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Creamy Espresso Martini Recipe With Baileys

This creamy espresso martini recipe with Baileys is the perfect drink for coffee lovers. Made with fresh espresso, Irish cream liqueur and vodka, this coffee cocktail will take your evening to the next level.

Side shot of cocoa powder being sifted onto a creamy espresso martini in martini glass with coffee beans in background.

Ready to take your coffee game up a notch? Say hello to the Espresso Martini recipe with Baileys—a cocktail that’s got it all: caffeine, booze, and enough sass to turn your night from “meh” to “YES!” in just a few sips. 

This drink is like your favorite coffeehouse got a glamorous, boozy makeover and showed up at happy hour.

Let’s be real: an espresso martini is the kind of cocktail that makes you feel fancy AF without even trying. It’s perfect for those late-night gatherings when you want to impress your friends, or even for a solo treat when you’re feeling a little extra on a Tuesday night. 

With the addition of Baileys Irish Cream, this classic cocktail gets a creamy, dreamy twist that’ll have you wondering why you haven’t been sipping on this your entire life. It’s smooth, frothy, and decadent—a total showstopper of a drink.

Imagine this: you’re holding a martini glass filled with chilled espresso, velvety Baileys, a splash of vodka, and a touch of Kahlua. Every sip is like a hug for your taste buds, with that perfect balance of coffee, chocolate, and cream. 

And don’t forget the creamy foam layer—it’s a must-have that adds to the whole boujee experience. So, put on your favorite playlist, grab your cocktail shaker, and let’s make some espresso magic!

If you love an elegant cocktail you may also want to try my Christmas Cranberry Gin Cocktail Recipe or my Pink Gin Spritz.

​WHY THIS IS THE BEST ESPRESSO MARTINI

  • Caffeine Meets Booze: It’s the best of both worlds—like a cup of coffee that’s ready to party!
  • Smooth and Creamy: The Baileys adds a luscious, velvety texture that makes each sip feel like dessert.
  • Simple and Sophisticated: With just a few ingredients and a good shake, you’ll have a bar-worthy cocktail at home in minutes.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, date night, or simply a Friday night treat, this martini is sure to impress.

SIMPLE INGREDIENTS YOU NEED FOR THE ESPRESSO MARTINI RECIPE WITH BAILEYS

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make the perfect after-dinner drink (the exact measurements and full recipe are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

  • Vodka – the star of the show. Vanilla vodka, espresso vodka, or infused vodka of choice can also be used for extra flavor. Grey goose is our choice.
  • Coffee liqueur – we’re talking about kahlua coffee liqueur.
  • A shot of espresso – chilled and ready for action. Can also use decaf espresso for less caffeine if desired. If you don’t have a coffee machine or espresso maker, you can also use cold brew concentrate.
  • Bailey’s Irish Cream – because why not indulge? Can use dairy-free Bailey’s for a dairy-free version.
  • Ice cubes – the more, the merrier.
  • Espresso beans, coffee beans, or chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional, but they sure look snazzy)
  • Optional – simple syrup if you like extra sweetness, Tia Maria, cocoa powder, irish whiskey, etc.

Two martini glasses filled with an easy espresso cocktail on silver platter.

HOW TO MAKE THE CREAMY MARTINI RECIPE

1. Brew the Espresso:

  • Start by brewing your espresso using your favorite method. If you don’t have an espresso machine, don’t fret! A French press or a moka pot will also work. Chill the espresso in the fridge for about half an hour.

2. Chill Your Glass:

  • To keep things cool and classy, pop your martini glasses into the freezer for a quick 10-minute spa treatment.

3. Let’s Get This Party Started:

  • In a cocktail shaker (or your designated dance floor), combine vodka, coffee liqueur, chilled espresso, and heavy cream.
  • Toss in a bunch of ice cubes – the more, the merrier! They’ll not only chill the party but also give your martini that enchanting frothy texture.
  • Now, secure the shaker’s lid and let your inner bartender shine! Give it a vigorous shake like you mean it for a solid 10-15 seconds. The longer you shake, the frothier your martini will be.

4. Strain and Show Off:

  • Retrieve your martini glass from the freezer and strain the fabulous mixture into the frosty glass. A fine-mesh strainer or a trusty cocktail strainer will ensure no uninvited ice shards crash this soirée.

5. Time to Glam It Up:

  • If you’re feeling extra fancy (and why wouldn’t you be?), garnish your creamy espresso martini with a sprinkle of espresso beans or coffee beans. It’s like the cherry on top, but better!

6. Sip, Savor, and Swoon:

  • Now, take your time. Sip and savor the magic of your perfect espresso martini. It’s a caffeinated cocktail symphony that deserves your full attention.

