The easiest espresso martini you'll ever make

There are plenty of good reasons why “espresso martini” was the second-most searched beverage term on Google in 2022. And we just added one more.

We took the drink that’s been blowing up Google and TikTok and make it not only ridiculously easy to prepare but also low-alcohol.

Mind you, it’s OK to add that shot of vodka, but this version is so tasty, you won’t miss the 80-proof kick.

First off, we use a top-quality instant coffee like Starbucks or Juan Valdez to make our “instant espresso.”  

Invented in 1983, the original espresso martini called for coffee liqueur and vodka. Since we were aiming for something lighter that you could enjoy at brunch, a mid-day holiday wake-me-up or that last hour before midnight on New Year’s Eve, we swapped in Duplin American Port for the vodka and caramel syrup for the liqueur.

The port’s caramel notes and distinctive sweetness harmonize so perfectly with the coffee. Plus both the port and the caramel syrup add sweetness, meaning you may not need to add sugar. Totally up to you.

From there, everything goes into a cocktail shaker with ice. About 20 seconds of vigorous shaking, and you'll strain a professional-looking, frothy-topped espresso martini into an extra-large martini glass. A few chocolate sprinkles on top, and you'll be ready to sip until the sun comes up.