Exploring the cocktail classic, its roots, and how to reinvent it—your way.
The espresso martini is a cocktail that commands attention. Dark, smooth, and packing both caffeine and spirit, it’s a drink that’s stood the test of time. But like any icon, it’s ripe for reinvention.
At OROMA®, we’ve taken the espresso martini into new territory—blending 100% Arabica espresso, ultra-premium vodka, and natural sweetness in a ready-to-pour format that’s both clean and indulgent. But the beauty of this cocktail lies in its flexibility.
In this guide, we explore creative variations on the espresso martini mix. Whether you’re using a “just add vodka” base or building from scratch, there’s a world of flavor to explore—from liqueur swaps and dairy-free twists to historical riffs and new-school innovations.
The Classic Espresso Martini: A Timeless Favorite
Before we experiment, let’s start with the basics.
The espresso martini emerged in the 1980s, when British bartender Dick Bradsell famously created it for a customer who wanted a drink that would “wake me up, then f*** me up.” It quickly became a nightlife staple—combining coffee, vodka, and a touch of sweetness in one sleek glass.
The standard recipe includes:
- Vodka
- Freshly brewed espresso
- Coffee liqueur (often Kahlúa or Tia Maria)
- Simple syrup (optional)
It’s typically shaken with ice and strained into a coupe or martini glass, garnished with three coffee beans to symbolize health, wealth, and happiness.
At OROMA®, we took that blueprint and reimagined it. We use real 100% Arabica espresso —sourced from Brazil’s lush rainforests—and pair it with ultra-premium vodka from the American Midwest. Then we nitrogen-infuse every can to create that creamy, café-style head without the need for shaking like a bartender in a nightclub. No dairy. No preservatives. Just bold flavor, pure ingredients, and effortless style.
Still, the classic recipe is just the beginning. The espresso martini is versatile—and that’s where the fun starts.
The Role of Quality Espresso in Martini Mixes
Coffee is the soul of the espresso martini. And not all espresso is created equal.
Freshly brewed espresso contains essential oils and aromatic compounds that instant coffee or artificial flavors just can’t replicate. These oils give the drink its body, aroma, and complexity.
The origin and roast profile of your beans also matter. Lighter roasts offer brighter, more acidic notes, while darker roasts bring boldness, chocolate, and smokiness. If you’re using a cold brew or espresso concentrate at home, opt for single-origin beans when possible.
OROMA® uses specialty-grade Arabica beans roasted and brewed specifically for balance. It’s not just caffeine—it’s a curated coffee experience.
Essential Ingredients of a Traditional Espresso Martini
To make a great espresso martini, each component has to pull its weight. Here’s what you’ll need if you're crafting from scratch:
- Vodka: The base spirit should be clean and smooth. Avoid harsh, bottom-shelf options. A neutral vodka lets the espresso shine, while flavored vodkas can add depth.
- Espresso: Freshly pulled or brewed and cooled. Avoid sweetened coffee drinks—they’ll muddy the flavor.
- Coffee Liqueur: Adds sweetness and complexity. Kahlúa and Tia Maria are the classics, but craft and homemade versions exist too.
- Simple Syrup: Optional, but helps balance bitterness. A 1:1 sugar-to-water ratio works well.
OROMA® simplifies this by mixing all these ingredients (except the shaking) into one can—balanced, bold, and consistent every time.
Pre-Made Espresso Martini Mixes: Convenience Meets Craft
Let’s face it: not everyone wants to measure, brew, and shake. That’s why pre-made espresso martini mixes have surged in popularity—and why OROMA® exists.
The appeal is simple:
- No tools required
- Zero prep time
- Consistent flavor
- Easily portable (picnic, beach, rooftop, you name it)
Many mixes ask you to “just add vodka,” which is great for flexibility. But OROMA® goes a step further—offering a ready-to-drink format that’s already perfected, so you can skip both the measuring and the mess.
Still, whether you're mixing manually or cracking a can, there are ways to customize the flavor to match your vibe.
Selecting the Perfect Vodka for Your Espresso Martini
Vodka might seem like a blank canvas, but it influences the drink more than you’d expect. For espresso martinis, opt for:
- Neutral vodkas: Clean, crisp, and unobtrusive. Think Tito’s, Absolut Elyx, or Grey Goose.
- Flavored vodkas: Try vanilla or orange vodka to accent specific notes in the coffee or liqueur.
- Bold vodkas: Some premium vodkas have a peppery finish or mineral notes, which can add complexity.
OROMA® uses ultra-premium vodka that’s purposefully smooth—designed to elevate the espresso, not compete with it.
Coffee Liqueur: The Sweet Backbone
Coffee liqueur provides the richness that bridges the vodka and espresso. Its sweetness tames bitterness and adds depth.
Classic options:
- Kahlúa: Sweet, with notes of vanilla and caramel.
-
Tia Maria: A touch more robust, with a drier finish.
Craft alternatives or homemade versions can include different roasts or even infusions like cardamom, cacao, or coconut.
