Spiced Apple Espresso Martini Spiced Apple Espresso Martini

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Fall lattes and apple season are coming together to bring you this spiced apple espresso martini. Rich espresso and a double dose of apple flavor come together to deliver one caffeinated cocktail you'll want to sip all through fall.

A spiced apple espresso martini on a cream-colored plate with apple and fall flowers in the background.

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Ingredient Notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
FAQs
Amanda's Top Tips
Perfect Pairing
Sip on More Apple Cocktails
📖 Recipe

If you love Starbucks' apple-flavored coffee drinks, this one's for you. Every sip is full of the same apple, cinnamon, and espresso flavors, but you don't have to spend your morning waiting in a long line for an overpriced latte.

Unfortunately, this drink isn't available every year, so I thought it was time to make my own version - but with a cocktail twist because that's how we do things around here. To ensure I'm bringing you the perfect apple espresso martini, Matt and I tested a couple side-by-side versions.

First up was the amount of apple syrup. I found a full ounce made for a more apple-forward martini, which was my preference. Matt preferred the version with just ½ ounce of apple for a stronger espresso flavor. We figured 1-ounce version would be the bigger crowd-pleaser, but I noted the other option for those who can't get enough espresso.

For our second test, we tried an apple-infused vodka next to a plain vodka. We were completely aligned here. The plain vodka still makes a great drink, but you definitely get a richer flavor with apple vodka.

Ingredient Notes

Vodka: I highly recommend the apple and cinnamon vodka from Wild Roots. I'm obsessed with all the infused vodkas from this brand.

This vodka steeps with real apples and cinnamon, so you don't have to worry about fake off-flavors. But as noted above, plain vodka works too.

Espresso: Espresso will give you the richest flavor, but you can substitute cold brew in a pinch.

Apple simple syrup: For this, we need water, sugar, apples, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and ground cardamom. If you'd like a more detailed tutorial on making this, you can visit my apple simple syrup post.

Coffee liqueur: I use Kahlua because that's what I usually have on hand, but feel free to use your own favorite brand.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Single Drink

Step 1: For the garnished rim, we pour a little extra syrup on a small plate and mix together cinnamon and brown sugar on a separate plate. Now we dip the rim of the glass into the additional syrup and then swirl in the cinnamon mixture (photo 1). While you could use water, I like the extra apple flavor the syrup adds.

Step 2: We add the espresso, vodka, apple syrup, and coffee liqueur to a cocktail shaker and place it in the freezer to chill the espresso. Now we add plenty of ice, secure the top, and shake vigorously (photo 2).

Step 3: We remove the cocktail shaker top and strain into a chilled glass (photo 3).

Step 4: For a fun touch, we add a few coffee beans to our foamy top, and we're ready to sit back and sip (photo 4).

A four-photo collage showing the process of making the apple espresso martini with numbers by each step.

Batch Preparation

Party planning? Let's make a batch cocktail. While espresso martinis need a fresh shake, we can still make a large base batch ahead of party time for easy entertaining.

We simply stir together the ingredients without ice and store the pitcher covered in the refrigerator for a few hours. When we're ready to serve, we pour two drinks at a time in a cocktail shaker and shake as originally directed. You'll find the full proportions in the notes section of the recipe card.

An apple espresso martini with coffee beans scattered around it and several apples in the background on a wooden surface.

FAQs

Can I use apple cider instead of apple simple syrup?

I do not recommend the substitution. Apple cider isn't as sweet and more tart, so the balance will be off.

How long does the apple syrup last?

The syrup should last about two to four weeks. Once completely cooled, pour it in a sterile, airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. That should give it plenty of shelf life.

Amanda's Top Tips

Chill your glass: Since we're dealing with espresso, I like to ensure a refreshing sip with a chilled glass. To chill the glass, we place it in the freezer for about 10-30 minutes. If you forget, you can fill the glass with cold water and ice while you mix the drink.
Use some force: Getting that frothy topping takes a hard shake. Use two hands and hold the cocktail shaker at angle to get enough force.
Plan ahead: The espresso needs time to chill. Otherwise, it will melt too much ice. I like to plan for 10 minutes in the freezer.

Perfect Pairing

Espresso martinis are a favorite after-dinner drink, so that calls for an apple dessert. Both my apple cupcakes with a praline filling and apple shortcakes match beautifully with the spiced apple syrup.

I also love an espresso martini with brunch. For a perfect sweet breakfast treat, these apple cinnamon rolls with a maple glaze are made for this drink.

Bring a coffee shop and fancy cocktail bar to your kitchen with this spiced apple espresso martini. Every sip celebrates those warm, comforting fall flavors you'll want to savor all season long.

Cheers!

A close-up overhead shot of an apple espresso martini with three coffee beans placed on the drink's foam with fall flowers behind it.

Sip on More Apple Cocktails

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Spiced Apple Espresso Martini