Frozen Espresso Martini

The frozen espresso martini is a delightful take on the classic cocktail meant to wake you up and chill you out. The traditional espresso martini served up (no ice) or on the rocks (with ice cubes) was created in the 1980s by Dick Bradsell in London. Here, we’ve given the always-popular cocktail a frozen twist while staying true to the legendary sweet coffee flavors of the original.

Vodka, Kahlua, espresso, simple syrup and ice make this slushy drink perfect for any time of day. Garnish with coffee beans or experiment with variations like adding Bailey’s or using coffee ice cubes for a stronger kick. Be ready to blend up a bunch: Like many frozen drinks, once a crowd sees one made, everyone will want a frozen espresso martini.

Frozen Espresso Martini Ingredients

• Vodka: A fabulous neutral spirit like vodka increases the kick of this cocktail but keeps the focus on the coffee flavors.
• Kahlua: This coffee liqueur is an enticing combination of rum and deep black coffee with a sweet creaminess. Look hard, and you might find some of Kahlua’s flavored versions, like vanilla and mint, especially around the holidays. Or, make homemade Kahlua. (We love all kinds of Kahlua drinks, too!) If you want something with more of that coffee kick, try Mr. Black’s coffee liqueur.
• Espresso or cold brew coffee: While I dream about a beautiful Italian espresso machine in my kitchen, I make do with my little Nespresso coffee pod machine. It’s ideal for this recipe. Making cold-brew coffee is another outstanding option, and it’s easier than you might think! Whatever your coffee choice, make sure it’s super concentrated and flavorful, and cool it before adding it to your blender.
• Simple syrup: Equal parts water and sugar, simple syrup is a cocktail staple and a snap to make.
• Ice cubes: It’s best to start with crushed or pellet ice, but plain old cubes frappe up just fine. Check to see if your blender has an ice crush setting.
• Coffee beans: No cocktail is complete without a glorious garnish. Two or three coffee beans on top give off an arresting aroma as you bring your martini glass to your lips. Feeling flavorful? Try a chocolate-covered espresso bean or two.

Directions

Step 1: Pour and pulse

Pour the vodka, Kahlua, coffee and simple syrup into the blender. Add the ice last. Process everything until slushy.

Editor’s Tip: Increase the ice if your cocktail seems too melty or liquid.

Step 2: Serve and sip

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Pour into a martini glass. If desired, garnish with coffee beans. Serve immediately.

Recipe Variations

• Freeze your espresso: Fill an ice cube tray with espresso, concentrated coffee or cold brew and freeze it overnight. Your coffee cubes will replace the coffee and ice in this recipe, making this one potent potion.
• Add a little Bailey’s: Do you like cream in your coffee? Maybe cream with a little kick? Bailey’s Irish cream is the path to a sweet and luxurious sip. With this adaptation, skip the simple syrup.
• Whip up some whipped cream: Canned or homemade, whipped cream is a terrific topper for this cocktail. Make it even more decadent with a bit of boisterous bourbon whipped cream.
• Make it a mudslide: Combining some of these variations can be fun, too! Pour vodka, Kahlua, Bailey’s and—wait for it—a couple of scoops of ice cream into the blender for a ridiculously decadent drink.

Can you make frozen espresso martinis ahead of time?

Yes! Get out your pitcher, batch the coffee, vodka, simple syrup, and Kahlua using the same ratio as the recipe above, and throw them in the fridge. Then, all you have to do is fill up your blender with ice, and you’re ready to pulse your way to a quickie cocktail anytime.

Frozen Espresso Martini Tips

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In what type of glass should you serve a frozen espresso martini?

The classic triangle martini glass is back! Try them stemless for a more casual look, or pull out those vintage glassware coupes for fancy occasions.

What can you serve with frozen espresso martinis?

From doughnuts in the morning to these magical mini-desserts after dinner, frozen espresso martinis are for any time of day. Sweets are a superb pair with this dandy drink but don’t forget those savory brunch dishes like egg casseroles and this mushroom asparagus quiche.