What To Know
- In a large pitcher or bowl, whisk together the cold brew coffee, vodka, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup.
- Top each martini with a coffee bean for a classic and sophisticated touch.
- Store the chilled martini mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Indulge in the tantalizing blend of coffee and cocktails with our easy make-ahead espresso martini recipe. Perfect for busy evenings or entertaining guests, these martinis can be prepared in advance, leaving you ample time to savor the moment.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups cold brew coffee or espresso
- 1 1/2 cups vodka
- 1 cup coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa or Tia Maria)
- 1/2 cup simple syrup
- 6 coffee beans (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher or bowl, whisk together the cold brew coffee, vodka, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup.
2. Chill: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to blend and chill.
3. Shake and Strain: When ready to serve, fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 2-3 ounces of the chilled martini mixture and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds. Strain into chilled martini glasses.
4. Garnish (Optional): Top each martini with a coffee bean for an elegant touch.
Tips for Make-Ahead Success
- Use Fresh Coffee: The quality of the coffee will greatly impact the flavor of your martinis. Opt for freshly brewed cold brew or espresso for the best results.
- Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the mixture before shaking helps to dilute the alcohol and create a smoother, more balanced flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: The amount of simple syrup can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter martini, add more syrup gradually until desired sweetness is achieved.
- Make Ahead Time: These martinis can be made up to 2 days in advance. However, it’s best to shake and strain them just before serving to preserve their freshness.
Variations on the Classic
- Chocolate Espresso Martini: Add 1/4 cup chocolate liqueur to the mixture for a decadent twist.
- Caramel Espresso Martini: Replace the simple syrup with caramel syrup for a sweet and creamy variation.
- Hazelnut Espresso Martini: Infuse the vodka with roasted hazelnuts for a nutty flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Chilled Martini Glasses: Serve the martinis in chilled martini glasses to enhance their elegance.
- Espresso Beans as Garnish: Top each martini with a coffee bean for a classic and sophisticated touch.
- Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle chocolate shavings over the martinis for a rich and indulgent garnish.
How to Store Make-Ahead Espresso Martinis
- Refrigerate: Store the chilled martini mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Shake Before Serving: When ready to serve, shake the mixture vigorously before straining it into martini glasses.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I make these martinis without vodka?
A: Yes, you can omit the vodka for a non-alcoholic version. Simply replace it with an equal amount of cold brew coffee or espresso.
Q: How can I make a large batch of these martinis?
A: To make a larger batch, simply double or triple the recipe ingredients. Be sure to adjust the chilling time accordingly.
Q: Can I use other types of coffee liqueur?
A: Yes, you can use any type of coffee liqueur you prefer. Some popular options include Tia Maria, Frangelico, or Baileys Irish Cream.
