Big Batch Espresso Martinis Recipe

Name: Big Batch Espresso Martinis
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 260 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 (750ml) bottle of vodka; 1 cup coffee liqueur; 4 tablespoons instant espresso powder, plus more for garnish; 2 tablespoons simple syrup; Pinch of sea salt (optional); 1 cup hot water; Ice, for shaking; coffee beans or espresso powder for garnish (optional)

Ingredients

This recipe yields 8 servings. Quantities are adjusted automatically for different portions, but cooking steps remain the same. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

1 (750 ml) bottle of vodka
1 cup coffee liqueur
4 tablespoons instant espresso powder, plus extra for garnish
2 tablespoons simple syrup
1 pinch sea salt (optional)
Water, as needed
Ice, as needed
Coffee beans for garnish (optional)

Directions

Gather all ingredients and have them ready.
Pour out 1 cups of vodka from the bottle and set aside for another use.
Take half of the remaining vodka and warm it gently in a small saucepan over low heat for 1-2 minutes. Do not let it boil.
Remove from heat and whisk in the espresso powder until completely dissolved with no lumps. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes.
Return the cooled espresso vodka mixture to the bottle. Add coffee liqueur, simple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt. Cap and shake gently to combine.
Freeze the mixture for at least 4 hours. It will remain slightly liquid due to the alcohol content.
To serve, fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in 3 ounces of the mixture. Add ounce of water per serving. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass. Garnish with 3 coffee beans or a light dusting of espresso powder, if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 189
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 5mg
Total Carbohydrate: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Total Sugars: 14g
Protein: 0g
Calcium: 4mg
Iron: 0mg
Potassium: 64mg

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values may vary depending on your dietary needs.

Big Batch Espresso Martinis Recipe

The Story Behind the Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini, a modern classic cocktail, is believed to have been created in the 1980s by London bartender Dick Bradsell. The story goes that a famous model walked into his bar and asked for a drink that would "wake me up, and then mess me up." Bradsell combined vodka, coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso, and the iconic Espresso Martini was born. Over time, the cocktail has evolved into variations such as this big batch version, designed for entertaining and convenience.

Regional Nuances

While the Espresso Martini originated in London, it has been embraced globally with regional twists. In the United Kingdom, bartenders often use freshly ground espresso to preserve a rich crema and aromatic complexity. In the United States and Australia, variations sometimes incorporate flavored liqueurs like hazelnut or vanilla to cater to local taste preferences. In Italy, where espresso culture is sacred, the cocktail is sometimes served with a lighter coffee liqueur to balance the strong coffee notes.

How It Differs from Similar Drinks

At first glance, the Espresso Martini might seem similar to other coffee cocktails like the Black Russian or the White Russian. However, the key difference lies in the espresso itself, which gives this cocktail its distinct robust flavor and frothy crema. The Black Russian omits espresso entirely, relying solely on vodka and coffee liqueur, while the White Russian adds cream, resulting in a sweeter and less intense coffee profile.

Where Youll Typically Find It

Espresso Martinis are now a staple in cocktail bars, fine dining restaurants, and upscale lounges worldwide. They are often served after dinner as a digestif, combining the caffeine boost of espresso with the relaxing effect of alcohol. Seasonal events, holiday parties, and celebrations frequently feature the big batch variation to simplify serving multiple guests without losing quality or flavor.

Fun Facts and Trivia

The Espresso Martini was originally called the "Vodka Espresso" before its current name became popular in the 1990s.
Some bartenders garnish with three coffee beans, symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness.
Freezing big batch Espresso Martinis, as in this recipe, does not fully solidify due to alcohols low freezing point, making it a practical way to pre-mix for parties.
The cocktails caffeine content is relatively high for a mixed drink, making it a favorite for late-night socializing.
Modern variations often include vegan or dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut milk or oat cream, to appeal to contemporary tastes without sacrificing texture.

Whether enjoyed individually or prepared in a big batch for gatherings, the Espresso Martini combines sophistication, energy, and a hint of indulgence, making it a memorable cocktail that continues to delight coffee and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

FAQ about Big Batch Espresso Martinis Recipe

The Big Batch Espresso Martini mixture can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Due to its alcohol content, it will not fully freeze, but it will stay good for a long period if kept sealed in an airtight container.

Yes, you can substitute the coffee liqueur with another type of coffee-flavored liqueur, such as Kahlúa or Tia Maria. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile might slightly change depending on the brand you choose.

Yes, you can use any type of vodka you prefer. For best results, use a quality vodka that you enjoy the taste of, as it will impact the overall flavor of the martini.

The mixture doesn't freeze fully because of the alcohol content in the vodka and coffee liqueur. Alcohol lowers the freezing point of liquids, so it remains in a slushy consistency rather than freezing solid.

To serve, shake 3 ounces of the frozen mixture with ice and add about ½ ounce of water per serving. Shake well for 15-20 seconds, then strain the drink into a chilled martini or coupe glass. Optionally, garnish with three coffee beans or a dusting of espresso powder.

Yes, the Big Batch Espresso Martini is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare the mixture and store it in the freezer. You can then serve it at your convenience by following the serving instructions when you're ready to enjoy.

If you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can use a jar with a tight-fitting lid or any container that can hold the ice and liquid. Just shake it vigorously for the same amount of time to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed and chilled.

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup. Start with the recommended amount and taste the mixture before freezing it. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add more syrup to your taste.

If you have leftover espresso martini mixture, store it in an airtight container in the freezer. It should keep well for up to 2 months. Just remember that the mixture will stay slushy, so give it a good shake before serving.

Yes, you can scale down the recipe to make a smaller batch. Just ensure you maintain the correct proportions of the ingredients. For example, if you're making half the batch, use half the amount of vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso powder.

Comments

Barbara Hall

10/06/2022 08:47:09 PM

I had hoped for more precise measurements in this recipe. I also would have preferred to freeze it in a different container - I like the concept of using fewer dishes or containers, but the narrow bottle opening made it difficult to get the mixture out, even when not completely frozen. I used instant coffee because it's easier to dissolve and it was what I had on hand. While I understand it's not espresso, it still worked well.

Cook Time: 10 minutes