Espresso Martini

Ingredients

• 1¾ ozVodka, a clean, neutral bottle works best
• 1 ozFresh espresso, hot, pulled within the last two minutes
• ½ ozCoffee liqueur, Mr Black or Kahlúa
• ¼ ozSimple syrup, 1:1, optional, depending on the espresso
• —Three coffee beans, to garnish

Method

1. Chill a coupe or martini glass in the freezer.

2. Pull a fresh single shot of espresso. Hot espresso is non-negotiable — it is what creates the foam.

3. Combine vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and syrup in a shaker filled three-quarters with cubed ice.

4. Shake hard for 12 to 15 seconds — long enough to chill the hot coffee and whip a tight crema across the top.

5. Double-strain into the chilled glass. The pour should land with a thick, even cap of foam.

6. Float three coffee beans on the foam. Drink while the crema is still standing.