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Tequila Espresso Martini

A modern twist on the classic espresso martini that swaps vodka for smooth tequila, creating a richer, more complex flavor perfect for after-dinner sipping or late-night entertaining.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Cocktail, Digestif
Cuisine: Modern Fusion
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1.5 ounces premium silver tequila
  • 1 ounce Kahlua or coffee liqueur
  • 1 ounce fresh espresso cooled slightly
  • 0.5 ounce fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 ounce simple syrup
  • Ice for shaking
  • Coffee beans for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker or mason jar with tight-fitting lid
  • Jigger or shot glass for measuring
  • Martini glass or coupe glass
  • Bar spoon or regular spoon for stirring
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional but helpful)
  • Espresso machine or strong brewed coffee

Method
 

  1. Pull a single shot of espresso into a small cup or directly into your shaker. If you don't have an espresso machine, brew strong coffee (about 1 ounce of very concentrated brew) and let it cool for 30 seconds.
  2. Fill your martini or coupe glass with ice and let it sit while you prepare the other ingredients to chill the glass.
  3. Pour 1.5 ounces of premium silver tequila into your cocktail shaker.
  4. Add 1 ounce of Kahlua or coffee liqueur to the shaker.
  5. Pour the cooled espresso into the shaker with the tequila and coffee liqueur.
  6. Add 0.5 ounce of fresh lemon juice and 0.5 ounce of simple syrup into the shaker.
  7. Fill your shaker about three-quarters full with ice, secure the lid tightly, and shake hard and fast for 10 to 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty.
  8. Empty the ice from your chilled glass and carefully strain the cocktail into it, preserving as much crema as possible.
  9. Drop three or four coffee beans on top of the foam as garnish if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh espresso and shake vigorously for best crema and chill. Use premium silver tequila for smooth taste. Chill glass before serving. Variations include adding cayenne pepper, using coconut cream, or swapping tequila for mezcal.