An image of an espresso martini cocktail.

How to Make the Ultimate Espresso Martini with Cornish Coffee

Shake up something special with our Cornish Coffee Espresso Martini. Bold, smooth and unmistakably Cornish - it’s the perfect mix of kick and class. Grab your Wreckers Roast, a splash of local spirit, and let the cocktail magic begin.

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There’s coffee… and then there’s coffee with a kick.

If you’re looking to impress mates, elevate your after-dinner drinks, or just bring a bit of bar magic into your own kitchen, the Espresso Martini is a solid shout. Smooth, strong, and unapologetically classy.

And when you brew it with Cornish Coffee, you know you’re starting with the good stuff.

Here’s how to shake up the ultimate espresso martini – Cornish-style.

GRAB YOUR (CORNISH) INGREDIENTS

Before you start shaking, make sure you’ve got the good stuff. This isn’t just any espresso martini - it’s Cornish through and through. Grab some Cornish Coffee (freshly ground Wreckers Roast is best), and check your local shops for some Cornish spirits - we do love a drink down here. Whether it’s a smooth local vodka or a cheeky Cornish rum, you’re in for a proper treat.

What You’ll Need:

  • Freshly brewed Cornish Coffee espresso (30ml - a double shot of our Wreckers Roast works best!)

  • Vodka (25ml) - or swap it with Cornish Rum!

  • Coffee liqueur – like Kahlúa or Tia Maria (25ml)

  • Sugar syrup (optional, 10ml if you like it sweeter)

  • Ice (a decent handful)

  • Cocktail shaker

  • Strainer

  • Three coffee beans to garnish (for luck/tradition)

How to Make the Ultimate Espresso Martini

Right then - ingredients prepped, glass chilled, and spirits at the ready? Time to work a little mixology magic. You don’t need to be a pro bartender - just follow these steps and you’ll be shaking like a seaside cocktail wizard in no time.

Method to the Magic

  1. Brew your espresso

    Start strong. Pull a double shot of Cornish Coffee – we recommend our Wreckers Roast espresso beans for deep flavour with a smooth finish. Let it cool slightly (you don’t want to melt the ice too fast when shaking).

  2. Load up your shaker

    Add the espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup if using. Don't forget to chuck in plenty of ice!

  3. Shake it like you mean it

    Give it a vigorous shake for 15–20 seconds. You want it icy cold and velvety smooth.

  4. Strain and serve

    Double strain into a chilled martini glass. This keeps it crisp and clean - no rogue ice chips allowed.

  5. Top it off

    Float three coffee beans on top. Legend says they stand for health, wealth and happiness.

Pro Tips from the Cornish Crew

  • Chill your glass in the freezer beforehand for a professional touch.

  • Try swapping vodka for dark rum for a proper Cornish twist.

  • Hosting? Make a batch of espresso in advance and chill it so you can serve a crowd without faff.

A proper Espresso Martini starts with proper coffee. Ours is roasted with care right here in Cornwall - bold, smooth and packed with character. Whether you’re behind a bar or mixing at home, Cornish Coffee makes all the difference.

Tag us in your creations on Instagram @cornishteaandcoffee - we’d love to see your shake!