Tequila Espresso Martini

This delicious cocktail is where morning drinks and night drinks collide.  With a kick of both alcohol and caffeine, this smooth, rich, and tasty drink has it all! A tequila espresso martini is a fun twist on a classic espresso martini. 

The original vodka espresso martini was developed in the early 1980s by the legendary Dick Bradsell at The Soho Brasserie in London. From the huge success and popularity of the original Espresso Martini, the tasty tequila version emerged. The tequila in this cocktail adds an extra layer of flavor and depth which all tequila enthusiasts will adore. With the addition of tequila, this cocktail is sometimes called a Mexican espresso martini.

The robust flavor of tequila with espresso plus a touch of sweetness from simple syrup and coffee liqueur, creates a rich dessert-style drink that is smooth and creamy to sip.  Plus the use of the shaken cocktail technique creates a delicious layer of crema on top of the drink which makes it feel indulgent.

Ingredient Notes

This recipe uses only four simple ingredients that come together to make a deliciously creamy coffee cocktail.

• Tequila - You can use any kind of tequila to make this martini. We like to use Reposado Tequila because the aging in oak barrels adds another layer of rich flavor to this cocktail.  Blanco tequila would also be a good option.  
• Coffee liqueur - I normally use Kahlua, but you can use a different coffee liqueur if you prefer.  Any will work fine. 
• Espresso - I prefer fresh espresso for the strong coffee flavor! And the crema from espresso contains fatty oils that help create a thick foam when shaken.  If you don't have an espresso machine, you could use a strong brewed coffee from a french press or even cold brew coffee.
• Simple syrup - You can use homemade simple syrup or store-bought, whichever you prefer best! 
• Ice - This makes the cocktail cold and refreshing. This drink isn't traditionally served with ice but it is shaken with ice to chill it.

How to Make a Tequila Espresso Martini

It is quick and easy to make an espresso martini with tequila. You will need a cocktail shaker with a strainer and a jigger or measuring glass.

• STEP ONE: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• STEP TWO: Add the tequila, coffee liqueur, espresso and simple syrup to the cocktail shaker and shake well for 30 - 60 seconds.
• STEP THREE: Pour through a cocktail strainer into a chilled martini glass or coupe glass. Let it sit for a minute to allow the crema to float to the top. Add any desired garnish and serve immediately.

Expert Tips

• Use a jigger or a measuring cup to measure your ingredients accurately. A precise measurement can make a big difference in the balance and flavor of your cocktail.
• If you like things on the sweeter side, you can add a dash of extra simple syrup, maple syrup, or honey until it suits your exact preference.
• You should serve this martini immediately after making it. The longer you let it sit, the less foam there will be to enjoy.
• This cocktail requires to be shaken really well in order to create the iconic foam layer on top. Because of this, you can only make 1 - 2 servings at a time as that is how much fits into a cocktail shaker.
• If you are watching your caffeine intake, you can always make this martini with decaf espresso instead of regular.

More tequila cocktails to enjoy:

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