Can You Make An Espresso Martini Without Espresso?

In late 1980s London, bartender Dick Bradsell received a drink request from a famous model, “Wake me up and f—— me up”. He threw together some coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, vodka, with a little sugar and called it “The Vodka Espresso” and later “Pharmaceutical Stimulant.” Today, we call it the Espresso Martini. This cocktail recently resurfaced as a very popular order. Expect to see a lot of them around the holidays.

What if you don’t have an espresso machine? Not to worry - grab that cold brew concentrate from the store! Keep in mind, you won’t get as much of the froth like you would with freshly brewed espresso. However, this recipe is a lot more convenient sans espresso machine. Check out the cocktail recipe below!

No-spresso Martini

In your cocktail shaker, add:

2 oz vodka

1/2 oz coffee liqueur

1 oz Cold Brew Concentrate

1/4 oz simple syrup

Shake well with ice and double strain to a cocktail glass. Garnish with 3 coffee beans.

Optional: For extra foam, add 1/2 tsp of aquafaba powder to the shaker with above ingredients.