How to Make a Coffee Martini (Coffee Tini)

If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your espresso into a sophisticated cocktail without losing its bold coffee character, the coffee tini—or coffee martini—is your answer. Inspired by the iconic Martini, this coffee cocktail blends strong espresso with vodka and cocoa liqueur for a drink that’s both boozy and bracing. It’s a favorite among coffee lovers who want something stronger than a latte but just as flavorful.

To make a classic coffee tini, combine 45ml vodka, 45ml freshly brewed iced espresso, and 30ml cocoa liqueur in a shaker with ice, shake 15 times, then strain into a chilled glass. For extra texture, top with a small amount of milk foam.

What Is a Coffee Tini?

The coffee tini is a creative cocktail that draws inspiration from the famous Martini. Instead of gin, it uses vodka—chosen for its clean taste and compatibility with iced espresso. Unlike sweet coffee liqueurs dominating many coffee cocktails, this one balances coffee bitterness with cocoa richness and the neutrality of vodka. It’s designed to be bold yet smooth, making it approachable for coffee and cocktail fans alike.

Why Vodka Works Best With Iced Espresso

Among China’s six main types of distilled spirits—gin, vodka, rum, tequila, whiskey, and brandy—vodka is the most globally accepted pairing for iced espresso. Its neutral profile doesn’t clash with coffee’s acidity, especially when you use an espresso with slightly acidic notes. Be careful with your espresso extraction: too high a temperature can bring out burnt flavors, which vodka will amplify. Stick to proper brew temps to let the coffee shine through the alcohol.

Coffee Tini Recipe & Method

Making a coffee tini is simple but requires precision. The key is using quality ingredients and shaking hard enough to integrate the flavors without melting the ice too much.

• 45ml vodka
• 45ml iced espresso (preferably freshly pulled and chilled)
• 30ml cocoa liqueur (adjust sweetness with sugar syrup or flavoring if desired)

Steps:

• Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
• Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds (roughly 15 shakes).
• Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
• (Optional) For a creamier mouthfeel, top with a small dollop of milk foam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use hot espresso in a coffee tini?

No, it’s best to use iced or chilled espresso. Hot espresso can melt the ice too quickly, diluting the drink and affecting the balance between coffee, vodka, and cocoa liqueur. Cold espresso keeps the drink crisp and the texture right.

What kind of vodka should I use for a coffee tini?

Use a clean, neutral vodka without strong flavors or additives. Since vodka is the base spirit, its quality impacts the drink’s smoothness. Avoid flavored vodkas unless you’re experimenting with variations.

Can I adjust the sweetness in a coffee tini?

Yes. The cocoa liqueur can be adjusted to taste. If it’s too bitter or too sweet for your preference, you can add a few drops of sugar syrup or other flavored syrups to customize the sweetness and aroma.

Do I need to use milk foam on top?

No, it’s optional. Milk foam adds a creamy texture and slightly softens the cocktail’s edge. If you prefer a lighter or more classic Martini-style finish, skip the foam.

What’s the best espresso for a coffee tini?

Use an espresso with balanced acidity—slightly bright but not overly sour or bitter. Avoid over-extracted or scorched espresso, as the vodka will enhance any undesirable flavors. A well-balanced, medium roast works well.

Recommended FrontStreet Blends for Coffee Cocktails

For making coffee cocktails like the coffee tini, FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend offers a smooth, well-rounded espresso with rich crema—perfect for balancing the vodka and cocoa notes. If you're looking for deeper chocolate tones, their Black Cocoa Blend delivers bold, affordable flavor with strong cocoa characteristics, ideal for cocktails. Both blends are designed for espresso-based drinks and perform well when chilled or used in mixed drinks. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.