in ,

Top 15 Espresso Cocktails to Try

Exploring espresso cocktails opens up a world where coffee’s deep flavors meet the spirited zing of choice alcohol, crafting drinks that dazzle and warm. These blends take the essence of rich espresso and mix it with spirits to offer something unique and inviting. They are perfect for coffee enthusiasts eager to experiment beyond their usual cup or cocktail lovers looking for a rich, caffeinated twist. Each recipe in our roundup showcases how versatile and captivating espresso can be when paired with the right alcohol. I strongly suggest checking out this roundup for your next drink inspiration.

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

Espresso Martini

espresso martini cocktail

A trendy bar staple, the espresso martini is the perfect after-dinner drink. You can create an indulgent cocktail that takes the place of dessert using rich espresso, coffee liqueur, and a shot of vodka. The trick is to shake this drink hard and fast. That’s what creates the impressive foamy topper on this beverage.


Affogato Martini

a glass of an affogato espresso martini

Fans of coffee ice cream will love this espresso cocktail. Crafted using vanilla ice cream, vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso or strong brewed coffee, this recipe requires more than your standard bar fare. But the results are worth the effort. Try it after your next Italian-themed dinner in place of dessert.


Chocolate Espresso Old-Fashioned

chocolate espresso old fashioned

This stiff take on a coffee cocktail isn’t for the faint of heart. It combines smooth bourbon, bold espresso, sweet maple syrup, and rich chocolate bitters. Finished with coffee beans or an orange peel, this twist on the classic is appealing to coffee and chocolate enthusiasts alike.


Mocha Espresso Martini

newly mixed mocha espresso martini in a glass

Chocolate and coffee lovers rejoice! This cocktail is designed with you in mind. This would be a great alternative to the standard mimosa with brunch, featuring coffee liquor and espresso over ice. As an icy cocktail, it’s also fantastic in the summer months. 


Insomniac Cocktail

Insomniac Cocktail

Sweet, creamy, and oh-so-caffeinated, this cocktail is perfect for those nights you don’t want to end. This mix blends smooth flavors with a kick that keeps the night interesting. Perfect for those who enjoy a late-night chat or winding down after a busy day because it’s both refreshing and comforting. The recipe combines just the right amount of spirit with a splash of something sweet, making it a favorite among my customers who crave a midnight treat.


The Dark Velvet

The Dark Velvet

The Dark Velvet cocktail takes a few extra steps, but the results are worth it. This cocktail is a smooth blend of rich flavors that’s perfect for unwinding after a long exhausting day. It combines the boldness of stout beer with the velvety texture of champagne and it offers a surprising twist that captivates drinkers from the first sip. The contrast between the deep, roasted notes and the crisp, bubbly finish makes it a standout choice.


Tequila Espresso Martini

tequila espresso martini

You might think tequila and espresso would only go together sometimes, but this cocktail recipe will prove you wrong. It combines the warmth of tequila with the rich and deep notes of espresso, balanced by a touch of sweetness. This drink has a unique blend, offering a spirited lift with every sip. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a boost or just want to drink something special.


Toasted Almond Espresso Martini

just finished crafting a toasted almond espresso martini

Lovers of coffee and almond, you’ll love this take on the espresso cocktail. its rich, nutty flavor that perfectly blends with the boldness of espresso. It’s the ideal pick-me-up, merging the warmth of coffee with the smooth sweetness of almond. The toasted almond adds a depth that coffee and cocktail lovers appreciate.


Maple Bourbon Espresso Martini

Maple Bourbon Espresso Martini

The Maple Bourbon Espresso Martini features the flavor of coffee with a spirited twist. This unique espresso cocktail blends the rich sweetness of maple syrup with the robust depth of bourbon, elevated by a shot of espresso for that perfect kick. It’s a smooth drink that suits any occasion, effortlessly balancing sweetness and strength.


Espresso White Russian

image of a White Russian cocktail. The drink is served in an old-fashioned glass filled with ice cubes. It shows distinct layers, with clear vodka at the bottom, a middle layer of dark coffee liqueur, and a top layer of smooth, creamy white heavy cream. The glass is on a wooden bar counter with a cozy, dimly lit bar ambiance in the background. The cocktail is garnished with a few coffee beans on the cream layer, adding an elegant touch.

