Eggnog Espresso Martini
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This Eggnog Espresso Martini blends two holiday favorites into one smooth festive drink. You get creamy eggnog, bold coffee, and a hint of nutmeg to take this holiday version of the classic espresso martini over the top. This holiday drink may become your new holiday tradition.
This festive homemade holiday cocktail works because it keeps things simple and balanced. The espresso cuts through the richness so it never tastes too sweet. A splash of almond liqueur adds cozy warmth. Every sip feels smooth, balanced, and a little indulgent.
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Heather’s Notes
- This drink works as dessert or after dinner cocktail.
- Fresh espresso adds structure and depth.
- Eggnog delivers creamy texture and body without heavy cream.
- Almond liqueur softens the coffee edge and gives it a slight nutty flavor.
- Presentation looks polished with minimal effort for a festive holiday happy hour.
Ingredients
- Eggnog – gives the martini its creamy base. It adds spice, sweetness, and body. Store bought or homemade both work well. A thicker eggnog creates a richer mouthfeel.
- Espresso or strong coffee – provides bitterness and aroma. Strong brewed coffee also works if chilled. Coffee balances the sweetness from eggnog and liqueurs.
- Vodka – keeps the cocktail clean and neutral. It supports the other flavors without adding burn. Choose a smooth vodka for best results.
- Coffee liqueur – reinforces the espresso notes. It adds sweetness and depth. This ingredient ties the drink together.
- Almond liqueur – adds warmth and subtle nuttiness and pairs well with nutmeg and coffee. A small amount shifts the flavor profile. This is an optional ingredient.
- Ice Cubes – chills and dilutes the cocktail. Proper dilution smooths the alcohol. Use fresh ice for clean flavor.
- Garnishes: fresh ground nutmeg, three whole coffee beans – nutmeg adds aroma before the first sip. Espresso beans signal the espresso flavor.
Subs & Variations
- Swap vodka for dark rum for a warmer profile.
- Use bourbon for oak notes.
- Replace almond liqueur with hazelnut liqueur for a deeper nut flavor.
- Try vanilla vodka or vanilla extract for added sweetness.
- Use decaf espresso for a low caffeine option.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick for extra spice.
Find the full printable recipe card with exact measurements and step-by-step instructions below.
How to Make an Eggnog Espresso Martini
- Chill martini glasses in the freezer.
- Brew espresso or strong coffee. Let it cool fully.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add eggnog, espresso, 1 1/2 oz of vodka, coffee liqueur, and almond liqueur.
- Seal and shake hard for fifteen to twenty seconds. Strain into the chilled glass.
- Add a sprinkle of nutmeg over the top. Float three coffee beans in the center. Serve immediately.
Tips for Storing
- Store leftover espresso in the fridge for up to two days.
- Keep eggnog sealed and cold at all times.
- Do not pre mix with ice.
- Shake only before serving.
- Discard any cocktail left at room temperature.
Recipe FAQs
The espresso balances the sweetness. The result tastes smooth and structured.
Full fat eggnog delivers the best texture. Lighter versions will be thinner. Use homemade eggnog for the best results.
Strong brewed coffee works just as well. Chill it before mixing.
Shake hard with plenty of ice. Use a tight seal on the shaker.
Yes, mix the liquid ingredients ahead. Shake with ice right before sering.
More Holiday Cocktail Recipes
- Pumpkin Pie Martini
- S’mores Martini
- Apple Cider Margarita
- Berry Tom Collins
- Kahlua & Coke
- Kahlua Hot Cocoa
Eggnog Espresso Martini
Ingredients
- 2 oz eggnog, store-bought or homemade
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1 oz espresso, or strong coffee, room temperature
- 1 oz coffee liqueur, such as Kahlua
- 1 tsp almond liqueur, such as Amaretto
- ice
- ground nutmeg
- 3 whole coffee beans
Instructions
- Chill martini glasses in the freezer.
- Brew espresso or strong coffee. Let it cool fully.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add eggnog, espresso, 1 1/2 oz of vodka, coffee liqueur, and almond liqueur.
- Seal and shake hard for fifteen to twenty seconds. Strain into the chilled glass.
- Add a sprinkle of nutmeg over the top. Float three coffee beans in the center. Serve immediately.
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Notes
Nutrition
* Nutritional information is not guaranteed to be accurate.
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Co-Founder at Spiceology | More About Heather…
Heather is a recipe developer and content creator living in Vancouver, Washington. She started Farmgirl Gourmet in 2006, almost 20 years ago, as a way to share recipes with friends and family. Heather is also the co-founder of Spiceology , a unique spice company, which she started in 2013. She shares family friendly recipes for easy everyday meals with a gourmet twist.
YUM