to a relaxing beachside retreat. The cocktail is served in a coupe glass with a toasted coconut garnish that adds another level of sweetness to the drink.
To make the toasted coconut rim, first prepare a small bowl of shredded coconut in the oven. Heat the coconut in the oven until it becomes dehydrated, but not completely dry. Once the coconut is ready, transfer it to a small plate and set aside. To make the drink, combine the coffee liqueur, vodka, espresso, and coconut cream in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake vigorously. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass and top with a toasted coconut garnish.
Espresso Martinis have been a staple on many bar menus throughout the decades and it’s easy to see why. They offer a potent mix of alcohol and caffeine to give you a quick pick-me-up when you need it. The Espresso Martini doesn’t stray far from the typical template found in other classic cocktails, such as the Manhattan or the Old Fashioned; it just replaces the sweet vermouth with the stronger coffee flavor of espresso.
While tastes differ when it comes to adding sugar in drinks, the Espresso Martini does require a little added sweetness for balance. The recipe includes 1/4 ounce of simple syrup in addition to the Kahlua, but you could easily reduce or even remove the additional sugar for a less-sweet, more coffee-forward beverage.
If you are making this cocktail for a group, be sure to have plenty of chilled martini glasses on hand. There is nothing worse than a warm martini glass! I highly recommend this set of Joy Jolt short martini glasses or this Crafthouse by Fortessa tall martini glass. They both have a nice curved shape to them that will help keep the drink cool and they are both dishwasher safe for fast and easy cleanup.