Description
A festive autumn twist on the classic espresso martini. Rich, dark-roasted espresso meets homemade spiced vodka and handcrafted caramel simple syrup, shaken vigorously into a cold, velvety cocktail topped with a thick, irresistible foam.
Ingredients
For the Cocktail:
- 2 oz pumpkin-spice infused vodka*
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso, cooled
- ½ oz caramel simple syrup (or more to taste for extra sweetness)*
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice
For the Garnish (Optional):
- Toasted marshmallow or a dusting of ground pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Combine: In a cocktail shaker, combine the pumpkin-spice infused vodka, cooled espresso, caramel simple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
- Ice: Fill the shaker generously with ice.
- Shake: Shake very hard for 15–20 seconds to achieve that signature thick espresso-martini foam.
- Strain: Double strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with a toasted marshmallow or a dusting of pumpkin spice. Serve immediately.
Notes
*Pumpkin-Spice Infused Vodka
Ingredients: 1 fifth of vodka (750 ml), 4 cinnamon sticks, 2 star anise, 1 tbsp whole cloves, 1 tbsp whole allspice (Optional: 1 tbsp whole mace or crushed cardamom pods).
Prep: Combine all ingredients in a large mason jar. Let sit for 2 to 7 days, tasting daily until desired flavor profile is achieved. Strain out all whole spices before using.
*Caramel Simple Syrup
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water.
Prep: In a non-reactive saucepan, add 1 cup sugar over low heat. Let melt and darken, stirring gently until it reaches a bronzy color and rich caramel aroma. Meanwhile, bring 1 cup water to a boil in a separate pot. Very carefully, slowly add the boiling water to the melted sugar while stirring continuously until smooth and lump-free. Remove from heat, let cool completely, and refrigerate in a lidded jar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Cocktail, drink
- Method: Shaken, infused
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 240