The Espresso White Russian is the perfect pick for a sunny day. It strikes the perfect balance between being sweet and strong, and the results are epic. Best of all, this recipe offers a creamy texture with a coffee kick that appeals to many. It’s easy to make, requiring no fancy techniques, just a simple stir. It uses the traditional White Russian recipe with an added Espresso.


Coconut Espresso Martini

A glass of Coconut Espresso Martini

If you’re a fan of the smooth blend of rich espresso and creamy coconut flavors, you’ll love this modern take on the traditional espresso martini. The recipe uses vodka, espresso, and coconut rum to create a balanced drink. This version of martini is ideal for winding down after a long day or kicking off a lively evening. It’s worth making.


Hazelnut Espresso Martini

Hazelnut Espresso Martini recipe

Whipping up a Hazelnut Espresso Martini is made by blending rich coffee with the nutty whispers of hazelnut for a smooth finish. It’s a hit for its velvety texture and the way it balances the boldness of espresso with a hint of sweetness. Perfect after dinner or as a lively kickstart to your night out, this drink knows how to make an impression.


Caffè Corretto

Caffe Corretto

Caffè Corretto, the perfect fusion of bold espresso and a dash of grappa. This Italian classic combines the rich, deep flavors of coffee with the smooth, warming kick of grappa, offering a unique twist to your usual coffee routine. It’s a favorite because it blends the comforting taste of coffee with a spirited note, making it an ideal pick-me-up.


Salted Caramel Espresso Martini

Salted Caramel Espresso Martini

Combining the bold flavors of espresso with the sweet notes of salted caramel, this Espresso Martini recipe is a favorite. It’s perfect for those who love a kick of caffeine with a smooth, caramel finish. The drink blends premium salted caramel vodka, fresh espresso, and simple syrup, creating a harmonious balance between bitter and sweet. Ideal for evening gatherings or a simple treat after dinner, it’s an impressive cocktail.


Espresso Negroni

espresso negroni

The Espresso Negroni adds a caffeinated twist to the time-honored cocktail. It’s a favorite because it marries the boldness of espresso with the bitter-sweet symphony of gin, vermouth, and Campari. This drink strikes a perfect balance, offering a refreshing kick that’s both stimulating and satisfying. It’s not just a beverage; it’s a vibrant dance of flavors that wakes up the senses.


An Espresso Cocktail in a sleek cocktail glass, displayed on a stylish café bar. The cocktail has a rich, dark brown color, indicative of the strong espresso base, possibly mixed with a coffee liqueur, vodka, and a hint of cream or simple syrup. It's garnished with a few coffee beans or a light dusting of cocoa powder, adding to its sophisticated coffee-themed appearance. The glass is modern and complements the drink's bold and aromatic profile. The background features an elegant café setting with ambient lighting, comfortable seating, and an array of coffee-making equipment, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying an Espresso Cocktail.

15 Espresso Cocktail Recipes

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
4.8 from 4 votes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: espresso cocktails
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner
Discover the best of both worlds with espresso cocktails! Explore our roundup for unique drinks to delight your palate. Click for recipes!

Instructions

  • Pick your favorite recipe
  • Gather all the needed ingredients
  • Prep a espresso cocktail in less than 5 minutes
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment and let us know how it was!
Top 15 Espresso Cocktails to Try
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.
4.75 from 4 votes (4 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply

Avatar

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Google Guide and MuckRack.

An Orange Liqueur Cocktail in a sophisticated cocktail glass, set on a modern bar counter. The cocktail features a bright orange color, showcasing the primary ingredient of orange liqueur, possibly mixed with vodka or gin, and a splash of fresh citrus juice to enhance its vibrant flavor. It's garnished with a twist of orange peel or a small slice of orange, emphasizing the citrus theme. The glass is elegant and complements the cocktail's zesty character. The background includes a contemporary bar setting with sleek decor, ambient lighting, and a selection of high-end spirits, creating an atmosphere that's both stylish and inviting, ideal for enjoying an Orange Liqueur Cocktail.

17 Most Popular Orange Liqueur Cocktails

50/50 martini cocktail with green olives and a shaker, close up

50/50 Martini