The Recipe · No.1088 · Virgin Espresso Martini (Espresso Martini Mocktail)
Virgin Espresso Martini (Espresso Martini Mocktail), and where to source it
The foam comes from the shake, not from cream. Shake fresh espresso hard over a full tin of ice; the crema whips into that pale head, so use hot-pulled espresso and shake it longer than feels right.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep6 min
Cook0 min
Makesmakes 1
CuisineCreamy
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for1servings
Our ratio, your call. The amounts below are a tested starting point — a version, not the one and only. Anything tagged to taste is the knob you turn: start there, then make it yours.
Espresso
A fresh double shot, pulled hot so it still carries crema. Strong cold brew concentrate is the fallback, but it won't foam as high.
2 ozrecommended
Local / market
Coffee syrup
A real coffee syrup or a good coffee concentrate for the depth the liqueur used to give. Not just sugar water.
1/2 ozrecommended
Local / market
Simple syrup
Just enough to round the bitterness. Taste the espresso first, some beans need none.
1/4 ozrecommended
Local / market
Coffee beans
Three beans floated on the foam, the classic mark. Whatever you brewed with.
3 beansrecommended
Local / market
The Rundown
Greedometer●●●●●Barely a splurge
A light hand — your arteries say thanks. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortEasy
Cook it with
No-cook
The Method
ChillFill a coupe with ice water to cold it while you work.
ShakeCombine the espresso, coffee syrup, and simple syrup in a tin with ice and shake hard for a full fifteen seconds until it's frothy.
CapEmpty the coupe, double-strain the drink in, wait for the foam to rise, and set three beans on top.
Can you make Virgin Espresso Martini (Espresso Martini Mocktail) in an air fryer? — Not needed
No cooking needed here — this one comes together without heat, so the air fryer sits it out.
Can you freeze Virgin Espresso Martini (Espresso Martini Mocktail)? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Virgin Espresso Martini (Espresso Martini Mocktail) ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Virgin Espresso Martini (Espresso Martini Mocktail) gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Virgin Espresso Martini (Espresso Martini Mocktail) vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
Community Notes
Made it, tweaked it, or recognize which restaurant this tastes like? Leave a note — first-name basis, no account.