Close up shot of coffee cocktail in a glass with espresso beans on top.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR BEST RESULTS

  • Chill Everything: The espresso, the glasses, even the vodka if you can! Keeping things cold is key for that perfect, frothy finish.
  • Use Fresh Espresso: Freshly brewed espresso gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a rush, cold brew concentrate or chilled fresh hot coffee can work as a substitute.
  • Shake Vigorously: Don’t be shy—really put your back into it when shaking! The more you shake, the better the frothy top.
  • Don’t Skip the Garnish: Espresso beans or cocoa powder not only make it look fancy but add a little extra flavor too.

FAQS

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CLASSIC ESPRESSO MARTINI AND A BAILEYS ESPRESSO MARTINI RECIPE?

While both are delicious coffee-flavored cocktails, the creamy espresso martini recipe includes heavy cream or another cream liqueur to give it a smoother and richer texture. It’s like a coffee and dessert in one glass.

CAN I USE ANY TYPE OF VODKA FOR THIS RECIPE?

You can use your preferred vodka, but a high-quality, neutral vodka is generally recommended for the best results. It allows the coffee and cream flavors to shine.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO CHILL THE ESPRESSO QUICKLY?

To chill the espresso rapidly, you can place the freshly brewed espresso in a metal container or mason jar and put it in the freezer for a shorter time, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can brew the espresso ahead of time and refrigerate it until it’s cold.

CAN I USE INSTANT COFFEE OR INSTANT ESPRESSO POWDER INSTEAD?

While freshly brewed espresso is ideal for the best rich coffee flavor, you can use strong brewed coffee, instant coffee granules dissolved in hot water, or coffee concentrate as a substitute. Adjust the strength to your taste.

Front facing view of classic holiday cocktaili with shaker cup in background.

HOW CAN I MAKE A NON-ALCOHOLIC CREAMY ESPRESSO MARTINI RECIPE?

To make a non-alcoholic version, omit the vodka and coffee liqueur, and replace them with cold brew coffee or a coffee-flavored syrup. You can also use non-alcoholic coffee liqueur alternatives available in some stores.

CAN I PREPARE THE BAILEYS ESPRESSO MARTINI AHEAD OF TIME AND STORE IT IN THE FRIDGE?

It’s best to prepare the creamy espresso martini recipe just before serving to enjoy its freshness and frothy creamy top. However, you can pre-mix the main ingredients (excluding ice) and store them in the fridge for a short time if needed. Shake with ice just before serving.

WHAT’S A SUITABLE GARNISH FOR YOUR DELICIOUS COCKTAIL?

Espresso beans or coffee beans make a fantastic garnish. You can also use a dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for added flair.

Other Caffeinated Drinks You May Enjoy!

Yield: 2 martinis

Creamy Espresso Martini Recipe With Baileys

front facing view of classic espresso martini with shaker cup in background

This creamy espresso martini recipe is the perfect drink for coffee lovers. Made with fresh espresso, Irish cream liqueur and vodka, this coffee cocktail will take your evening to the next level.

Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4oz vodka
  • 2oz Bailey's Irish Cream liqueur
  • 1 oz Kaluah
  • 4 shots espresso
  • 1 cup ice

Instructions

  1. Start by brewing your espresso using your favorite method. If you don't have an espresso machine, don't fret! A French press or a moka pot will also work. Chill the espresso in the fridge for about half an hour.
  2. To keep things cool and classy, pop your martini glasses into the freezer for a quick 10-minute spa treatment.
  3. In a cocktail shaker combine vodka, Bailey's, coffee liqueur, and chilled espresso.
  4. Toss in a bunch of ice cubes – the more, the merrier! They'll not only chill the party but also give your martini that enchanting frothy texture.
  5. Now, secure the shaker's lid and let your inner bartender shine! Give it a vigorous shake like you mean it for a solid 10-15 seconds. The longer you shake, the frothier your martini will be.
  6. Retrieve your martini glasses from the freezer and strain the fabulous mixture into the frosty glasses. A fine-mesh strainer or a trusty cocktail strainer will ensure no uninvited ice shards crash this soirée.
  7. If you're feeling extra fancy (and why wouldn't you be?), garnish your creamy espresso martinis with a sprinkle of espresso beans or coffee beans. You can also sprinkle some cocoa powder on top for a delicious chocolate flavor.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

2

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 243Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 20mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 0gSugar: 11gProtein: 0g

The nutrition information provided is calculated based on industry-standard software and should be used as a general guide only. The information may vary depending on ingredient substitutions, cooking techniques, and individual serving sizes. It is the responsibility of the reader to ensure the accuracy and appropriateness of the nutritional information provided. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical or nutritional advice.

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Instagram

IF YOU TRIED THIS MARTINI COCKTAIL RECIPE PLEASE LEAVE IT A COMMENT IN THE COMMENT SECTION AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS CLASSIC ESPRESSO MARTINI RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails

bailey

About Bailey

I love to bake, cook, exercise, and document all of the above. Nutrition is not low fat. It is not low calorie. It’s not feeling deprived or being hungry all the time. It’s nourishing your body with real, whole foods so that you are consistently satisfied and energized to live your life to the fullest! Read more…

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