Bourbon Espresso Martini

In honor of National Coffee Day I'm sharing my Espresso Martini recipe! This drink has never been my go-to order in the past, but after getting some pointers recently from Michter's Head Bartender, Dallas White, at the annual Bourbon Women Siposium, I decided to try my hand at it. Ever since I've fine-tuned this recipe, I find myself unexpectedly craving it. 

I chose Elijah Craig Small Batch in this recipe, but you could use any bourbon around 100 proof, or vodka if you prefer. I like the Elijah Craig because Heaven Hill's higher malted barley content lends slightly chocolatey, earthy, and nutty notes to the bourbon which I think works really well with the coffee and bitters in this cocktail. 

Much like your favorite fancy drink from any cafe, I think like the homemade brown sugar vanilla simple syrup really brings this drink together. It's easy to make and takes only a few minutes, but you can always substitute for regular simple syrup if you don't have the ingredients to whip this up. 

Enjoy! 

Espresso Martini 
Makes 1 drink

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz. bourbon (or vodka, if you prefer)
• 1/2 oz. coffee liqueur (I use Mr. Black) 
• 1/2 oz. brown sugar vanilla syrup (recipe below)
• 1.5 oz. espresso or cold brew concentrate
• 2 dashes chocolate bitters
• 2 dashes black walnut bitters
• Optional: cocoa powder, shaved chocolate, or espresso beans for garnish

Instructions

1 Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker

2 Add ice and shake until well chilled

3 Strain into a martini or coupe glass. Optional: chill the glass ahead of time

4 Finish with the garnish of your choice  
 

Brown Sugar Vanilla Simple Syrup 

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract (not immitation) 
  
  

Instructions

1 Add the brown sugar and water to a small pot and place on the stovetop over medium heat

2 Remove from heat once the sugar is fully dissolved, before reaching boiling

3 Add the vanilla and stir

4 Allow to cool completely. Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week

Did you make this recipe? Let us know! 

Tag @whiskeyambitions and @itsbourbonnight on Instagram, or comment below and let us know how you liked it! 


Sara Ahlgrim 
Co-founder of It's Bourbon Night & Whiskey Ambitions