Looking for a showstopper cocktail that combines bold, silky espresso with irresistible caramel and just a hint of salt? The Salted Caramel Espresso Martini is your dream come true! This indulgent drink is equal parts smooth, sweet, and sophisticated, with layers of coffee and caramel flavor shining through in every sip. Whether you’re hosting friends for dessert, need a signature drink for your next gathering, or simply want to treat yourself, this martini is a surefire way to impress. One sip and you’ll see why it has quickly become a favorite in my own kitchen (and heart).
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of a Salted Caramel Espresso Martini lies in a handful of purposeful ingredients that pack a punch in both flavor and presentation. Each item plays a starring role to create that luscious, coffeehouse-meets-cocktail-bar experience you’re craving.
- Vodka: The smooth spirit base that lets the coffee and caramel flavors shine.
- Fresh brewed espresso (cooled): Rich, robust coffee brings boldness and crema to each sip—make sure it’s cooled so your drink stays frosty.
- Coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlua): Adds sweet depth and a true café kick to the mix.
- Salted caramel syrup: The signature sweetness with a salty edge; find it in stores or make your own for extra flair.
- Ice cubes: Essential for chilling, diluting, and creating that classic cocktail froth.
- Caramel sauce & sea salt flakes (for garnish): A finishing touch—drizzle, then sprinkle for both eye appeal and a satisfying salty crunch.
How to Make Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
Step 1: Prep Your Shaker
Start by filling a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice. The colder the ice, the better the froth! This not only chills your Salted Caramel Espresso Martini but ensures that beautiful, velvety head once poured.
Step 2: Combine and Pour
Pour in the vodka, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, and that decadent salted caramel syrup. Each ingredient should be measured for perfect balance—too much syrup and it’ll be overpowering, too little and you’ll miss that classic flavor twist.
Step 3: Shake It Up
Seal your shaker and shake vigorously for at least 15 seconds—the longer, the better! The goal is to create a frothy top that sits beautifully in the glass. Listen for the sound of the ice breaking up; that’s your signal everything’s blending together perfectly.
Step 4: Prepare Your Glass
Before pouring, give your martini glass a special touch by drizzling caramel sauce inside. Let it spiral or drip down the glass for a sweet, swirled effect—the signature look of a Salted Caramel Espresso Martini. This step turns a simple cocktail into a head-turner.
Step 5: Strain and Garnish
Strain your martini into the prepared glass (use a fine mesh strainer if you have one for an ultra-smooth pour). Finish by adding a little sprinkle of sea salt flakes right on top. That salty crunch with gooey caramel and rich coffee is absolute perfection.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
Garnishes
The garnish is much more than a finishing touch here—it ties the whole martini together. For the classic look, a spiral of caramel sauce along the inside of the glass and a small pinch of flaky sea salt on the crema really enhance the Salted Caramel Espresso Martini vibe. Want to go over the top? Try a few chocolate-covered espresso beans or even a thin caramel shard balanced on the rim.
Side Dishes
This cocktail absolutely loves company! Pair your Salted Caramel Espresso Martini with little bites that echo its flavors: think dark chocolate truffles, almond biscotti, or caramel-dipped shortbread cookies. Cheese plates are also a fun, unexpected match—salty blue cheese or creamy brie truly pop when you sip this martini alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is half the fun! For a playful twist, rim your martini glass with crushed toffee or brown sugar before pouring. If you’re serving a crowd, try preparing Salted Caramel Espresso Martinis in mini coupe glasses for tasting flights. You could even set up a DIY garnish station so everyone can get creative with caramel, chocolate curls, or their favorite sprinkles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Salted Caramel Espresso Martini mixture, simply pour it into a mason jar or airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It’ll taste best within 24 hours, as the espresso flavor and frothiness are freshest when made to order. Just give it a vigorous shake with ice again before serving.
Freezing
While these martinis are crafted to be enjoyed fresh, you can technically freeze the combined, ungarnished mix for up to two weeks. Leave out the ice and garnishes, and freeze in a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge, shake with fresh ice, and serve as usual for a near-perfect remake.
Reheating
Since this is a cold, shaken cocktail, you won’t want to reheat it! However, if your pre-made mix feels a little too cold or icy right from the fridge, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then shake with fresh ice until perfectly chilled and frothy before pouring.
FAQs
Can I make the Salted Caramel Espresso Martini without an espresso machine?
Absolutely! Strongly brewed coffee, especially from a moka pot or Aeropress, works beautifully as a substitute for fresh espresso. Just be sure it’s fully cooled before shaking.
Is salted caramel syrup easy to find?
Yes! Most grocery and coffee stores carry salted caramel syrup, or you can order it online. If you’re feeling adventurous, making homemade syrup is easier than you’d think and lets you control the salt and sweetness.
What kind of vodka works best?
A high-quality, smooth vodka is best for this recipe since it allows the coffee and caramel flavors to be the stars. If you have a caramel- or vanilla-infused vodka on hand, it can add an extra hit of flavor.
Can I make a vegan version of the Salted Caramel Espresso Martini?
Yes! Be sure your salted caramel syrup and coffee liqueur are dairy-free, and opt for a plant-based caramel sauce. The result is just as delicious and indulgent.
How do I get the perfect frothy top?
The key is shaking your cocktail hard and long (think 15–20 seconds) with plenty of ice. Fresh espresso naturally gives a better crema, but even with strong chilled coffee, lots of shaking helps create that signature martini froth.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a new signature cocktail or simply want to shake up your next happy hour, this Salted Caramel Espresso Martini is sure to delight. It’s an experience for the senses, with every element working in harmony. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it steals the spotlight at your table!
Print
Salted Caramel Espresso Martini Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of rich espresso, velvety caramel, and a kick of vodka with this Salted Caramel Espresso Martini. A luxurious cocktail that combines the best of coffee and spirits!
Ingredients
Vodka:
- 2 oz
Fresh Brewed Espresso (cooled):
- 1 oz
Coffee Liqueur (e.g., Kahlua):
- 1 oz
Salted Caramel Syrup:
- 1 oz
Ice Cubes
Caramel Sauce & Sea Salt Flakes for Garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, espresso, liqueur, and caramel syrup.
- Shake well until chilled and frothy.
- Drizzle caramel inside a martini glass, then strain the drink into the glass.
- Garnish with a pinch of sea salt on top.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg