This Baileys espresso martini takes a twist on the classic by adding Baileys, making it rich and decadent dessert cocktail.
When it comes to desserts, one of my favorite ways to enjoy it is in cocktail form - from a white chocolate martini to a gingerbread martini to a salted caramel martini.
And while the original espresso martini is great on its own, let's be honest, adding Baileys makes everything better. You can add 1 tablespoon of homemade hot chocolate mix for some chocolate flavor.
Why This Cocktail Works
- It is a perfect cocktail to celebrate during the holidays or a date night.
- By adding Baileys, it is a creamier version of the espresso martini.
- It can be prepared in under 5 minutes and it works as a dessert on its own or a dessert cocktail.
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Ingredient Notes
- Irish cream - I always have Baileys but a store-brand works just as well. You could also make your own.
- Vodka - you want to use quality vodka like Grey Goose or Belvedere. This just is used to up the booze a little bit.
- Kahlúa - adds a strong coffee flavor with subtle notes of caramel and vanilla. You can also use other coffee liqueurs like Mr. Black or Tia Maria.
- Espresso – use a strong espresso coffee, preferably brewed in a machine so get that noted flavor.
- Simple syrup - adds a slight sweetness and mellows out the flavors of the coffee. You can buy or make your own, which means boiling equal parts sugar and water and then letting cool.
- Coffee beans - just used as a garnish.
Step-by-Step Photos
Please note full ingredient list and instructions for this cocktail can be found in recipe card below.
Mix all of the ingredients in a martini shaker with some ice. Shake very hard for 30 seconds and strain quickly in a martini glass so you get that foam. Top with coffee beans if desired.
FAQs
The key to a frothy martini is to use freshly brewed espresso which creates that foam on top. Why not as pronounced, you can use Instant espresso in a pinch.
You can also use egg whites. Egg whites will have very little effect on the cocktail's taste. They add a nice rich, silky, foam texture. So it is all about preference.
If you want some foam but are concerned about raw egg, you can try Ms. Better's Bitters. It is vegan and actually works in creating foam!
Simple syrup is one part sugar and one part water which is heated to allow the sugar to dissolve.
It creates a smooth and liquid sweetener which is perfect for cocktails. You can also use maple syrup.
Kahlúa is best for that authentic flavor but Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur or Tia Maria work as well.
If you want that famous foam, you need to shake vigorously for 30 seconds before straining. The foam is formed from the drink being cold and shaking it.
I personally like using a coupe glass, but a v-shaped martini glass works as well.
Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
- Make sure the espresso is cooled completely or it will melt the ice.
- You can cool the espresso more quickly by placing in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Shake the cocktail for at least 30 seconds so you get that foam.
- Pour quickly into the glass to ensure there is foam.
- Chill the glass so it remains cold for longer.
Other Cocktails
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Baileys Espresso Martini
Ingredients
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz Kahlúa
- 1 oz espresso
- ½ oz simple syrup
- coffee beans
Instructions
- Brew the espresso and let it cool completely.
- Mix Baileys, vodka, Kahlúa, espresso, simple syrup and some ice cubes in martini shaker.
- Shake very hard for 30 seconds and strain into a chilled martini glass quickly so you get foam. Top with some coffee beans.
Notes
- Make sure the espresso is cooled completely or it will melt the ice.
- You can cool the espresso more quickly by placing in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Shake the cocktail for at least 30 seconds so you get that foam.
- Pour quickly into the glass to ensure there is foam.
- Chill the glass so it remains cold for longer.
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