Cozy fall vibes meet the trendy cocktail scene with this flavorful Pumpkin Espresso Martini.
Nothing marks the end of summer like the pumpkin craze that takes over every September. While pumpkin patches and pie may kick up feelings of nostalgia from childhood, this trend of pumpkin everything has completely exploded in the last twenty years. From the PSL (pumpkin spice latte) to the robust Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned, and on to the head-scratching Pumpkin Spice Spam, pumpkin has found its way into all aspects of cocktails and cuisine. It’s about time we had a Pumpkin Espresso Martini!
While the original Espresso Martini was born in the 1980s (like all great things, #me) we have seen a major reappearance of this buzzy cocktail in recent years. The vodka-based, coffee-flavored drink was praised on the top 10 list of cocktails served in bars and restaurants last year and one popular news source even dubbed 2022 “The Year of The Espresso Martini.” So, this union of pumpkin and the Espresso Martini is the love story we’ve all been waiting for, right next to Taylor and Travis.
The Pumpkin Espresso Martini is unforgettable. It is such a distinct, seasonal drink that you will look forward to it all year long. I recently had my girlfriends visit from Manhattan to do fun fall things. We checked all the boxes: apple picking, decorating pumpkins, baking, and taking cute pics wearing flannels. The Pumpkin Espresso Martini fits in with fun fall occasions like this, just as much as the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg would. This cocktail is truly tasty and easy to make. Throw all the ingredients in a shaker, shake, and pour.
Don’t Have An Espresso Maker?
One of the biggest challenges we face with the Pumpkin Espresso Martini (and the reason bartenders may roll their eyes) is that it contains real espresso. Espresso is essential in any ESPRESSO Martini, but making it can be time-consuming. Maybe that is part of the appeal. Also, an espresso maker is a staple in most restaurants, however not in people’s homes. How do we overcome this? With a little awesome cheat I sometimes use… cold brew! While espresso and cold brew have significant differences, the swap works well in this recipe, especially because you have to chill the espresso. You can make your own or purchase one of the several brands available in stores. Some even make espresso cold brew!
What is the Best Alcohol to Use to Make a Pumpkin Espresso Martini?
For my Pumpkin Espresso Martini, I used Ketel One Vodka. We often use high-end vodka for martinis, but this one is mixed with strong flavors, so the quality of the vodka is not as significant. However, don’t use anything cheap, because that taste may come through, or worse, leave you with a horrible headache. For the coffee liqueur, I used good old Kahlúa. It is a good staple for your home bar, and you don’t use too much of it in this recipe so it will last a while.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce coffee liqueur
- 1 ounce espresso cooled
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin purée
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- More pumpkin pie spice or coffee beans to garnish
Instructions
- Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, and a handful of ice cubes to a cocktail shaker.
- Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-30 seconds until the mixture is well chilled and mixed.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass. Optionally, you can garnish with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or 3 coffee beans, for good luck.
Nutrition
What glassware and garnish are used?
The Pumpkin Espresso Martini is served in a chilled martini glass and can be garnished with a couple of espresso beans or cinnamon sticks.
Can I use hot coffee in place of the espresso?
You can use coffee instead of espresso but chill it first. Nobody wants a hot martini. While it won’t taste the exact same, it is close enough.
Pumpkin Espresso Martini Variations
What I love about this Pumpkin Espresso Martini is that it is super easy to make into a mocktail. I mixed the chilled espresso, pumpkin purée, and pumpkin pie spice without the alcohol and loved the outcome. For other Espresso Martini variations take a look at these other recipes from Twist and Toast:
- Espresso Martini – The 1980s original, born in the lively Soho district of London.
- Baileys Espresso Martini – A creamier variation, thanks to the addition of Irish cream liqueur.
- Tequila Espresso Martini – This one comes with a Latino twist, with peppery blanco tequila taking the place of the vodka.
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