Indulge in the Sweet & Nutty Amaretto Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini, the base for this variation, was invented in the 1980s by renowned bartender Dick Bradsell. It was initially created for a model who requested a drink that would “wake me up and then f**k me up.” The Amaretto Espresso Martini builds upon this classic by adding the sweet and almond-like flavors of amaretto, a liqueur originating from Italy. 

The popularity of the Amaretto Espresso Martini has soared in recent years, as it combines the stimulating effects of coffee with the relaxing properties of alcohol. Its unique flavor profile and elegant presentation make it a popular choice for both casual gatherings and upscale events.

Amaretto Espresso Martini

The Amaretto Espresso Martini Recipe is a truly delicious and sophisticated cocktail. Its rich flavor profile is a testament to the perfect marriage of bold espresso and the sweet almond flavor of amaretto liqueur. As a bartender, I’ve seen firsthand how this drink has evolved from the classic espresso martini, which typically combines espresso, vodka, a sweetener like simple syrup, and coffee liqueur. 

This popular cocktail has long been favored as an after-dinner drink or pick-me-up, but the amaretto espresso martini takes it to new heights with the addition of sweet amaretto liqueur, creating a truly beautiful combination with coffee.

The star of this cocktail, amaretto, is a sweet, almond-flavored liqueur that originated in Italy. Interestingly, amaretto actually means “a little bitter” in Italian, referring to the slight bitterness that balances its sweetness. Despite its almond flavor, it’s often made from apricot pits rather than almonds, with additional flavorings like vanilla and caramel rounding out its complex taste.

READ: Lavender Martini

Ingredients for Amaretto Martini Recipe

To create this decadent cocktail at home, you’ll need the following ingredients. You’ll find precise measurements for a single serving on the recipe card at the end of this post.

1. Vodka: Opt for a good quality, unflavored vodka. Trust me, the neutrality of the vodka allows the other flavors to shine.
2. Amaretto liqueur: This sweet, slightly bitter liqueur is the perfect pairing with espresso. Its almond notes add depth to the cocktail.
3. Espresso coffee: You’ll want a shot of freshly brewed espresso, cooled to room temperature. The layer of foam it creates is what gives the espresso martini its signature look.
4. Simple syrup: This adds extra sweetness to balance the bitterness of the coffee. I’ve found that homemade simple syrup works best, but store-bought is fine too.

Equipment Essentials

To shake up your cocktail like a pro, you’ll need a few key tools:

• Cocktail Shaker (or a tall jar with a lid): This is where the magic happens – the shaking chills the drink and creates the signature frothy top.
• Strainer: A Hawthorne or julep strainer will help you pour a smooth, ice-free cocktail into your glass.
• Coupe Glass or Martini Glass: These elegant glasses are the perfect vessel for showcasing your creation. Don’t worry about how to hold a martini glass! Here’s our guide: How to hold a Martini Glass?

READ: Raspberry Chocolate Martini

Instructions

First things first, let’s chill that martini glass. I like to fill the glass with ice while I make the cocktail. This ensures that when your cocktail is ready, you can simply tip the ice out of the glass and pour in your martini. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing, cold martini, especially during those hot summer months.

Now, let’s get mixing. Grab your cocktail shaker and add your vodka, amaretto, simple syrup, and a shot of cooled espresso. 

Here’s a pro tip: start with a “dry shake”. Put the lid on and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds without ice. This dry shake helps emulsify the ingredients, creating that velvety texture we’re after. Then, add ice and shake again until the shaker is frosty cold.

Finally, pour your creation into your chilled martini glass. For the finishing touch, I like to serve it with 3 coffee beans as a garnish. Not only does this look elegant, but it also adds a subtle coffee aroma as you sip.

Ingredients Substitutions

Here are a few substitutions that can transform your amaretto espresso recipe:

1. Try adding a splash of half-and-half or heavy cream to your mix. This creates something similar to an Espresso White Russian, but with the almond notes of amaretto. I call it a Blushin’ Russian. The cream adds a luxurious depth and richness that’s perfect for a dessert cocktail.
2. Swap out the vodka for gin if you prefer a botanical twist. The juniper notes in gin pair surprisingly well with the coffee and almond flavors.
3. If you’re looking to amp up the coffee flavor, consider replacing the simple syrup with 1/2 oz of Kahlua coffee liqueur.

