Banana Bread Espresso Martini

If you love banana bread and espresso martinis, this banana bread espresso martini is about to become your new favorite cocktail. It tastes like a slice of warm banana bread paired with a cup of coffee, all in one glass. Last summer, banana bread lattes were all over my social media feeds, so I had to put my own spin on the trend and turn it into an espresso martini.

This post is a complete guide to making a banana bread espresso martini at home. It covers the exact recipe, why I use two kinds of vodka, the best banana liqueur to buy, and four different ways to make espresso even if you do not own an espresso machine. It is written for home bartenders who want a fun, dessert-inspired twist on the classic espresso martini without any complicated techniques. If you can shake a cocktail shaker, you can make this drink.

You'll love this banana bread espresso martini

It's delicious. If you love banana bread and espresso martinis, this is the perfect combination of both. Every sip has banana, vanilla, a little nuttiness, and that rich espresso flavor.

It's easy to make. Do not be intimidated by the ingredient list! I know it looks like a lot compared to my other cocktails, but everything goes into one shaker. That is it.

It's such a fun twist. This takes your traditional espresso martini to a whole new, fun, and fruity level. It is a guaranteed conversation starter at your next girls' night or dinner party.

Ingredients

Vodka. Yes, I do use a mix of vodkas in this recipe! To avoid being too overly sweet, I like mixing both plain vodka and vanilla vodka. For the plain vodka, use whatever brand you prefer!

Vanilla Vodka. The vanilla vodka is exactly what you need for that hint of vanilla that really brings everything else together. It's like the vanilla extract in a traditional banana bread recipe. 

Banana Liqueur. I have 99 bananas on my bar cart, but use any banana liqueur that you can find at your local liquor store. 

Amaretto. Just a little splash of amaretto, an almond-flavored Italian liqueur, adds a hint of nutty sweetness to this cocktail, which pairs so well with the banana and espresso flavors. 

Espresso. Of course, you need espresso for an espresso martini! I use a double espresso Nespresso Vertuo pod. I absolutely love my Nespresso if you're looking for a coffee machine. If you don't have a Nespresso, I've included other ways to make espresso below!

Bailey's. Bailey's, or any Irish Cream, is a must! It adds a hint of creaminess to the cocktail, making it that much more delicious. 

How to make a banana bread espresso martini

1. Brew your espresso and set it aside to allow it to cool off.
2. In a cocktail shaker, add your vodka, banana liqueur, amaretto, Bailey's, and espresso. 
3. Add ice and don't cover it right away. Give the shaker a gentle swirl to allow the espresso to cool slightly more. If you close the shaker right away and shake it, you may get espresso martini everywhere. 
4. Close the shaker and shake vigorously for 60 seconds, or until your hands can't handle the cold anymore.
5. Strain into a coupe glass or martini glass.
6. Garnish with a banana chip or 3 espresso beans.
7.  Enjoy! 

Different ways to make espresso for espresso martinis

Espresso Machine. Whether you have an espresso machine that takes grounds or a machine like a Nespresso, this is my go-to way to get espresso shots for espresso martinis.

Moka Pot. This is a super inexpensive machine to get if you really only want to brew espresso shots for at-home espresso martinis. 

Brewed Espresso or Cold Brew Concentrate. If you want to buy just espresso, there are a few brands, like Starbucks or Café Bustelo, that sell ready-to-go espresso. Alternatively, you can also use cold brew concentrate. You may not get that thick foamy froth on top, but flavor-wise, it'll do the trick.

Local Coffee Shop. You can always just order a shot or two of espresso from your local coffee shop!

Garnish ideas

• Banana Chip
• Espresso Beans

FAQs

What is the secret to a good espresso martini?

I have two secrets to giving you the best homemade espresso martini. First, using fresh espresso will give you that foamy frothy top. Second, vigorously shake for at least a minute! It seems long but trust me, it's worth it. 

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Want more espresso martini recipes?

• Tiramisu Espresso Martini
• Bourbon Espresso Martini
• Creamy Espresso Martini with Bailey's