Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini Recipe

It's that time of year again... grab your sweater, boots, and fall espresso martini. Autumn has officially arrived! While jumping in piles of leaves is always fun, beverages have got to be one of the season's best treats. From warm cider to iced pumpkin spice latte, there are tons of flavors to choose from.

But, what about those who want something boozy? A pumpkin spice espresso martini is perfect for a night out with friends or just staying in and relaxing by the fire. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also delicious and packs a punch. We'll share our favorite recipe in this article.

What You Need for the Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini Recipe

Pumpkin Espresso Martini Ingredients

Ready to make a show-stopping pumpkin espresso martini? Great. The first thing you'll need to do is gather ingredients. Our recipe specifically calls for the following.

• 1 US fluid ounce (30 mL) of cold espresso coffee
• ½ US fluid ounces (44 mL) of vodka - vanilla is preferable
• ½ fluid ounce of coffee liqueur
• 1 fluid ounce of coconut milk
• 2⁄3 US fluid ounce (20 mL) of pumpkin spice syrup
• Ice
• Cinnamon sticks
• Fresh ginger

Don't forget the garnish! People often like to top their espresso martinis in different ways - everything from coffee beans to cinnamon powder to chocolate shavings is acceptable. In the spirit of the season, we'd recommend setting aside some extra pumpkin spice or whipped cream for the end.

Alternative Ingredients for Pumpkin Espresso Martini

Of course, there's no right or wrong way to make a pumpkin espresso martini. The ingredients we listed above can be easily exchanged for others based on your specific preferences.
Take a look at these substitutes:

• Vanilla Vodka - Regular Vodka
  Regular vodka supplements vanilla vodka just fine, albeit with less of a sweet edge.
• Espresso - Nitro Cold Brew or Iced Coffee
  If you don't have espresso on hand, any nitro cold brew will do in its place. You can also try ice coffee, although it will likely make the final product taste less potent.
• Coffee Liqueur - Any Coffee Liqueur
  If you can't find the same coffee liqueur that we used, feel free to swap it out for a different brand or type.
• Cinnamon Sticks & Fresh Ginger - Ground Cinnamon & Ground Ginger (adjust to taste)
  Ground cinnamon and ginger may be a little less flavorsome than their fresh counterparts.
• Coconut Milk - Heavy Cream (for non-vegan option)
  A heavy cream, ideally a whipped cream, can be used as a substitute for coconut milk.

What is the Best Alcohol Ratio for the Halloween Espresso Martini?

Just like ingredients, fall espresso martini ratios can also be flexible to your individual taste. The balance of alcohol to espresso can be adjusted to find the flavor you like. For a classic, equal parts martini and espresso make sense but if you prefer it more intense or less alcoholic, adjust your ratio accordingly. Keep in mind that powerful tastes likely won't be as enjoyable in large quantities.

What are the Standards for Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini?

For the purposes of this pumpkin pie espresso martini recipe, we'll be following a basic standard of ingredient portions: 1.5 US fluid ounces (44 mL) of vodka, 1 US fluid ounce (30 mL) of cold espresso coffee, and 2⁄3 US fluid ounce (20 mL) of pumpkin spice syrup. The final product should taste quite like a pumpkin-spiced cocktail, but with the addition of a boost in flavor and energy from the espresso.

How Much Coffee is in Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini?

The average pumpkin spice espresso martini - or at least the recipe we're making today - contains roughly 40mg of caffeine. That's more than enough for most people to feel a jolt, but you're always welcome to take things up a notch; iced espresso shots, cold brew coffee, or freshly ground espresso beans could be added for some extra kick.

Can you use Coffee Instead of Espresso for Pumpkin Espresso Martini?

While your pumpkin spice latte martini can certainly benefit from genuine espresso, swapping it out for a comparable ingredient isn't out of the question. In fact, some people prefer to craft their beverage with cold brew or regular coffee for a faster mixing process. You might even opt out of adding coffee entirely and go with a coffee-flavored liqueur instead.

