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This recipe is holiday decadence in a coupe.
If ever there were a cocktail that captured the spirit of the season, it’s the Eggnog Espresso Martini. Creamy, caffeinated, and laced with bourbon warmth, this festive riff on the classic espresso martini is perfect for winter nights when you want a little something bold, cozy, and indulgent.
I first made this one for a holiday gathering where I wanted something both sophisticated and fun—a cocktail that could double as dessert.
With the eggnog’s velvety richness and the cold brew’s smooth kick, it turned out to be the perfect in-between: a drinkable treat that feels celebratory from the first sip.
This cocktail starts where all good martinis begin—with the spirit. Instead of the traditional vodka base, we’re using bourbon. It brings an oaky, caramel-smooth backbone to the drink that adds depth and holiday warmth.
A dash of vanilla extract accentuates the bourbon’s natural notes, lending sweetness and that familiar festive aroma.
Next comes coffee liqueur, adding dark, roasted richness and a hint of sweetness.
It layers beautifully with cold brew coffee, which brings bold flavor without the bitterness you sometimes find in espresso. The cold brew keeps things smooth and balanced, giving the drink a chocolatey undertone that ties into the rest of the ingredients.
And here’s where it turns into holiday magic: eggnog. This creamy, spiced addition transforms the drink from a sleek martini into something far more indulgent and seasonal.
Its custard-like texture blends seamlessly with the coffee and bourbon, making the whole sip feel like dessert—without losing the cocktail’s structure.
Shake it all together and strain into a chilled coupe glass. The texture is velvety and thick with a frothy top.
For garnish? A light dusting of cinnamon and nutmeg, plus three coffee beans—the traditional espresso martini trio, symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness.
Step 1: Add all ingredients with ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake until chilled.
Step 2: Strain into glass and top with nutmeg, cinnamon and coffee beans.
Whether you serve it as a pre-dinner pick-me-up or a sweet ending to a holiday meal, the Eggnog Espresso Martini is a seasonal stunner. Equal parts cozy and classy, it’s the kind of cocktail that keeps spirits bright—and coffee lovers very happy.
Post your creation on Instagram and tag #queenbeemixology or @queenbeemixology!
