Jenna Haley
The Maple Bourbon Espresso Martini is a rich, smooth cocktail that blends bold coffee flavor with the warmth of bourbon and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup. This drink combines espresso or cold brew with coffee liqueur, a pinch of sea salt, and a dash of cinnamon for a hint of spice. When shaken with ice, it creates a creamy foam that makes every sip feel luxurious. Topped with three espresso beans for a classic finish, it’s perfect for after-dinner sipping or a cozy night in. This cocktail is simple to make and full of comforting, well-balanced flavor.
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Tasting Notes
The Maple Bourbon Espresso Martini is a bold, velvety cocktail that perfectly marries warmth and richness with a hint of sweetness. The bourbon brings depth and caramel undertones, while Lebowski’s Kool-Luah Coffee Liqueur adds a smooth coffee flavor with just the right touch of sweetness. Fresh espresso intensifies the aroma and body, creating a creamy, foamy texture when shaken. Maple syrup introduces a subtle, earthy sweetness, while the sea salt and cinnamon enhance the complexity with a delicate balance of spice and warmth. Each sip delivers a luxurious mix of coffee, oak, and sweetness comforting yet sophisticated.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare this Maple Bourbon Espresso Martini, gather a cocktail shaker for proper aeration and foam creation. A jigger ensures precise measurements for balance, while a fine strainer or double strainer helps achieve a silky-smooth finish. You’ll need a coffee maker or espresso machine for the fresh brew, and a bar spoon for gentle stirring if needed. Serve in a chilled coupe glass to highlight the cocktail’s dark hue and foamy crown. Keep a few espresso beans handy for garnish, and a small sieve for dusting cinnamon if you want extra presentation flair.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1.5 oz fresh espresso (or cold brew)
- 1 oz Lebowski’s Kool-Luah Coffee Liqueur
- .75 oz maple syrup
- pinch of sea salt
- dash of cinnamon powder
Instructions
- Brew your fresh espresso, cold brew, or extra strong brewed coffee and let cool for a couple minutes
- Pour your espresso, bourbon, Kool-Luah coffee liqueur, maple syrup, cinnamon and sea salt to a shaker tin.
- Add ice and vigorously shake for 30-40 seconds to achieve a thick layer of foam on top
- Strain your cocktail into a coupe glass. For an even better foam, double strain the cocktail.
- Garnish with three espresso beans, serve immediately, and enjoy your Maple Bourbon Espresso Martini using Lebowski’s Kool Luah coffee liqueur!
Pro Tips
- Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor and crema in your foam.
- Shake hard and long to build a stable foam layer.
- Chill all ingredients before mixing for a smoother, creamier consistency.
- Adjust sweetness by adding or reducing maple syrup slightly to taste.
- Use smoked sea salt for a subtle, aromatic twist.
- Dust a light sprinkle of cinnamon on top for extra aroma and visual appeal.
- Double strain to remove any small ice shards for a cleaner finish.
When to Serve
The Maple Bourbon Espresso Martini is a smooth and flavorful cocktail that’s perfect for relaxing after dinner or sharing with friends during fall and winter. It blends the bold taste of espresso with the warmth of bourbon and the sweetness of maple syrup, creating a drink that’s both rich and energizing. The flavors pair beautifully with chocolate desserts, pastries, or nutty treats, making it a great choice for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Each sip feels indulgent yet balanced, offering just the right mix of comfort and kick. It’s a delicious twist on the classic espresso martini.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon: Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, or Maker’s Mark for smooth caramel and oak notes.
- Coffee Liqueur: Lebowski’s Kool-Luah Coffee Liqueur for its rich, authentic coffee flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Pure Grade A Dark Amber for depth and natural sweetness.
- Espresso: Use high-quality beans like Lavazza or Illy for a strong, aromatic base.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1.5 oz fresh espresso or cold brew
- 1 oz Lebowski’s Kool-Luah Coffee Liqueur
- .75 oz maple syrup
- pinch of sea salt
- dash of cinnamon powder
Instructions
- Brew your fresh espresso, cold brew, or extra strong brewed coffee and let cool for a couple minutes
- Pour your espresso, bourbon, Kool-Luah coffee liqueur, maple syrup, cinnamon and sea salt to a shaker tin.
- Add ice and vigorously shake for 30-40 seconds to achieve a thick layer of foam on top
- Strain your cocktail into a coupe glass. For an even better foam, double strain the cocktail.
- Garnish with three espresso beans, serve immediately, and enjoy your Maple Bourbon Espresso Martini using the best Lebowski’s Kool Luah coffee liqueur!
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality, freshly brewed espresso for the richest flavor.
- Adjust the maple syrup to your preferred sweetness less for boldness, more for balance.
- A light brown sugar rim can add texture and an extra touch of sweetness.
