If you’re a fan of coffee cocktails, you have to try this Hazelnut Espresso Martini with Frangelico and Coffee Vodka! It’s a rich and delicious drink that makes one of the best after dinner cocktails.
And if you’re looking for more cocktail inspiration, be sure to check out my other recipes! From martinis like this Orange Creamsicle Martini or Aperol Vodka Martini to coffee drinks like this Snickers Irish Latte or this recipe for a Kahlua Espresso Martini, there’s something for everyone. If you really want to go off the beaten path, try this salty and sweet Parmesan Espresso Martini.
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Why This Recipe Works
- Elevated: It’s a sophisticated twist on a classic cocktail that’s sure to impress your guests.
- Flavor combination: The combination of hazelnut and espresso flavors is absolutely delicious.
- Coffee lovers dream: It’s the perfect drink for coffee lovers who want to enjoy a cocktail.
Espresso Martini History and Origin
The espresso martini is a relatively modern cocktail that is believed to have been created in the 1980s by a London bartender named Dick Bradsell. According to legend, a model walked into his bar and asked for a drink that would “wake me up, and then f*** me up”. Then, the espresso martini was born.
The cocktail quickly became popular and spread around the world. Today, the espresso martini is a beloved classic coffee cocktail that is enjoyed by coffee and cocktail lovers alike. As with most cocktail origin stories, the details of the espresso martini origin can vary by source. While the origin story may be apocryphal, there’s no denying the deliciousness of this drink!
What is Frangelico?
Frangelico is a sweet hazelnut liqueur that has been enjoyed for centuries in Italy and around the world. The history of Frangelico dates back to the 17th century, when Italian monks began producing the liquor from wild hazelnuts and herbs.
Frangelico is named after a hermit monk that lived in the Piedmont region. Today, Frangelico is enjoyed as a standalone drink, as well as a popular ingredient in cocktails such as the Hazelnut Espresso Martini.
Ingredient Notes
- Coffee vodka: Adds a rich and deeper coffee flavor to the drink.
- Espresso: Provides the base for the cocktail and gives it a strong coffee flavor.
- Frangelico hazelnut liqueur: Frangelico adds a delicious nutty flavor to the cocktail.
- Whole espresso coffee beans for garnish: These are optional, but not only do they add a nice touch of elegance to the drink, but they also enhance the coffee flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add the coffee vodka to an empty cocktail shaker.
Step 2: Add the Frangelico hazelnut liqueur.
Step 3: Add the espresso.
Step 4: Add ice and shake until well chilled. Strain into a martini glass or other cocktail glass.
Step 5: Garnish with a few whole espresso beans, if desired.
Expert Tips
- Add a pasteurized egg white to make the cocktail extra frothy.
- Try other garnishes such as chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
- Chill your martini glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring the drink for an extra chilly martini.
- For a sweeter cocktail, add a touch of simple syrup to the cocktail shaker before shaking.
Substitutions and Variations
- Frangelico: Amaretto is another sweet and nutty (almond) flavored liqueur and would work well as a substitute. You can sub amaretto 1-for-1 with Frangelico.
- Coffee vodka: You can use regular vodka, but keep in mind the coffee flavor will be weaker. Vanilla vodka is a good option as well.
- Espresso: Strong, concentrated coffee, cold brew, French press, or instant espresso powder.
- For a Nutella variation: Add a chocolate liqueur, such as Godiva or Creme de Cacao, for a Nutella Frangelico Espresso Martini.
FAQ
What type of vodka should be used in a Frangelico Espresso Martini?
I prefer coffee or espresso vodka as it deepens the coffee flavor and aroma, but you can also use regular vodka. It just may have a weaker flavor profile. Vanilla vodka is another good option as well.
Can you make fresh espresso without an espresso machine?
Yes, you can make espresso without a machine by using an Aeropress, Moka Pot, or French Press. You can also use very strong, concentrated coffee, cold brew, or instant espresso powder if you don’t have access to those items.
What is the percent alcohol by volume (% ABV) this martini?
The alcohol content in an espresso martini is typically around 25-30% ABV. I calculated that this Hazelnut Espresso Martini is roughly 26% ABV.
Can I make a big batch and can I make the batch in advance?
This cocktail should be shaken and not stirred, so it doesn’t make for the easiest big batch cocktail to serve or make in advance. However, you can mix the ingredients in a large pitcher and pour each cocktail serving into a cocktail shaker with ice right before serving. You can even have your guests shake their own using a mason jar and a cocktail shaker mason jar lid, both of which can be bought relatively inexpensively.
Are espresso martinis typically served hot or cold?
Espresso martinis are typically served cold over ice or straight up in a chilled martini glass.
Related Recipes
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📖 Recipe
Hazelnut Espresso Martini Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ ounce coffee vodka
- 1 ounce espresso
- 1 ounce Frangelico hazelnut liqueur
- Whole espresso beans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Add coffee vodka, espresso, and Frangelico hazelnut liqueur to a cocktail shaker.
- Add ice and shake until well chilled.
- Strain into a martini glass and garnish with coffee beans on top, if desired.
Notes
- Add a pasteurized egg white to make the cocktail extra frothy.
- Try other garnishes such as chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
- Chill your martini glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring the drink for an extra chilly martini.
Nutrition
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Jon S
First time having an espresso martini, I really liked it