How To Make an Italian Espresso Corretto (Step-by-Step Recipe)
The first time I made an Espresso Corretto at home, I wasn’t sure if I was doing it right. Do you mix the liquor in first? Do you sip them separately? Italians seem to have their little traditions. But one thing is certain: there’s no wrong way to enjoy this bold and simple drink. So here's how to make it the right way:
Equipment
- Espresso machine or Moka pot – For a strong, authentic espresso shot.
- A demitasse cup – A small cup keeps the flavors concentrated.
- A teaspoon – To measure and stir the liquor into the espresso.
Ingredients
- 1 shot of freshly brewed espresso
- ½ to 1 teaspoon of your preferred liquor (Grappa, Sambuca, Brandy, etc.)
- Optional: Sugar or a twist of lemon zest for extra flavor
Instructions
- Brew the Espresso: Start with a high-quality espresso shot. If you have an espresso machine, great! If not, a Moka pot works just as well. The key is using fresh, finely ground coffee to get that rich crema and bold taste.
- Choose Your Liquor: This is where you get to play around. If you want to stick to tradition, Grappa is the go-to. But if you like something smoother, Brandy or Sambuca might be more your style. Pour ½ to 1 teaspoon of your chosen liquor—it’s a small amount, but trust me, you’ll taste it.
- Combine & Stir: You can either pour the liquor directly into your espresso and stir or sip the liquor separately, as some Italians do. Stirring it in blends the flavors, creating a smoother, more balanced drink.
- Enjoy: Sip it slowly and let the warmth of the espresso and liquor mix together. It’s a small drink, but it packs a punch, so take your time.