This Tequila Espresso Martini is a different take on the classic Espresso Martini and a cocktail you just have to try if you're a fan of coffee and tequila! It's really easy to make and great for any occasion!
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Why This Recipe Works
A classic with a twist - This cocktail is very similar to the classic everyone knows but instead of vodka, it calls for tequila. This adds an unexpected flavor and makes it more fun if you want to change up your favorite drink! If tequila tends to be your liqueur of choice, definitely give this espresso martini a try!
Perfect for coffee lovers - The strong flavor of espresso combined with Kahlua gives the cocktail lots of coffee flavor that get slightly softened with simple syrup and brightened by the tequila. Perfect for anyone who loves coffee!
Easy and simple - The ingredient list is super simple and it only takes a few minutes to make the cocktail. The recipe calls for homemade simple syrup but you can also use a little bit of maple syrup instead to make things easier. The cocktail is more on the bitter side so if you like your cocktails sweeter, definitely add more sweetener.
Ingredients
- Espresso - A classic espresso martini calls for a freshly brewed shot of espresso which is what I use in this cocktail too. You could also use regular coffee but it might not create the same foam and won't provide the same strong flavor as a shot of espresso will.
- Tequila - The recipe calls for Reposado tequila but you can also use Silver if preferred.
- Coffee liqueur - You can use any coffee liqueur you have. I always have Kahlua on hand so that is what I used.
- Simple syrup - I recommend making your own which is super easy. All you need is any kind of sugar (use cane sugar for the most neutral flavor) and water in a 1:1 ratio. If you don't want to make simple syrup, you can add maple syrup to the cocktail but just a smaller amount.
The Classic
If you wanted to make the classic Espresso Martini, it's super simple. The classic one has all the same ingredients, except there is vodka instead of Tequila. It's made with espresso, coffee liqueur, simple syrup, and a shot of vodka. Vodka is more neutral in flavor and coffee definitely overpowers it. Tequila will be more noticeable in this drink so the version you choose is really up to you based on what liquor you prefer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
A cocktail shaker is ideal for this drink but if you don't have one, you can use a mason jar instead. Just use the lid as a strainer when straining your cocktail!
Add tequila, simple syrup, coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso into your cocktail shaker or a medium mason jar.
Add a handful of ice and close with a lid. Shake the cocktail vigorously for 5-10 seconds until very frothy and cool to the touch.
Serving
- Just like regular espresso martini, this Tequila one is best served in a martini glass or a coupe glass.
- You can serve the cocktail as is or you can garnish it with three coffee beans to make it extra fancy.
- It should be served right away. The longer you let it sit, the less foam there will be.
FAQs
I recommend using a non-alcoholic tequila or vodka for this cocktail. It's hard to make it into a virgin cocktail otherwise because tequila is an important part of the cocktail.
This cocktail unfortunately requires to be shaken really well in order to create all that amazing foam on top. Because of this, you can only make 1-2 servings at a time because that's how much fits into one cocktail shaker.
More Tequila Cocktails
Tequila is definitely my favorite liquor to make cocktails with so you'll find lots of different recipes on this site! Below are four of my favorites. To see all the latest cocktails head over to the Cocktails Category.
📖 Recipe
Tequila Espresso Martini
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 1x
- Category: cocktail
- Method: no cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Tequila Espresso Martini is a fun spin on the classic Espresso Martini and a cocktail you just have to try if you're a fan of coffee and tequila! It's really easy to make and great for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (1 shot of espresso)
- 2 oz silver tequila
- ½ oz Kahlua
- ½-1 oz simple syrup (or 2 teaspoon maple syrup, see notes on how to make simple syrup)
- Large handful ice
Instructions
- Brew a shot of espresso and add it to a cocktail shaker or a large mason jar along with the tequila, Kahlua, and simple syrup or maple syrup.
- Add a large handful of ice and close with a lid. Shake the cocktail vigorously for 5-10 seconds until very cold and foamy.
- Strain the drink into a martini or coupe glass and enjoy!
Notes
Simple syrup: Combine equal parts of sugar and water in a small saucepan. I used ½ cup sugar and ½ cup water. Maple syrup, cane sugar, or brown sugar are all great options for this cocktail and you can use leftovers in your coffee drinks or any other cocktails. Bring the syrup to a boil stirring often to make sure the sugar melts and doesn’t burn. Lower the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Transfer to a glass jar and allow to cool before storing. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Espresso: This drink works best with a small shot of espresso but you can use regular coffee or cold brew too. The flavor just won’t be as concentrated. Use decaf if necessary.
Gwynn says
A delicious and elegant cocktail that's perfect for holiday entertaining!
Amy Liu Dong says
Totally wow! This espresso is something else, looks so delicious and refreshing! Everything just looks perfect! I'll definitely try this at home! Thanks for sharing this with us!
Will says
why rate it if you havent tried it??
Sarah James says
I love this twist on a classic, coffee and tequila are two of my favourite things. The perfect recipe for the holiday season.
Ann says
This drink was delicious! I was literally following your step by step pictures on my phone while making this drink behind our bar ;)
Kari says
This was such a great recipe and I will definitely make again!