The ultimate
"wake me up and then f**k me up" cocktail!
Introduction
Picture this: It's a lively evening, and you're looking for a drink that combines the boldness of coffee with the sophistication of a classic cocktail. Look no further than the Espresso Martini! This elegant concoction is the perfect blend of caffeine and spirits, delivering a rich and indulgent flavor that's sure to delight your senses. In this blog, we'll explore the history of the Espresso Martini and provide you with a delectable recipe to craft this exquisite drink at home.
The Origins of the Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini is a relatively modern creation, believed to have been invented in the late 20th century. Its origins are often attributed to the famous bartender Dick Bradsell, who concocted this delightful cocktail in the 1980s at the Soho Brasserie in London. The story goes that a supermodel requested a drink that would "wake me up and then f**k me up," and the Espresso Martini was born. This cocktail's popularity quickly spread, making it a staple in bars around the world.
What Makes the Espresso Martini So Special?
The Espresso Martini's charm lies in its perfect marriage of two beloved beverages: coffee and cocktails. Here's what makes it stand out:
The Caffeine Kick: If you're a coffee lover, you'll appreciate the Espresso Martini's bold coffee flavor. The infusion of freshly brewed espresso provides a delightful caffeine boost, making it an ideal choice for those late-night gatherings when you need a pick-me-up.
Touch of Elegance: The presentation of an Espresso Martini is nothing short of elegant. Served in a chilled martini glass, it's garnished with coffee beans or a twist of orange peel, giving it a sophisticated appearance that's sure to impress.
Balanced Ingredients: The Espresso Martini combines the bitterness of coffee with the sweetness of coffee liqueur and the smoothness of vodka. This balance of flavors results in a harmonious and well-rounded cocktail.
Now that we've explored the Espresso Martini's history and why it's so special, let's dive into crafting this delightful drink. I add apple vodka because it gives it that green apple taste. Kinda my own little green apple and Kahlúa mix.
Espresso Apple Martini Recipe
Ingredients:
1 1/2 oz (45 ml) vodka *I use Three Olives*
1/2 oz (15ml) apple vodka *I use apple Ciroc* I love the apple taste!
1 oz (30 ml) coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
1 oz (30 ml) freshly brewed espresso
1/2 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (adjust to taste) *equal parts of 1 cup each of sugar and water, bring both to a boil stirring occasionally, and let your simple syrup cool off*
Ice cubes
Coffee beans or an orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
Chill Your Glass: Begin by placing a martini glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes to chill it. This will give your Espresso Martini that extra touch of sophistication.
Brew the Espresso: While the glass is chilling, prepare a shot of espresso. You can use an espresso machine or a Moka pot for this step. Allow the espresso to cool slightly.
Shake It Up: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, freshly brewed espresso, and simple syrup to the shaker.
Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid of the shaker and shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This will chill and aerate the ingredients, creating a creamy texture.
Strain and Serve: Remove the martini glass from the freezer and strain the cocktail mixture into it. To garnish, float three coffee beans on top of the drink or add a twist of orange peel.
Enjoy!: Sip your Espresso Martini slowly and savor the rich blend of coffee and spirits.
Conclusion
The Espresso Martini is a delightful fusion of coffee and cocktails that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the world. Its history and unique combination of flavors make it a timeless choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Whether you're hosting a soirée or simply want to indulge in a decadent treat, this recipe will allow you to craft the perfect Espresso Martini in the comfort of your own home. So, raise your glass and savor every sip of this exquisite drink – it's a true masterpiece in a martini glass. Cheers!