Bar Tools

Our pumpkin spice espresso martini recipe is simple by nature, meaning you shouldn't need an entire lab of science equipment to make it. But with that being said, any drink can be made better with a few fundamental bar tools. Search your kitchen for a cocktail shaker, cocktail strainer, martini glass, measuring jigger, and a muddler before getting started. BROOD machines are also a great tool for making espresso martinis, capable of pumping out five cups of cocktails in under a minute.

How to Make an Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini

Now that you're familiar with the basic ingredients and substitutes involved, it's time to bring this pumpkin espresso martini recipe to life.
Simply follow these instructions:

1. Brew the Espresso
Begin by brewing espresso in a moka pot or BROOD machine. Most people prefer to mix this drink cold - if you're one of them, refrigerate the espresso after it's brewed.

2. Prepare the Cocktail Shaker
Wash out and fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes.

3. Add Ingredients to the Shaker
Pour in all the core ingredients we went over earlier; 1 US fluid ounce (30 mL) of cold espresso coffee, ½ US fluid ounces (44 mL) of vodka , ½ fluid ounce of coffee liqueur, 1 fluid ounce of coconut milk, 2⁄3 US fluid ounce (20 mL) of pumpkin spice syrup.

4. Shake Well
Give that cocktail shaker a good jive for 10 to 15 seconds. You'll know it's well mixed when condensation forms on the outside of the shaker.

5. Infuse With Nitro
This next step is optional, but highly recommended if you want to make everything worthwhile.
Using a nitro-infusing BROOD machine, pour the prepared martini into a glass and give it one shot of nitrogen. This will add more depth to your drink and make it all the more enjoyable.

6. Garnish and Serve
Garnish the martini with some pumpkin spice, coffee beans, cinnamon syrup, or whatever other toppers you choose. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Can I Make it Non-Alcoholic?

Although it's meant to be a boozy drink, there's no rule saying you can't make your pumpkin spice espresso martini non-alcoholic. Just follow the same basic steps outlined above - brew espresso, fill a shaker with ice, add ingredients, shake, infuse with nitrogen, and serve - but substitute the ½ US fluid ounce (44 mL) of vodka for either cold brewed coffee or an extra shot of espresso. Some people also like to add a little more pumpkin spice syrup for extra flavor.
It's all about replicating the pungency of vodka - whatever that looks or tastes like is up to you!

Espresso vs Without Espresso

The pumpkin spice latte cocktail recipe we're sharing today is caffeinated by design. But that's not to say you have to use a high-octane ingredient like espresso when mixing it. There are plenty of viable alternatives that can be used to add a bit of buzz to your beverage without adding too much bitterness.

For instance, you could use a cold brewed coffee; cold brew is much less acidic than hot-brewed espresso and can lend itself to providing the same flavor without being overbearing. Other options include matcha syrup, yerba mate tea concentrate, or even an energy drink.

Hot vs Cold Pumpkin Espresso Martini

How do you take your pumpkin espresso martini? Because it can go either way. The regular iteration of this beverage is typically served cold, but can also be made warm. Mixing your espresso martini hot will help bring out its coffee notes and create a drink that's more comforting. Ice has somewhat of an opposite effect - it mellows out the espresso's flavor and creates a sweeter, more refreshing cocktail. Going this route will also make the vodka the main flavor component of the cocktail, so if you like a more spirit-forward drink this would be your best option.

Are Pumpkin Espresso Martinis Sweet?

The best answer to this question is that a pumpkin espresso martini is as sweet as you want to make it. Following the parameters of this recipe, you should end up somewhere in the middle. Adding more syrup will make the martini sweeter while reducing or omitting it altogether will give it a bitter taste.

Infuse Nitro in Your Pumpkin Espresso Martini Recipe

Following the ingredient list and instructions we outlined above should set you up for a great pumpkin spice espresso martini. But what if you want to make it even better? Nitro technology is the answer.

