Espresso Martini Jelly Shot
Average
Coffee
3 Minutes (plus 4 hr prep time)
Shot Glass
Ingredients
The Espresso Martini Jelly Shot cocktail recipe transforms the bold, rich flavors of espresso and vodka into a smooth, jellified shot. Expect aromas of roasted coffee with hints of vanilla and cream.
These Espresso Martini Jelly Shots are the perfect shot to serve at birthday parties, on New Year’s Eve or as an after-dinner showstopper. They also work fantastically at summer parties, served like an iced coffee shot.
These jelly shots require 2-3 hours to set, so plan accordingly before your guests arrive to ensure your evening runs smoothly and your guests aren’t left hanging waiting for their delicious coffee jelly shot.
Note: The recipe is for a batch of jelly shots (approximately 20 jelly shots).
How To Make an espresso martini jelly shot
Bar tools you’ll need
Jigger
How to Mix an Espresso Martini Jelly Shot
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Brew fresh coffee, then place it in the refrigerator until cold, about 30 minutes.
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Remove the coffee from the refrigerator and pour it into a microwave-safe mixing bowl.
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Bloom gelatin in the cold coffee for 5-10 minutes at room temperature.
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Heat the mixture in the microwave for 30 seconds and stir with a large spoon until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
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Use a jigger to measure and pour Absolut Vodka into the bowl.
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Measure and pour Kahlúa into the bowl and stir well.
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Pour the mixture into molds, leaving a quarter of the mixture for the foam.
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In a separate bowl, whisk cream until foamy. Gently incorporate the remaining mixture without deflating the whipped cream. Whisk until you reach the desired consistency.
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Carefully pour your cocktail mixture into your jelly molds, leaving room for the cream.
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Gently pour the whipped cream on top, using the back of a spoon to layer.
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Refrigerate for 2-3 hours to allow the jelly shots to set.
What is an Espresso Martini Jelly Shot?
The Espresso Martini Jelly Shot is just what it sounds like – an Espresso Martini, jellified and served as a shot!
Perfect for any party, these jelly shots contain the same ingredients as a classic Espresso Martini but with the addition of cream and gelatin (or agar if you wish to use a plant-based alternative).
What does an Espresso Martini Jelly Shot taste like?
If you’ve ever enjoyed an Espresso Martini, you know what to expect. Dark, rich, and sweet espresso coffee with the smoothness of vodka. The addition of cream adds a wonderful creamy vanilla-like character to the shot.
The History of the Espresso Martini Jelly Shot
The Espresso Martini Jelly Shot emerged in the early 2020s as part of a broader trend of jelly shots.
However, coffee jelly itself has been enjoyed for much longer, especially in Japan, where it’s been popular since the 1960s. While it might seem like coffee jelly originated there, it’s believed to have been invented in England in the early 1800s.
The Espresso Martini dates back to the late 1980s and was invented in London by the legendary late bartender Dick Bradsell.
Tips for Making the Perfect Espresso Martini Jelly Shot
- Use your preferred coffee roast
Whether you’re using coffee pods, a stove top espresso maker, or a barista-style espresso machine, be sure to use your preferred type of espresso. If you like a dark roast, choose that. If you prefer something milder, go with that. - Time is your friend
The key to any Jelly Shot is getting that wobbly, jellified texture. Therefore, be sure to allow enough time for your jelly to set. 2-3 hours should suffice.
Variations of an Espresso Martini Jelly Shot
- Vanilla Espresso Martini Jelly Shot
If you love those vanilla hints in your coffee, substitute the unflavored vodka for vanilla-flavored vodka. Vanilla Espresso Martini Jelly Shots? Oh yes! - Add Condensed Milk
If you want your jelly shots even creamier, add some condensed milk to your cream layer. If you’re making a batch of 20 shots, add a quarter cup of condensed milk or approx. 5-7 ml if you’re making an individual shot.
Serving and Garnish Ideas for an Espresso Martini Jelly Shot
- We recommend serving your jelly shots in plastic or silicone molds or cups. Alternatively, you could serve your jelly shots in shot glasses.
- To garnish, add a single coffee bean on top as a nod to a classic Espresso Martini.
- If you’re using shot glasses to serve your jelly shots and you’re looking for a decadent touch, coat the rim of your shot glasses with cocoa powder.
Espresso Martini Jelly Shot FAQ
Absolut Vodka is perfect for making Jelly Shots.
Be sure to check out the Absolut Jolly Jelly for your next party!
Allow 3 hours to make your jelly shots, including 2-3 hours for them to set.
Yes, can replace gelatin with agar-agar, a plant-based gelling and setting agent derived from seaweed.
As a general guide, you typically need about one-third to half the amount of agar as you would gelatin to achieve a similar setting result.
