There is something about an espresso martini that feels just right for October.
It is a little richer than a summer cocktail, a little more indulgent, and perfect for that point in the year when evenings start getting cooler and we naturally begin reaching for warmer flavors.
For this month’s Baylen Lane Drink of the Month, we wanted an espresso martini that still felt classic—but not overly dark or bitter.
So we softened it with Baileys Irish Cream, creating the lighter caramel-colored cocktail you often see served in restaurants, with a thick frothy top and the traditional three coffee beans.
The result is smooth, creamy, coffee-forward, and surprisingly easy to make at home.
The Baylen Lane Espresso Martini
Ingredients
- 1½ oz vodka
- 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1 oz freshly brewed espresso, cooled slightly
- ½ oz coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa
- Ice
- 3 coffee beans, for garnish
How to Make It
First, brew the espresso and allow it to cool slightly.
Fill a cocktail shaker generously with ice.
Add the vodka, Baileys, espresso, and coffee liqueur.
Then comes the important part:
Shake it hard.
Give the cocktail a vigorous shake for approximately 15–20 seconds. That strong shake is what helps create the thick, creamy foam on top.
Double-strain the drink into a chilled martini glass.
Finish with three coffee beans placed gently on the foam.
And that is it.
Why This Version Is Lighter
A traditional espresso martini usually relies on vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sometimes simple syrup.
Our version replaces that sweeter syrup element with Baileys Irish Cream.
The Baileys softens the bitterness of the espresso and gives the cocktail its warmer tan or caramel color.
It also makes this version especially approachable if you like coffee cocktails but find a traditional espresso martini a little too strong or bitter.
The Secret to That Beautiful Frothy Top
The foam may look complicated, but it really comes down to technique.
Use freshly brewed espresso whenever possible.
Fresh espresso naturally contains oils and tiny bubbles that help create that signature foam.
Then shake the cocktail much harder than you think you need to.
A gentle shake will chill the drink.
A vigorous shake creates the texture.
We recommend at least 15–20 seconds with plenty of ice.
And if you want that smooth restaurant-style finish, double-strain the cocktail as you pour it into the glass.
Why Three Coffee Beans?
The three-bean garnish has become part of the classic espresso martini presentation.
Aside from looking beautiful against the pale foam, it gives the cocktail that instantly recognizable finishing touch.
Place the beans near the center of the glass rather than scattering them across the surface.
Simple is better here.
Make It for a Dinner Party
This cocktail is particularly good for entertaining because it can take the place of both a traditional after-dinner drink and that final cup of coffee.
Serve it after dinner with:
- Chocolate truffles
- Biscotti
- Tiramisu
- Chocolate-covered espresso beans
- A simple cheese and dessert board
Just remember that espresso martinis are best shaken individually or in very small batches. The foam is at its best immediately after shaking.
A Few Easy Tips
Chill the glass first.
Place your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes before making the cocktail.
Let the espresso cool slightly.
It does not need to be completely cold, but pouring piping-hot espresso directly over ice can dilute the drink quickly.
Use plenty of ice.
A full shaker chills the drink faster and helps create better texture.
Shake harder than usual.
This is the cocktail where enthusiasm pays off.
Serve immediately.
The foam is prettiest right after pouring.
The Baylen Lane Take
Some cocktails feel tied to one season.
The espresso martini is a little different.
It works year-round, but there is something about that combination of coffee, cream, and a chilled martini glass that feels especially good as we move into fall.
And while we love the drama of a traditional dark espresso martini, this lighter Baileys version feels a little softer, a little more indulgent, and very easy to recreate at home.
For October, we think it is exactly right.
October Espresso Martini Recipe
1½ oz vodka
1 oz Baileys Irish Cream
1 oz freshly brewed espresso, cooled slightly
½ oz Kahlúa or other coffee liqueur
Ice
3 coffee beans
Shake very hard with ice for 15–20 seconds, double-strain into a chilled martini glass, and garnish with three coffee beans.
Cheers to October.
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