This Italian Espresso Martini is bold and smooth, made with real espresso, vanilla vodka, Kahlua, and just a touch of Baileys. A perfectly balanced espresso martini recipe with rich coffee flavor and a silky finish.

If you want to try other Italian cocktail recipes, then you should try Limoncello Spritz Recipe and our Italian Negroni.

A coupe glass filled with a dark espresso martini, topped with a thick, frothy layer and garnished with three coffee beans. Scattered coffee beans are visible on the light-colored surface nearby.

Hi! I really can't wait for you to try this one. If you love an espresso martini but don't want it overly creamy or too sweet, this version keeps the coffee flavor front and center with just a splash of Baileys for smoothness.

It's strong, elegant, and feels like something you'd order after dinner in Italy. But you can absolutely make it at home.

Why You'll Love This Italian Espresso Martini

Bold coffee flavor - real espresso shines through without being overpowered.
Lightly creamy, not heavy - just a touch of Baileys for balance.
Warm vanilla depth - vanilla vodka adds subtle sweetness.
Perfect after-dinner cocktail - rich but not too sweet.
Bar-quality at home - fresh espresso makes all the difference.

Ingredients (Full Printable Recipe Below)

1 ounce freshly brewed espresso (hot)
1½ ounces vanilla vodka
1 ounce Kahlua
½ ounce Baileys Irish Cream
Ice cubes
3 coffee beans (for garnish)

A metal cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes is being filled with a brown liquid poured from a measuring glass. Some coffee beans and a jigger are visible in the background.

A hand pours a dark cocktail from a shaker into a coupe glass, topped with a layer of foam. Coffee beans, ice, and bar tools are scattered on a light surface in the background.

A hand holds a small spoon placing coffee beans on the frothy surface of an espresso martini in a coupe glass, with scattered coffee beans and a cocktail shaker in the background.

Step-by-Step: How to Make This Italian Espresso Martini

Step 1: Brew your espresso.
Fresh and hot is key for great foam.

Step 2: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add the espresso, vanilla vodka, Kahlua, and Baileys.

Step 3: Shake vigorously.
Shake for 15-20 seconds until the shaker feels very cold. This creates that creamy frothy top.

Step 4: Strain into a chilled martini glass.
You should see a silky foam layer form instantly.

Step 5: Garnish.
Top with 3 coffee beans for that classic finish.

Recipe Substitutions & Variations

Stronger version: Add an extra ½ ounce vanilla vodka.
Sweeter version: Increase Baileys slightly.
Extra bold coffee flavor: Reduce Baileys to ¼ ounce.
Chocolate twist: Add ½ ounce chocolate liqueur.
Decaf option: Use decaf espresso for a night-time cocktail.

Pro Tips for the Best Espresso Martini

Use freshly brewed espresso. Stale coffee won't foam well.
Shake harder than you think. Foam needs air and agitation.
Chill your martini glass before serving.
Strain immediately to keep the texture smooth.
Serve right away for the best crema layer.

FAQ

Is this espresso martini very sweet?
No. This version leans more coffee-forward with only a hint of creaminess.

Can I skip the Baileys?
Yes. You'll get a more classic, stronger espresso martini without it.

Why isn't my martini foamy?
It usually needs more shaking or fresher espresso.

Can I make it ahead?
You can pre-mix the vodka and Kahlua, but add fresh espresso and shake right before serving.

Freezing & Storing

This cocktail is meant to be made fresh. I don't recommend freezing it.

You can mix the alcohol portion in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add fresh espresso and shake with ice just before serving.

This one is smooth, bold, and just indulgent enough. Perfect for when you want that espresso martini moment without it feeling too heavy.

Did you make this and love it? Please RATE THE RECIPE below:)

I would LOVE IT if you can leave me a star rating and a review down below and let me know your thoughts! It means the world to me to hear how you liked it.

Please Subscribe and give a follow on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and TikTok xx

Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate this Recipe