The Cherry Vanilla Espresso Martini is a bold, slightly sweet twist on the classic. It mixes rich espresso with cherry vodka, vanilla vodka, coffee liqueur, and sometimes a splash of simple syrup for balance. The result is smooth, with a deep coffee flavor layered with warm vanilla and a hint of cherry in the background. It’s a great choice for after dinner or a night out when you want something with a kick but still smooth around the edges. Strong, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of different, this one keeps things interesting without overcomplicating it.

This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy

Quick Content Links

Tasting Notes

The Cherry Vanilla Espresso Martini is a luxurious and indulgent cocktail that combines rich coffee flavors with sweet, fruity, and creamy undertones. The cherry vodka adds a subtle tartness, while vanilla vodka brings warmth and smoothness. Coffee liqueur and Bailey’s Irish Cream create a velvety, dessert-like texture, perfectly complemented by the deep, bold flavor of freshly brewed espresso.

The cherry vanilla syrup ties everything together with a luscious sweetness, making this martini a sophisticated balance of bitter, sweet, and aromatic notes. Garnished with espresso beans and Luxardo cherries, this cocktail is as elegant as it is flavorful.

Equipment and Glassware

To craft this creamy espresso martini, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to blend and aerate the ingredients, creating that signature frothy top. A jigger ensures precise measurements, while a fine mesh strainer helps achieve a smooth, velvety texture. Serve this cocktail in a chilled coupe or martini glass to enhance its elegance. A cocktail pick or tongs will assist in placing the espresso beans and Luxardo cherries for a polished, bar-quality presentation.

Ingredients

0.5 oz cherry vodka
0.5 oz vanilla vodka
1 oz coffee liqueur
1 oz Bailey’s Irish Cream
1 oz espresso freshly brewed and cooled
0.75 oz cherry vanilla syrup
3 espresso beans for garnish
2 Luxardo cherries for garnish

Instructions

Garnish: Place three espresso beans on top for a classic espresso martini look, and add two Luxardo cherries for a rich, fruity finish.
Mix the Cocktail: In a shaker, combine cherry vodka, vanilla vodka, coffee liqueur, Bailey’s, espresso, and cherry vanilla syrup.
Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled and frothy.
Strain and Serve: Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. For a smoother texture, use a fine mesh strainer.

Pro Tips

For the best frothy top, use freshly brewed espresso and allow it to cool slightly before shaking.
If you prefer a stronger coffee kick, increase the espresso slightly or opt for a high-quality, robust coffee blend.
To enhance the cherry-vanilla notes, consider infusing your own vanilla vodka or using a homemade cherry vanilla syrup.
If you like a slightly sweeter martini, add a touch more syrup.
For an extra layer of depth, try using a flavored coffee liqueur, such as a cherry or vanilla-infused version, to further enhance the cocktail’s complexity.

When to Serve

The Cherry Vanilla Espresso Martini is a perfect after-dinner drink, ideal for special occasions, dessert pairings, or as a luxurious nightcap. It’s a great choice for holiday gatherings, date nights, or any time you want to impress guests with a sophisticated and visually stunning cocktail. Whether served at an upscale soirée or enjoyed as a personal treat, this martini delivers indulgence and elegance in every sip.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For the best results, opt for a high-quality cherry vodka such as Three Olives Cherry or Grey Goose Cherry Noir. A smooth vanilla vodka like Absolut Vanilla or Stoli Vanil enhances the sweet, creamy notes. Choose a rich and flavorful coffee liqueur such as Kahlúa or Mr. Black for depth. Bailey’s Irish Cream is a classic choice for its velvety texture, while freshly brewed espresso should be bold and high-quality. When selecting Luxardo cherries, go for the authentic Italian variety for the richest flavor. These premium ingredients will ensure a well-balanced, delicious martini.

Similar Cocktails