Espresso martini is trending, but here are 5 twists you probably haven't tried (plus a bonus Easter one!)

When a classic espresso martini just won't do, look no further with these genius recipe spin-offs.

Affogato espresso martini

There’s no better cocktail for a special occasion than an espresso martini. A sophisticated cocktail that makes you look like you “know your stuff” while keeping you caffeinated. 

The espresso martini was invented in London in the 80s by bartender Dick Bradsell when someone came up to him and asked for a drink that would “wake them up and get them tipsy” (note: we’ve worded this in a much more appropriate way). Now the drink is enjoyed globally, and in an age when most would choose a cocktail over a beer, the espresso martini is more popular than ever.

How do you make an espresso martini?

This cocktail’s classic recipe comprises vodka, sugar and espresso – shaken not stirred to get that signature foam. But here at taste, we love to SHAKE things up: so here are five espresso martini spin-offs that Aussies will be making this party season.

Espresso martini affogato

In terms of alcoholic espresso-based desserts nothing beats the simplicity of an affogato. However, if you want something a little extra special, our affogato espresso martini is the perfect dessert to wow your guests. This version is simply a classic espresso martini poured over a scoop of ice-cream – basically, the best of both worlds. 

Caramilk espresso martini

If you’re not much of a coffee drinker and find the OG martini quite bitter then this Caramilk espresso martini will be right up your alley. Caramilk adds a wonderfully creamy and rich texture to this classic, taking our Caramilk and espresso martini obsessions to the next level!

Upside-down espresso martini

You’ll love this cocktail if you’re a fan of the creamy foam on an espresso martini. This cocktail features a creamy base of milk, vodka and Baileys. Then, it’s topped with a coffee whip made from coffee granules, caster sugar and boiling water – seriously delicious (and ALMOST too pretty to drink).

Milkybar espresso martini

Milkybar lovers this one’s for you. We took Nescafe’s White Milkybar Mocha and shook it up with espresso, vodka and Kahlua for the ultimate Friday night pick-me-up. To make this cocktail extra indulgent, we served each cocktail with a bar of Milkybar.

Marble espresso martini

Cadbury’s Marble chocolate and an espresso martini are a match made in heaven. Not only does this cocktail taste oh-so-good, but it’s visually stunning too! The cocktail comprises a white chocolate-vodka mixture and a Marble chocolate-espresso mixture that creates a marbled effect when poured into the glass.

Cadbury marble espresso martini

Bonus recipe! Meet the hot cross bun espresso martini

With Easter fast approaching, we can’t stop making this hot cross bun-inspired cocktail. It tastes like a classic espresso martini, only with the spiced flavours of a hot cross bun. Yes, we’re talking about cinnamon – and we’re not sure we’ll ever be able to do espresso martinis without it again.

Originally published as Espresso martini is trending, but here are 5 twists you probably haven't tried (plus a bonus Easter one!)