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espresso martini recipe

How To Make An Espresso Margarita (Easy & Quick Recipe)

I love that this cocktail is easy to make, and once you nail it, you'll want to make it over and over again.
Anyway, the key here is balancing the bold espresso with smooth tequila and just the right amount of sweetness.
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Total Time 5 minutes

Equipment

  • Espresso machine or coffee maker To brew a fresh shot of espresso (or use instant coffee as a substitute).
  • Cocktail Shaker A must-have for mixing the ingredients properly and chilling the drink.
  • Jigger or Measuring Tool To ensure precise measurements of tequila, coffee liqueur, and other ingredients.
  • Strainer: Helps achieve a smooth pour without excess ice or foam.
  • Citrus Juicer Makes squeezing fresh lime juice easier and ensures you get the best flavor.
  • Rimming Dish or Small Plate For adding salt or sugar to the rim of your glass.
  • Margarita or Coupe Glass The perfect glass for serving this stylish cocktail.

Ingredients
  

  • 1 shot espresso (freshly brewed)
  • 1.5 oz tequila blanco (I love using Fortaleza Blanco—it’s smooth, slightly citrusy, and pairs perfectly with espresso)
  • 0.75 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 0.5 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Ice (for shaking)
  • Salt or sugar (for rimming the glass)
  • Lime wedge or coffee beans (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Your Glass: Rim a chilled margarita or coupe glass with salt or sugar. (I usually go for sugar, as it complements the coffee flavors nicely.) Set the glass aside while you mix the cocktail.
  • Brew the Espresso: Pull a fresh shot of espresso and let it cool slightly. If it’s too hot, it’ll melt the ice in the shaker too quickly and water down the drink. (Pro tip: I sometimes use a double shot for extra richness.)
  • Shake the Cocktail: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add tequila, coffee liqueur, simple syrup, lime juice, and espresso. Then shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the shaker feels icy cold.
  • Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into your prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wedge or a few coffee beans on top for a sleek finish.

Video

Notes

Final Tip: I love adding a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top. It gives the drink a little extra depth and warmth, making it feel even more special.