Variations & Personalizations

The Amaretto Espresso Martini can be customized to suit individual preferences. Some variations include:

• Chocolate Amaretto Espresso Martini: Add a touch of chocolate liqueur for a decadent twist.
• Salted Caramel Amaretto Espresso Martini: Rim the glass with caramel sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt for a salty-sweet delight.
• Vanilla Amaretto Espresso Martini: Add a few drops of vanilla extract for a subtle vanilla aroma.

Final Thoughts

With its alluring blend of coffee’s boldness and amaretto’s sweetness, the Amaretto Espresso Martini is a captivating cocktail that’s sure to please. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious novice, this delightful drink is a worthy addition to your repertoire. So why not shake things up and indulge in this sophisticated sip? You won’t be disappointed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What alcohol goes in an espresso martini? 

Traditionally, vodka is the primary alcohol in an espresso martini. However, in our Amaretto Espresso Martini, we also add amaretto liqueur for that delightful almond flavor.

What to mix with espresso martini? 

Espresso martinis are usually perfect on their own, but if you’re looking to experiment, try pairing it with a small dessert like chocolate truffles or biscotti.

What to add to espresso martini? 

To elevate your espresso martini, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top. I’ve even seen some creative bartenders rim the glass with espresso grounds for an extra kick.

Does amaretto go in espresso martini? 

In a classic espresso martini, no. But in our Amaretto Espresso Martini version, absolutely! It adds a wonderful sweet almond flavor that complements the coffee beautifully.

What liquor is best for an espresso martini?

A good quality, unflavored vodka is typically best. It provides a clean base that doesn’t overpower the coffee flavor. For our Amaretto version, we also use amaretto liqueur.

What is the alcohol in amaretto? 

Amaretto is an almond-flavored liqueur. Its alcohol content usually ranges from 21% to 28% ABV (Alcohol By Volume).

What’s in an espresso martini? 

A classic espresso martini contains vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sometimes simple syrup. Our Amaretto version adds amaretto liqueur for an extra layer of flavor.

What goes best with espresso martini? 

Espresso martinis pair wonderfully with chocolate desserts, tiramisu, or even a cheese plate featuring strong, aged cheeses.

What can I use instead of Kahlua in espresso martini? 

If you don’t have Kahlua, you can use any coffee liqueur. In a pinch, you could even use a combination of strong brewed coffee and simple syrup.

Can I make an espresso martini without an espresso machine? 

Absolutely! While freshly brewed espresso is ideal, you can use strong cold brew coffee or even instant espresso powder dissolved in hot water and cooled.

How do I get the frothy top on my espresso martini? 

The key to a good froth is vigorous shaking. Shake your cocktail shaker hard for at least 15 seconds to create that luxurious foam.

Is an Amaretto Espresso Martini sweet? 

It has a balanced sweetness. The amaretto and simple syrup add sweetness, while the espresso provides a bitter counterpoint. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking by altering the amount of simple syrup.

Amaretto Espresso Martini

Recipe by Raise Your GlassCourse: Drinks

Servings

1

cocktail

Prep time

5

minutes

Calories

210

kcal

Total time

5

minutes

Raise your glass to the Amaretto Espresso Martini, a sophisticated and invigorating fusion of Italian elegance and caffeinated bliss! Cheers to this decadent blend of smooth amaretto, robust espresso, and a touch of sweetness, a truly irresistible after-dinner indulgence.

Ingredients

• 2oz (60ml) vodka

• 1/2 oz (15ml) amaretto

• 1oz (30ml) espresso, freshly brewed and cooled

• 1/2oz (15ml) simple syrup

• Coffee beans for garnish

Directions

• First things first, let’s chill that martini glass. I like to fill the glass with ice while I make the cocktail. This ensures that when your cocktail is ready, you can simply tip the ice out of the glass and pour in your martini. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing, cold martini, especially during those hot summer months.
• Now, let’s get mixing. Grab your cocktail shaker and add your vodka, amaretto, simple syrup, and a shot of cooled espresso.
• Here’s a pro tip: start with a “dry shake”. Put the lid on and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds without ice. This dry shake helps emulsify the ingredients, creating that velvety texture we’re after. Then, add ice and shake again until the shaker is frosty cold.
• Finally, pour your creation into your chilled martini glass. For the finishing touch, I like to serve it with 3 coffee beans as a garnish. Not only does this look elegant, but it also adds a subtle coffee aroma as you sip.