If one espresso martini is good, three is even better! This Espresso Martini Flight features a smooth classic, a fun campfire-inspired s'mores version, and a bold spicy tequila twist. Shake up a batch and enjoy comparing each sip. It's an easy, impressive way to serve cocktails at your next gathering.
Made in collaboration with Final Touch using their Espresso Martini Flight Set – 4 Pieces – 4.75 oz (140 ml). All opinions in this post are our own.
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Why We Love This Recipe
- Three Flavours in One: Classic, sweet, and spicy, something for every palate.
- Perfect for Entertaining: A fun and interactive cocktail experience.
- Simple Ingredients: No complicated infusions or syrups required.
- Visually Stunning: Each martini has its own look and garnish.
- Scalable: The recipes can easily be doubled to serve in a larger 10-oz martini glass without losing flavour.
Ingredients
Note: These recipes are for three 4 ¾ oz martini flight coupe glasses. Quantities for a 10-oz glass are in the recipe card below.
For the Classic & S'mores Martinis
(Shake these together and top separately)
- Vodka
- Simple syrup
- Kahlúa (or a coffee liqueur)
- Tia Maria
- Freshly brewed espresso
For the Spicy Tequila
- Tequila
- Simple syrup
- Kahlúa (or a coffee liqueur)
- Freshly brewed espresso
Toppings & Garnishes
- Classic: 3 espresso beans
- S'mores: Chocolate shavings and 3 toasted mini marshmallows on a skewer
- Spicy: Lime zest, a dash of cayenne, and small Thai red chili or a few thin slices
See the recipe card below for exact quantities for both a 4.75-oz and 10-oz glass
Instructions
Brew the Espresso
Make fresh espresso and let it cool slightly so it doesn't melt the ice too quickly.
Chill the Glasses
Place three martini coupes in the freezer for 5-10 minutes to chill.
Make the Classic & S'mores Martinis:
Fill a cocktail shaker ¾ full with ice. Add vodka, simple syrup, Kahlúa, Tia Maria, and espresso. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until chilled and frothy.
Strain half the mixture into one coupe for the Classic Martini and the other half into another coupe for the S'mores Martini.
Garnish the Classic Espresso Martini with three coffee beans. Garnish the S’mores Martini with chocolate shavings plus a toasted marshmallow skewer.
Make the Spicy Tequila
Rinse the shaker, fill a cocktail shaker ¾ full with ice. Add tequila, simple syrup, Kahlúa, and espresso. Shake for 15-20 seconds and strain into the third coupe.
Garnish with lime zest, a dash of cayenne, and small Thai red chili or a few thin slices.
Serve Immediately
Present all three as a flight and enjoy the variety of flavours side by side. Please drink responsibly.
Tips & Substitutions
- Espresso: Use freshly brewed espresso for the best crema and rich flavour. Cold brew concentrate can work in a pinch.
- Simple Syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely, then let cool before using.
- Simple Syrup: Swap for maple syrup or agave to add a natural sweetness.
- No espresso machine? Use strong coffee; make it double strength.
- Make ahead: Brew the espresso a few hours early and chill it. Don't add ice until you shake.
- Non-alcoholic version: Replace the alcohol with cold brew and coffee liqueur syrup.
- Presentation idea: Serve the flight on a small wooden board or slate tray with garnish labels for each flavour.
Espresso Martini Flight Snack Pairings
Classic Espresso Martini:
- Pair with dark chocolate truffles: The bitterness of dark chocolate complements the coffee and liqueur, while the texture adds a touch of indulgence without overpowering the drink.
- Or roasted almonds, pistachios or hazelnuts: Adds crunch and a subtle savoury note that balances the coffee's bitterness.
S'mores Martini:
- Serve with mini graham cracker sandwich cookies filled with a touch of chocolate ganache or marshmallow cream. You could also crumble graham crackers over or bite-sized brownies for a nostalgic, campfire-inspired pairing.
Spicy Tequila Martini:
- Balance the heat with dark chocolate bark studded with candied ginger or spiced candied pecans. The sweetness tames the spice while the nuts give a crunchy, flavourful contrast.