OROMA® takes a balanced approach: real espresso flavor leads, but it’s supported by subtle notes of chocolate and vanilla—without being sugary.
Creative Coffee Choices: Flavor Variations Worth Trying
Want to play barista-mixologist? Here are some espresso alternatives to explore:
- Cold Brew: Lower acidity, smoother profile. Works well in summer versions or lighter cocktails.
- Flavored Espresso: Try hazelnut, cinnamon, or mocha espresso pods for a twist.
- Single-Origin Espresso: Each region brings its own taste. Ethiopian beans? Floral. Colombian? Balanced.
- Espresso + Citrus: Add a splash of orange espresso to highlight brightness (especially good in a Carajillo-style riff).
The coffee base is where the personality of your martini begins.
Sweetening the Deal: Alternative Sweeteners
If you’re customizing your own mix or adjusting a base like OROA®, try:
- Agave nectar: Smooth and less cloying than simple syrup
- Maple syrup: Earthy and deep—great for fall flavors
- Honey: Delicate and floral
- Brown sugar syrup: Adds molasses warmth
OROMA® features only 10g of naturally occurring sugar per can, making it ideal for those who prefer moderation—but still want balance.
Liqueur & Spirit Swaps: Elevating the Classic
Vodka is the tradition, but not a rule. Swap it for:
- Rum: Adds caramel and molasses undertones
- Bourbon: Brings smoke and spice
- Amaretto: Nutty sweetness—great for dessert vibes
- Irish Cream: Makes it rich, indulgent, and creamy
- Añejo Tequila: Smoky, elegant, and unexpected
Each variation creates a new personality. The key is balance—don’t overpower the espresso.
Spice It Up: Add Warmth and Depth
Spices can create seasonal or aromatic riffs
- Cinnamon: Especially great with vanilla or orange notes (try with OROMA® Carajillo)
- Nutmeg: Subtle and earthy, adds complexity
- Clove: Just a pinch for warmth
- Vanilla Bean: Softens the espresso and elevates the sweetness naturally
Pro tip: Infuse your simple syrup with spices to build in complexity without extra steps.
Creamy Textures: Non-Dairy Milk Variations
Looking for something smoother? Try adding a splash of non-dairy milk:
- Oat Milk: Rich and naturally sweet—ideal for frothing
- Almond Milk: Light and nutty
- Coconut Milk: Tropical, with a velvety mouthfeel
- Cashew Milk: Extra creamy without overpowering
These pair well with both OROMA® Espresso Martini and Carajillo. Just shake, pour, and add milk for a custom experience.
Carajillo: The Espresso Martini’s Bold Cousin
Let’s not forget the other half of the OROMA® duo.
The Carajillo originated in Spain—traditionally a mix of espresso and brandy, later evolving in Mexico to use Licor 43. It’s fiery, aromatic, and full of character.
OROMA® Carajillo takes inspiration from both roots, layering flavors of chocolate, cinnamon, orange, and vanilla into a bold, slightly spicy coffee cocktail. It’s less creamy, more adventurous.
When should you choose Carajillo ver the classic?
- Want a bolder, spiced profile
- Prefer citrus and heat over sweetness
- Need a fresh alternative to the typical martini vibe
OROMA® offers both. Different nights. Different moods.
Just Add Vodka? Or Just Crack the Can?
“Just add vodka” mixes are great in theory—but often require extra tweaking. Too sweet? Too bitter? Too weak?
OROMA® eliminates that uncertainty. Each can is bar-calibrated: smooth vodka, rich espresso, subtle liqueur, perfect texture. No adjustments needed.
Just chill, shake hard, pour over ice, and serve.
DIY Espresso Martini Mix: For the Home Bartender
Want to create your own base mix at home? Here’s your starter kit:
- Espresso (freshly brewed)
- Simple syrup or sweetener of choice
- Coffee liqueur (classic or custom)
- Vodka of choice
- Optional: bitters, citrus peel, flavored extracts
Mix in batch and store in the fridge. Shake before serving.
It’s fun—but be warned: once you try OROMA®, you may never go back to measuring.
Garnishing Your Espresso Martini: The Final Touch
Presentation matters. Garnishes add both flair and flavor.
- Three coffee beans: The classic symbolism
- Chocolate shavings: Rich and indulgent
- Cinnamon stick: Especially nice with Carajillo
- Orange twist: Brightens and balances
- Edible gold dust (yes, really): Because why not?
Pair with a chilled glass and a confident pour.
Final Word: Elevating Your Espresso Martini Experience
There’s no wrong way to enjoy an espresso martini. Whether you're pouring from an OROMA® can or crafting from scratch, the key is balance—between bitter and sweet, strong and smooth, bold and indulgent.
Want something creamy and mellow? Add oat milk.
Looking for spice? Reach for Carajillo.
Need a nightcap without the hassle? Crack open OROMA® and let it do the work.
It’s a cocktail that invites creativity, celebrates flavor, and never goes out of style.
Cheers to bold pours and elevated nights — the OROMA® way.
