A cosy, creamy Martini Macchiato cocktail that takes the classic espresso martini flavour and adds a splash of Irish cream for extra richness. It’s quick to make, requires no sugar syrup, and is perfect for the festive season—or any time you want a smooth coffee cocktail.
If you enjoy an Espresso Martini, you’ll love this creamy twist. In Italy a macchiato is an espresso “marked” with a splash of milk — here it’s transformed into a cocktail: the Martini Macchiato.
This drink is chilled, creamy and topped with a frothy head. It’s easy to remember because it uses equal parts of each liquid, so it’s fast to mix and consistently delicious.
Ingredients – what you need
The photo below shows the ingredients and gives a visual reference for quantities.
- Espresso – Use good quality coffee (100% Arabica for best flavour). Brew strong espresso with your machine, Moka pot or French press; avoid a weak, watered-down brew.
- Kahlúa – A coffee liqueur that adds depth and sweetness.
- Vodka – A neutral vodka works best. No need for top-shelf, but avoid very cheap brands.
- Baileys (Irish cream) – Any Irish cream will add creaminess and a mellow texture.
Step-by-step photos and recipe instructions
Brew the coffee – Make a strong espresso and prepare a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Add the ingredients – Add the espresso, vodka, Kahlúa and Baileys to the shaker.
Shake and serve – Shake vigorously (the harder you shake, the more foam you create). Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with coffee beans if you like.
Recipe tips and FAQs
- Use strong coffee – A bold espresso brings the flavour forward against the spirits and cream.
- Equal parts – The recipe uses equal parts espresso, vodka, Kahlúa and Baileys, making it easy to scale and remember.
- Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter drink, swap in a vanilla-flavoured vodka or a sweeter coffee liqueur.
The foam forms when you shake the cocktail vigorously in a shaker with ice. Shake hard to create a frothy, velvety top.
More delicious cocktails to try
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Espresso Martini
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Frangelico White Russian
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The Ultimate Chocolate Martini
Drinks
Limoncello Martini (Lemon Drop Martini)
If you make this Martini Macchiato, please rate the recipe and share your experience in the comments — feedback is always appreciated!
Martini Macchiato Cocktail
By Emily
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
Ingredients
- 1 part freshly brewed espresso (30 ml / 1 fl oz)
- 1 part vodka (30 ml / 1 fl oz)
- 1 part Kahlúa coffee liqueur (30 ml / 1 fl oz)
- 1 part Baileys (30 ml / 1 fl oz)
- Ice
- 3 coffee beans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the espresso, then the vodka, Kahlúa and Baileys.
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously — the harder you shake, the more foam you’ll create.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with three coffee beans if desired.
Notes
- Use strong espresso so the coffee flavour stands up to the spirits.
- This recipe is equal parts of each liquid, making it easy to scale and remember.
- For a sweeter finish, use vanilla vodka or a sweeter coffee liqueur.
Nutrition
Calories: 275 kcal | Carbohydrates: 15 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 1 g | Sugar: 14 g
Nutrition information is approximate.
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