The Espresso Spritz is a bold, bubbly cocktail that blends the rich kick of coffee with a light, fizzy finish. Made with chilled espresso, a splash of prosecco, and often a touch of coffee liqueur or orange liqueur, it’s a fresh take on a spritz with a little more depth. The espresso brings a smooth bitterness, balanced by the sparkle and dryness of the prosecco. It’s not too sweet, not too heavy, just a clean, energizing drink that works well for brunch, happy hour, or as a daytime pick-me-up. The Espresso Spritz is easy to sip and hard to forget.
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Tasting Notes
The Espresso Spritz is bold, bubbly, and a little sweet with a smooth coffee finish. Coffee liqueur brings depth and richness, while the chilled espresso gives it that strong, roasty punch. Prosecco adds crisp bubbles that keep the drink light, and tonic water gives a dry edge that balances the sweetness. The vanilla syrup softens it with a warm touch of sweetness. It’s fizzy and flavorful kind of like a sparkling cold brew with a twist.
Equipment and Glassware
You don’t need much just a jigger and a bar spoon. Build the drink right in a wine glass to show off the layers and bubbles. Add ice first, then pour and stir gently. A long-handled spoon is helpful for mixing without losing the fizz. Optional: a cocktail pick if you want to add a garnish like a coffee bean or orange twist.
Ingredients
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz tonic water
- 0.5 oz vanilla syrup
- 1 shot chilled espresso (about 1 oz)
- 3 oz prosecco
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Add the coffee liqueur, prosecco, tonic water, and vanilla syrup.
- Pour in the chilled espresso.
- Stir gently to mix everything without losing too much fizz.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly brewed and chilled espresso for the cleanest coffee flavor.
- Make sure your Prosecco and tonic water are cold before pouring to keep the drink crisp.
- Don’t over-stir—just enough to mix. For a bolder drink, use a full espresso shot; for something lighter, stick with half.
- Vanilla syrup can be adjusted depending on how sweet you like it.
When to Serve
This is a great drink for brunch, early evening happy hour, or as a chilled alternative to an after-dinner espresso. It’s also perfect for coffee lovers looking for a bubbly twist that still hits with flavor. Serve it when you want something different but easy to sip.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- For coffee liqueur, go with Kahlúa, Mr. Black, or St. George NOLA.
- Use a dry prosecco (Brut) to balance the sweetness. Any basic tonic water will work—Fever-Tree and Q Mixers are great options.
- Use real vanilla syrup or make your own with sugar, water, and a bit of vanilla extract.
- Go with freshly brewed espresso if possible for the best taste.
Similar Cocktails
- Carrot Cake Espresso Martini
- Frozen Cherry Espresso Martini
- S’mores Espresso Martini
- Cherry Vanilla Espresso Martini
- Pumpkin Spiced Espresso Martini
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 oz coffee liqueur
- 1 oz tonic water
- 0.5 oz vanilla syrup
- 1 shot chilled espresso about 1 oz
- 3 oz prosecco
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Add the coffee liqueur, prosecco, tonic water, and vanilla syrup.
- Pour in the chilled espresso.
- Stir gently to mix everything without losing too much fizz.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Chill your espresso ahead of time to avoid melting the ice too fast.
- If you prefer less sweetness, skip the vanilla syrup or use just a splash.
- A light roast espresso works best—it’s smoother and less bitter.