My family's go-to before-dinner drink for holidays is an espresso martini and once you try it with tequila, the vodka version just doesn't hit the same. Reposado adds an earthy depth that actually complements the espresso instead of getting lost behind it. I use G4 reposado and skip the Baileys every time: three ingredients, one shaker, five minutes.
If you love espresso martinis, you have to try the tequila version. Vodka tends to be overpowered by coffee, while tequila actually holds its own. The earthy, slightly smoky notes work with the espresso rather than hiding underneath it, and the result is a bolder, more interesting cocktail that's just as easy to shake up at home.
I make this regularly, and it's become my favorite nightcap. Three ingredients, one shaker, and about 20 seconds of hard shaking to get that frothy top. Whether you reach for a coffee-forward reposado like Quintaliza, which is aged in cold brew coffee barrels and perfect for this, or any quality 100% blue agave reposado or blanco, this cocktail delivers every time.
No espresso machine? No problem. Cold brew concentrate works as a great shortcut and still gives you a solid froth
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Ingredients
Use a 100% blue agave reposado or blanco reposado. I reach for G4 reposado most often.
See the recipe card below for the remaining ingredients and quantities.
Substitutions & Variations
- Make it sweeter. The coffee liqueur handles most of the sweetness, but if you want more, add a splash of simple syrup or agave.
- Make it creamy. Add an ounce of Baileys or heavy cream for a richer, creamier version.
- Caffeine-free. Swap in decaf espresso. You'll still get the flavor and froth without the buzz.
Instructions
Step 1: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and pour in 3 oz of tequila.
Step 2: Next, add in 2 oz of coffee liqueur.
Step 3: Add in 3 oz of espresso. Shake, long and hard for 20 seconds until the tin is cold to the touch and the cocktail has frothed.
Step 4: Strain your tequila espresso martini into a chilled martini glass or coupe glass. Garnish with 3 espresso beans, serve and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Tequila Espresso Martini
- Use fresh espresso. Espresso has a natural crema that creates the froth. The fresher the shot, the better the foam. Cold brew concentrate is a solid backup, but fresh is always best.
- Chill your glass. Pop your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes before you pour. It keeps the drink colder longer and makes the whole thing feel more elevated.
- Shake hard. Twenty full seconds, vigorous the whole way. This is what builds the foam, don't skip this.
Serving
Serve these tequila espresso martinis right away so they'll stay chilled and foamy. This is a great cocktail to share on date night as it's 2 servings and a perfect nightcap following Italian pasta sauce and meatballs.
Serving this at your next party? Pair it with my buffalo chicken dip or air fryer potatoes for the ultimate happy hour spread.
Did you make this recipe? Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating and a comment below-I'd love to hear how it turned out! THANK YOU!
Tequila Espresso Martini
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Ingredients
- 3 ounces tequila
- 3 ounces espresso
- 2 ounces Kahlua
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, add ice to the top and pour in 3 ounces of tequila.
- Pour 3 ounces of freshly brewed espresso into the shaker.
- Pour in the Kahlua. Cap the shaker and shake long and vigorously for 20 seconds.
- Use a cocktail strainer to strain the espresso martini into 2 chilled martini glasses.
- Garnish each martini with 3 espresso beans, serve and enjoy!
Sarah's Tips
- Use fresh espresso. The fresher the shot, the better the foam. Cold brew concentrate works as a backup.
- Shake hard for a full 20 seconds. Use long, full strokes - stretch your arm fully above your head and back down. The bigger the shake, the better the foam.
- Chill your glass beforehand. A cold martini or coupe glass keeps the drink colder and the foam intact longer.
- Serve immediately. The froth goes away quicky so pour and serve right away.
Tools I Use for This Recipe
- Espresso Machine
Denice Uzitas says
Can is use a store bought cold brew for this recipe? Or can I use a cold brew concentrate?
Sarah Hill says
Hi Denice, either should work. I would recommend the concentrate over cold brew as it will have more flavor similar to an espresso shot.
Linda says
Yes, I have made this a couple times for my girlfriend‘s birthday and to just try it to see if we liked it. It’s delicious. And so easy.
Carol O'B says
Soo yummy! Super easy to make.
Trish says
These were amazing! Thanks Sarah. 🍸