Vanilla Espresso Martini Recipe

Tis’ the season for celebratory ‘cheers-ing’ and what better cocktail to evoke festive holiday spirits than with a delicious Vanilla Espresso Martini? So, you may have heard, but espresso martinis are becoming a major hit this holiday season and for good reason. They are rich, decadent and simply put – delicious.  

There’s nothing better than celebrating the holiday season with a yummy and cozy cocktail in hand - whether it’s an all-out Christmas soirée or on the couch watching your favorite movie, this Vanilla Espresso Martini really does the trick!  

A Few Key Ingredients:  

• Vanilla Honey – a must-have addition and simple to make 

• Kahlúa - rich and creamy and oh-so-delicious  

• Espresso - we recommend freshly brewed but instant works just as well!  

What makes this recipe go above and beyond is the addition of the honey vanilla syrup. Now, don’t let this intimidate you! This syrup is by far the easiest to make and worth the extra effort (trust us). All you have to do is simmer honey and vanilla extract on the stove just until the flavors combine.

Once this is complete, all that’s left is to combine all the ingredients and shake well (like really well) and you’ll end up with a frothy and delicious nightcap like no other.  

Serve it in Style 

Choose a Festive Glass 
A martini glass is a an obvious choice, but a classic coupe glass would also be a great serving option to mix it up a bit.  
 
Add an Interesting Garnish  
The recipe recommends topping with espresso beans, but another option is to throw in a cinnamon stick for a festive addition.  
 
Serve Alongside an Upscale Napkin  
Instantly elevate the holiday spirit with a festive cocktail napkin to pair with this delicious treat! 

Vanilla Espresso Martini  

Serves 1  

Ingredients 

Vanilla Honey 

• ¼ cup honey 
• 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract) 
• vanilla sugar, for rim (optional) 

Vanilla Sugar 

• ¼ cup granulated sugar 
• ½ teaspoon vanilla bean powder or ½  a vanilla bean, seeds scraped.  

• 1 ½ ounces (3 tablespoons) vodka 
• 1 ½ ounces (3 tablespoons) Kahlúa 
• 1 ounce espresso 

To make the vanilla honey syrup. In a medium pot, bring ¼ cup water, the honey, and vanilla to a boil over high heat. Boil 2-3 minutes, then remove from the heat. Let cool. This syrup makes enough for about 6 drinks. If desired, rim your glass with *vanilla sugar. 
 
In a cocktail shaker, combine 2-3 teaspoons honey syrup, vodka, Kahlua, and espresso. Add ice and shake vigorously for 1 minute. Strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a couple of coffee beans, if desired.  
 
*Vanilla Sugar: Mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean powder or 1/2 a vanilla bean, seeds scraped. 

Recipe Courtesy of Half Baked Harvest  

Serve It Up

	Say "cheers" in festive holiday spirit thanks to the Gold Stars Cocktail Napkins.
Serve this delicious cocktail on a Deco Gold Scallop Platter at your next holiday soirée.