Used in everything from regular coffee to cocktails and tea, nitrogen infusion adds a creamy and velvety texture to beverages that can't be replicated by any other means. Our machines are designed to execute the process quickly and seamlessly, allowing you to create the perfect pumpkin spice espresso martini in just a few minutes. Being tankless, BROOD nitro cold brew machines take up little counter space while providing a smooth and delicious martini with every pour. Simply place your drink below the tap, infuse, and sip. It couldn't be any easier.

DRNX

Why settle for a regular pumpkin spice espresso martini when you can enjoy something more enhanced? Our espresso martini machine can take these classic drinks to the next level by way of nitro infusion - all it takes is a brisk tap and the drink is instantly chilled, slightly carbonated, and creamy. DRNX is the foundation of BROOD's catalog, featuring a single output capable of dispensing as many as five cups worth of iced espresso martinis in one minute.

DRNX DUO

DRNX DUO can be thought of as an expanded version of DRNX. It does the same job of infusing nitrogen at just as fast of a speed. The big differentiator is that this specific system comes with not one, but two taps, effectively doubling your pumpkin spice espresso martini-making capacity. High-powered and completely self-contained, it's easy to find space for DRNX DUO on your bar countertop. Its modern look only adds to the appeal - who wouldn't want something that looks so good and works so well?

DRNX BRW

Now for the pinnacle of our nitro cold brew coffee maker collection - DRNX BRW. It's specially designed with the needs of today's busy bartenders in mind, featuring a sleek, stainless steel design that fits seamlessly into any bar or restaurant. Not only is this machine stylish, but it also packs quite a punch when it comes to functionality. The refrigerated internal reservoir chills contents to a crisp 2°C, creating a unique pumpkin spice espresso martini flavor that will have your customers coming back for more.

Pro Tips to Make the Best Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini

Whether you're looking to make a specially-themed Halloween espresso martini or regular pumpkin spice espresso martini with no extra flair, following these best practices along the way can make the final product that much better.

• Prechill Your Glassware
  Use the freezer or fridge to get your glasses cold before pouring in any of the ingredients. This will help keep all of that flavor and sweetness locked in, as well as make for a more enjoyable drinking experience.
• Try Different Garnishes
  Don't be afraid to get creative with garnishes - there are so many options out there. From candy corn to slices of orange or lime, the possibilities are endless.
• Use a Good Shaking Technique
  What's in a shake? To put things lightly, the entire integrity of your drink. It's important to be thorough and go for at least 10-15 seconds, getting some nice "ice cream" on the surface before pouring it into a glass.
• Experiment With Sweetness
  Sweetness is often a personal preference, so it's important to experiment until you get the taste that works for you. Try adding a few drops of simple syrup or some honey into your espresso martini and see how it impacts the flavor.

Use Premixes to Make Perfect Pumpkin Espresso Martini in Minutes

If you're not completely confident in your pumpkin spice espresso martini recipe making skills, we suggest going for the foolproof option - an espresso martini premix. This is basically your favorite espresso martini, minus the fuss. All you need to do is add your own vodka, pumpkin spice, and ice, and you're good to go. Our basic mix is a great addition to DRNX setups and easy to order alongside other BROOD products. There's no easier way to create this cocktail classic and ensure it turns out just right every single time.
There you have it - a simple but oh-so-delicious pumpkin spice espresso martini recipe you can try for yourself at home. Drink-making is always fun, especially when you get to experiment with different flavors and come up with something totally unique.

Wrapping Up

Now it's time to give this pumpkin spice espresso martini a try! Follow the steps right and Starbucks will be out of business in no time.

If you're not feeling the pumpkin theme, why not try our classic espresso martini recipe? Powerful and caffeine-filled, this drink encapsulates the rich taste of espresso in a delightful and easy-to-make cocktail. Explore BROOD's expansive catalog of products, best practices, products, and nitro cold brew machines today.