There's a reason the espresso martini has become one of the most popular cocktails in the world. It delivers the perfect balance of bold espresso, smooth vodka, rich coffee liqueur, and a velvety foam that feels equally at home during brunch, happy hour, or after dinner.
Add Baileys Original Irish Cream into the mix, and you create an even creamier, dessert-inspired cocktail that's become a favorite for coffee lovers everywhere.
Whether you're making your very first espresso martini or looking for creative new twists, these are our favorite espresso martini recipes with Baileys to enjoy all year long.
Classic Baileys Espresso Martini
If you're only making one version, start here.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Baileys Original Irish Cream
- 1 oz vodka (Tito's Handmade Vodka, Ketel One, or Grey Goose)
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso (cooled)
- ½ oz Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur
- Ice
- Three coffee beans for garnish
Directions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add Baileys, vodka, espresso, and Kahlúa.
- Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds.
- Double strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with three coffee beans.
Why you'll love it: Creamy, smooth, and perfectly balanced with rich coffee flavor.
Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
Sweet, salty, and incredibly smooth.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Baileys Salted Caramel
- 1 oz vanilla vodka
- 1 oz espresso
- ½ oz Kahlúa
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Garnish with caramel drizzle and flaky salt.
Chocolate Mocha Espresso Martini
Perfect for dessert lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Baileys Chocolate
- 1 oz espresso
- 1 oz vodka
- ½ oz coffee liqueur
- Chocolate syrup
Garnish with shaved chocolate or cocoa powder.
Frozen Baileys Espresso Martini
A summer favorite.
Ingredients
Blend until smooth and serve immediately.
Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini
Perfect for fall entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Baileys Pumpkin Spice
- 1 oz espresso
- 1 oz vanilla vodka
- ½ oz coffee liqueur
Dust with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Hazelnut Espresso Martini
Nutty and rich.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Baileys
- ¾ oz Frangelico
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz espresso
- ½ oz Kahlúa
Top with crushed hazelnuts.
Bourbon Espresso Martini with Baileys
A bold twist for whiskey lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Baileys
- 1 oz Buffalo Trace Bourbon
- 1 oz espresso
- ½ oz coffee liqueur
The bourbon adds warm vanilla and oak notes that pair beautifully with the coffee.
Tips for the Perfect Espresso Martini
Use fresh espresso
Freshly brewed espresso creates the thick, creamy foam that makes this cocktail so recognizable.
Shake longer than you think
A vigorous 15–20 second shake creates a silky texture and rich foam.
Chill your glass
A cold martini glass helps preserve the cocktail's texture and presentation.
Use quality ingredients
The biggest flavor difference comes from using premium spirits.
We recommend:
- Baileys Original Irish Cream
- Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur
- Tito's Handmade Vodka
- Ketel One Vodka
- Grey Goose Vodka
- Buffalo Trace Bourbon (for whiskey variations)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make an espresso martini with Baileys?
Absolutely. Baileys adds creaminess and subtle chocolate-vanilla notes that complement espresso beautifully.
Do you still use Kahlúa?
Yes. While Baileys provides sweetness and cream, Kahlúa adds deeper roasted coffee flavor that creates a more balanced cocktail.
What's the best vodka for an espresso martini?
Tito's Handmade Vodka, Ketel One, Grey Goose, and Belvedere are all excellent choices thanks to their clean, smooth finish.
Can I make one without vodka?
Yes. Swap the vodka for bourbon, reposado tequila, or even dark rum for a unique variation.
Stock Your Home Bar
The secret to making restaurant-quality espresso martinis at home starts with great ingredients. Whether you're picking up Baileys Original Irish Cream, premium vodka, coffee liqueur, or bourbon for a creative twist, BottleStork makes it easy to have your favorites delivered right to your door.
Browse our full collection of Irish cream liqueurs, vodkas, coffee liqueurs, and cocktail essentials, then shake up your next espresso martini with confidence.
