Vanilla Espresso Martini

A Vanilla Espresso Martini is a twist on the classic Espresso Martini – same recipe, same espresso and Kahlúa, but with Absolut Vanilia stepping in for original vodka. The vanilla-flavored vodka introduces a subtle, creamy depth that the classic version doesn’t have, finished with a vanilla pod garnish that reinforces those notes all the way to the last sip.

“Vanilla, coffee. What more is there to say? This drink is insanely good,” says Rico.

Hard to argue with that. The rich, bold coffee character of a classic Espresso Martini with just a touch of warm vanilla that makes everything a little more indulgent. Smooth, decadent and exactly what it promises.

There isn’t any documented history about the Vanilla Espresso Martini per se, but we can trace its roots back to the legendary Espresso Martini. Crafted in the 1980s by iconic bartender Dick Bradsell in London, this classic set the stage. With Absolut Vanilla hitting the market in 2003, it’s a safe bet that the Vanilla Espresso Martini emerged in the early 2000s.

• Double strain
  Pour the cocktail through a Hawthorne strainer and a fine mesh strainer for a smooth, clean pour — no ice shards, nothing that shouldn’t be there. Here’s how to double strain and why it matters.
• Choose your espresso carefully
  The quality of the espresso matters more here than in almost any other cocktail – it’s one of only three core ingredients.

  As Michael Bergström, Drinks Expert at Bartenders’ Choice Awards, explains: “Using any type of espresso machine, be it a manual espresso maker or a stovetop moka pot, you can produce great quality espresso to your liking. The right grind and extraction are key for a rich, flavorful cocktail. Pods also work exceptionally well.”

• Shake hard for the foam
  The signature frothy head of an Espresso Martini comes from a vigorous shake. The harder you shake, the better the foam and with a Vanilla Espresso Martini, that creamy head is part of the experience.
• Chill your glass
  Place your martini glass in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before serving. A cold glass keeps the drink colder for longer and preserves that signature frothy head.

Being that this cocktail is, of course, a variation of a classic Espresso Martini, here are a couple of other variations of a Espresso Martini.

• Virgin Espresso

  Can you make an Espresso Martini without alcohol? Yes, and it works beautifully. The Virgin Espresso is a bold blend of cold Espresso Coffee, Vanilla Syrup, and Water. Trust us, it’s the ultimate non-alcoholic indulgence. Discover how to make a Virgin Espresso.

• Espresso Martini with Absolut Peppar
  Where Absolut Vanilla adds a wonderfully smoothness and Vanilla flavor to an Espresso Martini, Absolut Peppar adds a spicy pepperiness that takes the drink experience to a new level!

• Glassware
  It’s a martini – serve it in a chilled martini glass. Alternatively, cocktail glass works just as well. Here’s a guide to cocktail glassware.
• Vanilla pod
  Rico’s garnish of choice – a whole vanilla pod placed in the glass to accentuate the vanilla character of Absolut Vanilia. Simple, elegant and specific to this drink.
• Three coffee beans The classic Espresso Martini garnish – three coffee beans gently placed on the frothy head, which are said to symbolize health, wealth and happiness.
• Garnish with both A vanilla pod and three coffee beans – why choose? It’s your drink.

Yes, you can. However, we prefer using vanilla-flavored vodka instead of adding vanilla syrup since the coffee liqueur provides enough sweetness to the drink.

That’s up to you! Every person’s preferences are unique. Some people prefer the vanilla tones in their Espresso Martini, while others prefer more coffee flavor and for the vodka to play a more neutral role. Mix it up and see which you like best!

Vanilla vodka, fresh espresso, and coffee liqueur. Check out the recipe on this page!