The Espresso Martini has long been a beloved staple at cocktail bars worldwide, celebrated for its invigorating blend of coffee and vodka that makes it a favored choice for an evening pick-me-up. Recently, however, a delightful twist on this classic has emerged, captivating the palates of coffee and cocktail enthusiasts alike: the Hazelnut Espresso Martini. This variant introduces the rich, nutty flavors of hazelnut, merging seamlessly with the robust notes of espresso and the smoothness of vodka. The addition of hazelnut not only enhances the depth of the cocktail but also adds a creamy texture and an aroma that evokes the warmth of a cozy, fireside evening. As we delve into how to craft this exquisite cocktail, let’s explore how the hazelnut transforms the traditional Espresso Martini into an even more decadent and luxurious experience.
What is a Hazelnut Espresso Martini?
The Hazelnut Espresso Martini is a creative spin on the classic Espresso Martini, a cocktail originally concocted by London bartender Dick Bradsell in the late 1980s. According to legend, Bradsell created the drink in response to a model’s request for something that would “wake her up and then f**k her up,” leading to the birth of this vodka-based cocktail featuring freshly brewed espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup.
An Espresso Martini is typically known for its invigorating coffee kick and smooth, velvety texture, making it a popular choice for those looking to merge their love for coffee with a sophisticated alcoholic beverage. The Hazelnut Espresso Martini takes this a step further by integrating the rich, buttery flavor of hazelnut. This addition not only complements the strong coffee flavor but enhances it, offering a sweeter, slightly earthy profile that harmonizes beautifully with the robust depth of the espresso.
Hazelnut’s natural compatibility with coffee—often seen in popular coffee syrups and hazelnut-flavored coffees—makes it an ideal match for this cocktail. This version maintains the signature frothy top and the potent mix of caffeine and alcohol, making the Hazelnut Espresso Martini a luxurious and modern twist on an already favored classic.
How to Make a Hazelnut Espresso Martini
2
servings5
minutes300
kcalThe Hazelnut Espresso Martini is a decadent and elegant cocktail that combines the bold flavors of freshly brewed espresso with the smooth and nutty essence of hazelnut liqueur, all balanced with the clean taste of vodka and the depth of coffee liqueur. This cocktail is shaken to create a frothy top, then served in a chilled martini glass and garnished optionally with chocolate shavings or crushed hazelnuts, making it not only a pleasure to taste but also a delight to behold. Perfect for evening gatherings or as a luxurious after-dinner drink, it’s a sophisticated twist on the classic Espresso Martini.
Ingredients
1 1/2 oz Espresso, freshly brewed and cooled
1 oz Hazelnut liqueur
1 1/2 oz Vodka
1/2 oz Coffee liqueur
Ice cubes
Optional: Chocolate shavings or crushed hazelnuts for garnish
Directions
- Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment: Ensure that your espresso is brewed and cooled, and have your vodka, hazelnut liqueur, and coffee liqueur ready. Gather a cocktail shaker, ice, a strainer, and a chilled martini glass.
- Fill the Shaker with Ice: Start by filling your cocktail shaker about halfway with ice cubes to ensure your drink is properly chilled.
- Add the Ingredients: Pour the following into the shaker:
– 1 1/2 oz of cooled espresso
– 1 oz of hazelnut liqueur
– 1 1/2 oz of vodka
– 1/2 oz of coffee liqueur - Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid on your shaker and shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also creates a light, frothy top from the espresso.
- Strain into a Martini Glass: Hold a strainer over the shaker as you pour the mixture into a chilled martini glass to prevent ice chips from entering the drink.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with chocolate shavings or crushed hazelnuts to enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the cocktail at its best, ideally with the frothy top still intact.
Equipment
Notes
- Making the Perfect Espresso Shot:
Use Fresh Coffee: For the best flavor, use freshly ground coffee beans tailored for espresso. A dark roast is typically preferred for its strong flavor that stands up well in cocktails.
Proper Tamping: When preparing your espresso, make sure to tamp the grounds evenly to ensure a uniform extraction, which is crucial for achieving the right flavor and crema.
Water Temperature and Pressure: Ensure your espresso machine is set to the correct water temperature (around 195°F to 205°F) and pressure to extract the best flavor from the coffee grounds. - Alternatives for Hazelnut Liqueur:
Frangelico: The most common choice, offering a rich hazelnut flavor with hints of vanilla and dark chocolate.
Homemade Hazelnut Infusion: Infuse vodka with toasted hazelnuts for several days, then strain and sweeten slightly with sugar syrup for a DIY liqueur.
Hazelnut Syrup: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute hazelnut liqueur with a hazelnut-flavored syrup. Adjust the sweetness of the cocktail accordingly. - Tips for Chilling the Glass:
Freeze or Refrigerate: Place the martini glass in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before making the cocktail or refrigerate it for an hour. This keeps the cocktail chilled longer after pouring.
Ice Water Bath: For a quick chill, fill the glass with ice water while you prepare the cocktail, then dump it out just before straining the drink into it.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 0g
Conclusion
Crafting a Hazelnut Espresso Martini offers a delightful foray into the world of sophisticated cocktails, blending the robust energy of espresso with the creamy, nutty nuances of hazelnut. This cocktail is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual and aromatic experience, making it perfect for special occasions or as a refined end to a good meal.
As you become more comfortable with the basics of this drink, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your taste. Consider adjusting the proportions of the liqueurs or substituting the hazelnut with other flavors like almond or caramel for a different twist. The versatility of the Espresso Martini framework means the possibilities are nearly endless.
Most importantly, while enjoying the rich flavors and sophisticated buzz of your Hazelnut Espresso Martini, always remember to drink responsibly. Whether you’re sharing this delightful cocktail with friends or savoring it solo, it’s a beverage meant to be enjoyed slowly and savored fully. Cheers to the art of cocktail crafting and the joy it brings!
Frequently Asked Questions about Hazelnut Espresso Martini
1. Can I make this drink without a cocktail shaker?
Yes, if you don’t have a cocktail shaker, you can use a mason jar or any container with a tight-sealing lid. Fill it with the cocktail ingredients and ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously. Just be sure the seal is tight to avoid any leaks while shaking.
2. What can I use if I don’t have hazelnut liqueur?
If you don’t have hazelnut liqueur, you can substitute with other nut-flavored liqueurs like Amaretto (almond-flavored) or a walnut liqueur for a similar nutty profile. Alternatively, use hazelnut syrup for a non-alcoholic version, but adjust the sweetness as needed.
3. How do I make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?
For a non-alcoholic Hazelnut Espresso Martini, replace the vodka and coffee liqueur with non-alcoholic substitutes like a coffee-flavored syrup or a non-alcoholic distilled spirit designed to mimic vodka. Use a hazelnut syrup instead of the liqueur and proceed as usual with the recipe.
4. Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?
While espresso martinis are best enjoyed fresh, you can pre-mix the hazelnut liqueur, vodka, and coffee liqueur in advance. Store the mixture in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, shake the mixture with freshly brewed and cooled espresso and ice to ensure the drink is chilled and frothy.
5. What are some food pairings that go well with a Hazelnut Espresso Martini?
This cocktail pairs wonderfully with desserts, especially those featuring chocolate, hazelnut, or coffee flavors, such as tiramisu, chocolate fondue, or hazelnut gelato. For savory options, consider rich, creamy dishes like cheese platters or creamy pasta dishes that can complement the nutty, robust flavors of the martini.
