Easy Espresso Martini cocktails

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Christmas is very nearly here and I’m definitely ready for a break. I’m looking forward to a couple of weeks away from my computer screen, and to spending precious time with family and friends. But, before I put my feet up and relax, I want to share one last bit of festive inspiration: a quick and easy cocktail recipe that’s ideal for Christmas and New Year gatherings.

Cocktails always make celebrations feel that little bit extra special, and one of my all-time favourites is an Espresso Martini. Not only is it delicious, it’s also a doddle to whip up – as this simple step-by-step shows. It comes courtesy of The White Company, who sent me their Espresso Martini glass and candle gift set (£36) to try out, and it’s perfect for simple yet sophisticated festive entertaining. What’s more, it doesn’t include any unusual ingredients that might be difficult to track down this close to Christmas. So, dust off that cocktail shaker and enjoy… Cheers!

Ingredients (makes two cocktails)

• 100ml of vodka
• 50ml of coffee liqueur (e.g. Kahlua)
• 50ml of freshly made espresso
• Coffee beans to garnish
• Ice

Method

1. Put two cocktail glasses in the fridge to chill.
2. Make the espresso and set it to one side to cool.
3. Pour the vodka, coffee liqueur and espresso into a cocktail shaker, along with a handful of ice.
4. Shake until the outside of the cocktail shaker feels ice-cold to touch.
5. Strain into the chilled glasses and garnish with a few coffee beans.

If you want to make your martinis slightly sweeter, make a syrup from 100g of caster sugar dissolved in 50ml of boiling water, leave it to cool, and add it to the shaker along with the other ingredients.

I’ll be back in January with more inspiration for simple, relaxed living at home and beyond, but in the meantime have a wonderful Christmas and New Year. And thank you for reading and supporting my blog in 2019 – every visit, like, comment and share really means a lot.

See you in 2020!

P.S. If you need any more last-minute ideas for festive drinks, take a look at my winter gin cocktail recipes.

All photography by Abi Dare