This Frozen Espresso Martini Is the Drink of the Summer (2024)

Here’s your signature summer co*cktail: the frozen espresso martini! The classic espresso martini has vaulted into one of the most popular co*cktails in America. So why not try a frozen spin on the classic?

We created our own spin on this recipe and it is extremely simple to make! Many recipes call for making espresso and freezing it into ice cubes, but who has time for that? You can make our version in just 5 minutes in a blender. The creamy, frosty flavor with rich coffee undertones is absolutely divine. We can’t wait for you to try it!

Ingredients in a frozen espresso martini

As co*cktail experts with over 300 co*cktail recipes in our library, this one has a special place in our hearts! It came about as a happy accident. Wondering if we could simply use bottled cold brew coffee in a frozen version of the classic Espresso Martini, we whipped out our blender. Turns out, it works perfectly—meaning you can have the frozen version of this co*cktail ready in just 5 minutes. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

• Vodka:The smooth,neutral spirit provides a base for the co*cktail,allowing the other flavors to shine.
• Kahlúa:This coffee liqueur adds sweetness and a hint of rum complexity to the mix.
• Cold brew coffee (or strong coffee):The strong,concentrated coffee brings the bold,caffeinated essence of espresso to the martini without the need to make espresso. You can also make coffee using your favorite method: make it double strength and chill it before blending.
• Sugar:Sugar balances the bitterness of the coffee and enhances the overall flavor. If desired, you can substitute with simple syrup, maple syrup, or agave syrup, using ¾ of the sugar specified in the recipe.
• Ice:Crushed or cubed ice chills the co*cktail and creates a frosty,refreshing texture.

How to make a frozen espresso martini: step by step

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, the frozen espresso martini is quick and simple to blend. Here are the basic steps (or scroll down for the recipe):

Step 1: Gather the ingredients: 1 cup cold brew coffee, ¼ cup Kahlua, ¼ cup vodka, 3 tablespoons sugar, and 3 cups ice.

Step 2: Blend the ingredients in a blender.

Step 3: Pour into glasses and garnish with 3 coffee beans.

What’s an espresso martini?

The Espresso Martini is a vodka martini made with coffee that was invented in 1983. London bartenderDick Bradsell of the Soho Brasseriecreated the drink for a patron who asked for a drink to wake her up.

Apparently the coffee machine was right next to the drink station, and the Espresso Martini was born. The name came in the 1990’s when flavored martinis were all the rage.

How does a frozen espresso martini differ from a regular one?

The main difference is texture. A frozen espresso martini is blended with ice, creating a slushy, refreshing drink, similar to a frozen margarita. The flavor profile is similar to the classic co*cktail.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a bit more sugar. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount. We don’t suggest omitting it.

What kind of garnish should I use?

Coffee beans are the classic choice, but you can also use a sprinkle of cocoa powder or even a dollop of whipped cream.

Can I make a large batch ahead of time?

It’s best to blend right before serving to have the correct slushy texture. If desired, you can mix up the liquids and refrigerate, then blend with ice right before serving. You can also blend and freeze for up to 1 hour, then stir with a fork before serving.