Hey there, coffee and Baileys fans! This Baileys Espresso Martini is about to become your go-to cocktail for any occasion. It’s creamy, smooth, and has that perfect mix of coffee kick and sweet Baileys goodness.
Whether you’re ending dinner with a treat or spicing up a cozy night in, this drink is always a hit. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make.
Let’s get shaking!
What You’ll Need
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (or strong coffee), chilled
- 1/2 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
- Ice cubes
- Optional: coffee beans for garnish
Pro Tips
- Chill the Espresso: Make sure your espresso or coffee is completely chilled before shaking to keep the drink cold and creamy.
- Shake it Like You Mean It: Shake the cocktail shaker hard for at least 15 seconds to create that frothy foam on top—it’s worth the effort!
- Chill the Glass: Pop your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes before serving. A frosty glass makes all the difference.
- Customize the Sweetness: If you like it a little sweeter, add a splash of simple syrup.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Martini glass
Substitutions and Variations
- No Vodka? Swap it for rum or tequila for a unique twist.
- Non-Dairy Option: Use a dairy-free Irish cream like Baileys Almande.
- Extra Chocolatey: Add 1/2 oz of chocolate liqueur or a dash of cocoa powder for a chocolate espresso martini.
- Mocktail Version: Replace vodka and coffee liqueur with a splash of vanilla syrup or hazelnut syrup for a creamy coffee mocktail.
How to Make a Baileys Espresso Martini
1. Fill the shaker with ice
Add a handful of ice cubes to your cocktail shaker.
2. Add the ingredients
Pour in 1 oz Baileys, 1 oz vodka, 1 oz chilled espresso, and 1/2 oz coffee liqueur.
3. Shake it up
Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until the drink is well chilled and frothy.
4. Strain into a glass
Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass, holding back the ice.
5. Garnish and serve
Top with three coffee beans arranged in a triangle (optional) and enjoy!
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
- No Leftovers Here: This cocktail is best made fresh, as the foam and flavors are at their peak right after shaking.
- Make Ahead: You can pre-mix Baileys, vodka, coffee liqueur, and chilled espresso in advance. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then shake with ice when ready to serve.
Conclusion
And there you have it—the ultimate Baileys Espresso Martini! It’s rich, creamy, and so simple to whip up. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this cocktail will always hit the spot. Try it out and let me know how you liked it in the comments below. Cheers to good drinks and great vibes! ☕🍸