The Banana & Black Sesame Espresso Rumtini is bold, creamy, and layered with flavor. It combines deep, nutty black sesame rum with rich coffee liqueur, smooth banana syrup, and fresh espresso. Chocolate bitters add a subtle edge, while the coffee bean and cocoa powder garnish bring everything home. This one’s definitely made for the after-dinner crowd think of it as your dessert and nightcap in one. It’s complex but not complicated, and every sip keeps you coming back for another. Inspired by ed_tales .
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Tasting Notes
You’ll taste roasted coffee first, followed by a mellow banana sweetness. The black sesame brings an earthy, almost nutty character that gives the drink a unique depth. Coffee liqueur adds richness, and the chocolate bitters round it all out with just a touch of warmth and spice. The double shot of espresso makes the texture full and smooth. It’s strong, balanced, and not overly sweet. The finish is long and slightly dry, with the banana and sesame lingering alongside the coffee. Each sip is rich and satisfying without being too thick or creamy.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, and fine mesh strainer for the best texture. A handheld milk frother is optional but great if you want to add foam. A double espresso machine or Nespresso-style pod machine works best, but strong brewed coffee can substitute in a pinch. Serve in a coupe or martini glass to keep the look clean and let the foam settle nicely on top. A microplane or sifter is helpful for adding the chocolate powder garnish at the end, and chilled glassware keeps the drink fresh and smooth from the first sip.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz black sesame rum
- 0.5 oz coffee liqueur
- 0.75 oz banana syrup
- 2 oz espresso
- 2 dashes chocolate bitters
- Coffee beans, for garnish
- Chocolate powder, for garnish
Instructions
- Brew your espresso and let it cool slightly.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine black sesame rum, coffee liqueur, banana syrup, espresso, and chocolate bitters.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake hard for about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a few coffee beans and a light dusting of chocolate powder.
Pro Tips
- Chill the espresso slightly so it doesn’t melt the ice too fast.
- Shake hard to build foam without needing egg white.
- Use a high-quality banana syrup natural over artificial.
- Add a pinch of salt to deepen flavor if needed.
- Try toasted sesame seeds as an optional garnish.
- Use crushed ice in the shaker for faster chilling.
- Let the rum shine avoid overdoing the syrup.
- Chocolate bitters work best in small amounts.
- Chill your glass in advance for best results.
- Adjust banana syrup based on sweetness of liqueur.
When to Serve
This drink is perfect after dinner or as a dessert cocktail. It fits in well at evening parties, special events, or whenever you want something bold and different. It’s a great alternative to classic espresso martinis, especially if you’re looking to surprise guests with something new. Because of its richness, it pairs well with dark chocolate, roasted nuts, or banana desserts. Whether you’re serving it to close out a meal or just want something cool and coffee-based, this drink hits the mark without being too heavy.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Black Sesame Rum:
- Matchbook Distilling “Spice Trade” (if available)
- Homemade infusion (rum + toasted black sesame steeped for 24–48 hrs)
Coffee Liqueur:
- Mr. Black (strong and balanced)
- Kahlúa (classic and slightly sweeter)
- St. George NOLA Coffee Liqueur (rich and full-bodied)
Banana Syrup:
- Giffard Banane du Brésil (banana liqueur style)
- Monin Banana Syrup (sweet and clean)
- Homemade (banana slices simmered with sugar and water)
Similar Cocktails
- Espresso Spritz
- Carrot Cake Espresso Martini
- Frozen Cherry Espresso Martini
- Cherry Vanilla Espresso Martini
- S’mores Espresso Martini
Equipment
- Hawthorne strainer
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz black sesame rum
- 0.5 oz coffee liqueur
- 0.75 oz banana syrup
- 2 oz espresso
- 2 dashes chocolate bitters
- Coffee beans for garnish
- Chocolate powder for garnish
Instructions
- Brew your espresso and let it cool slightly.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine black sesame rum, coffee liqueur, banana syrup, espresso, and chocolate bitters.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake hard for about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a few coffee beans and a light dusting of chocolate powder.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Shake hard to get that smooth, frothy top from the espresso.
- You can toast the coffee beans slightly for a stronger aroma.
- For a sweeter drink, add a touch more banana syrup—or go the other way and dial it back for a drier version.