Pro Tips: How to Brew the Perfect Espresso for Cocktails
- Choose medium to dark roast beans: They deliver rich crema and bold coffee notes that stand up to spirits.
- Grind fresh: Use finely ground beans and brew right before shaking to keep the crema thick.
- Cool slightly: Let espresso sit for about 2 minutes before adding to ice. This helps maintain that signature foam layer.
- No espresso machine? A moka pot or Nespresso shot works beautifully for home mixology.
FAQ's
A: Martini coupes or classic V-shaped martini glasses work best. Coupes are great for smaller flights because they show off the frothy top, while V-shaped glasses give a sleek, elegant presentation. Make sure they're chilled before serving for that perfect frosty finish.
A: Choose a smooth, neutral vodka so it doesn't overpower the coffee flavour. Mid- to high-quality brands like Grey Goose, Belvedere, or Tito's work well. Flavoured vodkas (like vanilla) can also be fun if you want a slightly sweeter twist.
A: The three coffee beans traditionally garnish the Classic Espresso Martini as a symbol of health, wealth, and happiness. They also add a classic decorative touch that makes the cocktail feel special and traditional.
Equipment Used: Final Touch Espresso Martini Flight Set, Featuring three 4.75 oz titanium-reinforced, lead-free crystal coupes, each designed to hold that velvety layer of foam while enhancing the aroma and flavour of every sip. The natural cork tray adds warmth and stability, keeping each glass secure as you serve in style.
Perfectly sized for espresso martini tastings, cocktail flights or dessert pairings. A stylish way to elevate your cocktail hour and impress your guests this holiday season. Explore the full collection at Final Touch.
📖 Recipe
Espresso Martini Flight (3 Ways) Classic, S'mores & Spicy Tequila
Equipment
- 1 Espresso Martini Flight Set 4 Pieces – 4.75 oz (140 ml)
Ingredients
- Note: These recipes are for three 4 ¾ oz martini coupe glasses. See NOTES below for the Classic Espresso Martini for a 10-oz glass.
For the Classic & S'mores Martinis (Shake these together and top separately)
- 1 ½ oz vodka
- ¼ oz simple syrup
- ¾ oz Kahlúa (or a coffee liqueur)
- ¼ oz Tia Maria
- 2 oz freshly brewed espresso
- ice
For the Spicy Espresso Martini
- ¾ oz tequila
- ¼ oz simple syrup
- ½ oz Kahlúa (or a coffee liqueur)
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
- ice
Toppings & Garnishes
- Classic: 3 espresso beans
- S'mores: Chocolate shavings and 3 toasted mini marshmallows on a skewer
- Spicy: Lime zest, a dash of cayenne, and a small Thai red chili or a few thin slices
Instructions
Brew the Espresso
- Make fresh espresso and let it cool slightly so it doesn't melt the ice too quickly.
Chill the Glasses
- Place three martini coupes in the freezer for 5-10 minutes to chill.
Make the Classic & S'mores Martinis
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, simple syrup, Kahlúa, Tia Maria, and espresso. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until chilled and frothy. Strain half the mixture into one coupe for the Classic Martini and the other half into another coupe for the S'mores Martini.
- Garnish the Classic Espresso Martini with three coffee beans to represent the Italian tradition symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness. Garnish the S'mores Martini with chocolate shavings plus a toasted marshmallow skewer.
Make the Spicy Tequila Martini
- Rinse the shaker, then fill it with ice. Add tequila, simple syrup, Kahlúa, and espresso. Shake for 15-20 seconds and strain into the third coupe.
- Garnish with lime zest, a dash of cayenne, and small Thai red chili or a few thin slices.
Serve immediately
- Present all three as a flight and enjoy the variety of flavours side by side. Please drink responsibly.
💬We'd really appreciate your feedback!
- Please take a moment to rate and review this recipe below. Your thoughts help others, and it would really make our day! Thank you – James & Elaine!
Notes
Classic Espresso Martini Recipe (10-oz Glass)
- 1 ½ oz vodka
- ½ oz simple syrup
- ¾ oz Kahlúa (or a coffee liquor)
- ½ oz Tia Maria
- 2 ½ oz freshly brewed espresso
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