Copycat Cutwater Espresso Martini Recipe

Today, I’m sharing my take on the Cutwater Espresso Martini recipe. Whether you’re throwing a laid-back gathering or treating yourself after a long week, this rich and velvety cocktail is sure to impress. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make. No barista experience required! Let’s shake things up and get that perfect foamy top, just like the pros.

What Is Cutwater Espresso Martini?

Cutwater Espresso Martini is a ready-to-drink canned cocktail from Cutwater Spirits, basically an espresso martini in a can. It’s made with Cutwater vodka, a coffee-cream liqueur, and cold-brew coffee flavor. Serve it cold straight from the can, or shake it over ice.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Cutwater Vodka
• 1 oz Fresh Espresso
• 1 oz Coffee Liqueur
• 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
• Ice.

Optional garnishes:

• 3 whole coffee beans (classic look)
• A sprinkle of chocolate or cocoa powder.

Instructions:

1. Brew Your Espresso: Start with fresh, hot espresso if possible. The warmth helps create that luxurious foam, but cold brew concentrate can work in a pinch.
2. Chill Your Glass: Put your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes, or fill it with ice water while you prep the ingredients. This keeps your cocktail crisp.
3. Shake It Up: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, and simple syrup.
4. Tip: The key is a super hard shake really go for it! This brings air into the mix and gives you that beautiful creamy foam on top.
5. Strain and Pour: Dump any meltwater from your glass. Strain the shaken mixture using a fine mesh strainer into your chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish: Top with 3 coffee beans for a nod to tradition, or use a dusting of cocoa for a luxurious finish.

Tips For The Perfect Cutwater Espresso Martini:

• Use Fresh Espresso: The fresher your coffee, the better the flavor and foam.
• Don’t Skimp on the Shake: Give it at least 30 seconds of vigorous shaking to build that signature froth.
• Simple Syrup Control: Cutwater’s version is perfectly balanced, so start with 0.5 oz and adjust if you like it sweeter or more bitter.
• Make It Your Own: Try a chocolate or vanilla-infused vodka, or add a splash of Irish cream for a twist!
• Chill Everything: Cold ingredients deliver a smooth, restaurant-style martini.

What To Serve Cutwater Espresso Martini With

Sweet Pairings:

• Chocolate Desserts: The bold coffee flavor of the martini pairs beautifully with anything chocolate. Think chocolate truffles, flourless chocolate cake, or chocolate mousse. The espresso notes enhance the cocoa, while the creamy cocktail balances any bitterness.
• Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert made with coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone, and cocoa. The espresso martini mirrors the coffee flavors for a truly harmonious pairing.
• Shortbread & Biscotti: Simple, buttery cookies or crunchy biscotti are perfect for dipping and add a satisfying texture alongside your drink.
• Affogato: If you want to keep the coffee theme going, serve vanilla ice cream with a shot of espresso. You can pour a little espresso martini over the top, too, for a grown-up twist.

Savory Pairings:

• Cheese & Charcuterie: A platter with creamy brie, aged cheddar, and salty prosciutto or smoked meats works well. The cocktail’s coffee and vodka flavors can cut through the fattiness while highlighting savory notes.
• Salted Nuts: Roasted almonds, cashews, or a mixed nut bowl complement the sweetness of the martini and cleanse your palate between sips.
• Olives: Marinated olives bring a briny, earthy flavor that creates an interesting contrast with the cocktail’s smooth taste.

Light Bites:

• Fresh Strawberries: The natural sweetness and slight acid of ripe strawberries play well with the coffee and chocolate notes.
• Mini Pastries: Small, flaky pastries (think mini eclairs or profiteroles) are easy to share and look elegant on a table beside your espresso martinis.
• Fruit Tarts: Tarts with berries or citrus add freshness and a tangy counterpoint to the drink’s richness.

Ingredient Substitutes

Vodka Substitute:

• Coffee-Flavored Vodka: Adds even more depth to the drink’s coffee profile.
• Vanilla Vodka: Introduces a subtle sweetness and dessert-like aroma.
• White Rum: Similar body, slightly sweeter edge. Good if you enjoy a softer flavor.
• Gin (mild, not heavily botanically): For an herbal twist, but use sparingly.

Fresh Espresso Substitute:

• Strong Cold Brew Concentrate: Delivers robust flavor and a hint of smoothness. Use a similar volume.
• Instant Espresso Powder: Dissolve 1-2 tsp in an ounce of hot water. Works in a pinch and is shelf-stable.
• Strong Brewed Coffee: Use double strength for maximum flavor.
• Coffee Extract: Just a few drops (or per bottle directions) for a concentrated taste if you’re making single servings.

Coffee Liqueur Substitute:

• Homemade Coffee Syrup + Vodka: Mix equal parts strong coffee, sugar, and a splash of vodka. Simmer, cool, and use in place of liqueur.
• Tia Maria: Another coffee liqueur with a lighter, more aromatic edge compared to Kahlúa.
• Crème de Cacao: Adds a chocolate-coffee twist.
• Amaretto: For a nutty undertone that’s especially good with chocolate desserts.

Simple Syrup Substitute:

• Agave Syrup: Slightly floral, blends easily.
• Honey Syrup: Mix 2 parts honey with 1 part hot water for easy dissolving.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a rich, earthy sweetness especially good with vanilla or chocolate accents.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit Syrup: For a sugar-free alternative.

Bonus: Flavored Variations:

• Add Baileys or other Irish Cream for a creamy, dessert-style martini.
• Splash of Hazelnut Liqueur (Frangelico) for a nutty touch.
• Chocolate Bitters or Mole Bitters add complexity, especially with chocolate desserts.

Final Thoughts

For me, few things compare to that first silky, coffee-infused sip at home, especially when shared with friends or savored as a well-earned treat after a long day. With these tips, ingredient ideas, and pairing suggestions, you’re all set to shake up something special, no matter your mood or gathering.

More Drink Recipes:

• Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Creamer Recipe
• Copycat Fanta Pina Colada Recipe
• Copycat Sprite Blueberry Lemonade Recipe
• Copycat Crumbl Cookie Dirty Soda Recipe
• Copycat Dairy Queen Pecan Mudslide Recipe

Cutwater Espresso Martini

Print

Serves: 8 Prep Time: 3 Minutes Cooking Time: 0 Minute 0 Minute

Nutrition facts: 540 calories 14 grams fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

Ingredients

• 2 oz Cutwater Vodka
• 1 oz Fresh Espresso
• 1 oz Coffee Liqueur
• 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
• Ice.

Optional garnishes:

• 3 whole coffee beans (classic look)
• A sprinkle of chocolate or cocoa powder.

Instructions

1. Brew Your Espresso: Start with fresh, hot espresso if possible. The warmth helps create that luxurious foam, but cold brew concentrate can work in a pinch.
2. Chill Your Glass: Put your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes, or fill it with ice water while you prep the ingredients. This keeps your cocktail crisp.
3. Shake It Up: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, and simple syrup.
4. Tip: The key is a super hard shake really go for it! This brings air into the mix and gives you that beautiful creamy foam on top.
5. Strain and Pour: Dump any meltwater from your glass. Strain the shaken mixture using a fine mesh strainer into your chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish: Top with 3 coffee beans for a nod to tradition, or use a dusting of cocoa for a luxurious finish.