Saltsy Hour: Twilight Espresso Cocktail

This week we’re saying cheers to Captain Eric White of Liquid Lifestyle Charters, who is on the front lines of Hurricane Ian cleanup in southwest Florida. This Saltsy Hour, let’s mix up one of his favorite drinks while supporting a wonderful cause. (And if you want to learn more about how you can help him on his supply drive through 10/10/22, check out our last post on Hurricane Ian relief.)

If you’ve ever had an espresso martini, then like Captain Eric, you’re probably a pretty big fan. You’re also probably trying to recreate its rich, coffee-forward magic at home. Well, you’ve come to the right spot. Not only do we have a fool-proof recipe, but we also have the secrets behind getting that tasty, picture-perfect foam layer on top.

Espresso Martini vs. Cocktail

The beauty of this cocktail is its simplicity. It’s also extremely versatile. While “martini” once implied the inclusion of gin and vermouth, it’s now expanded to cover a variety of spirits and mixers. Enter the espresso martini, which happens to leave both of the OG martini staples sitting back at shore.

The Saltsy Hour version of this robust beverage is called a Twilight Espresso Cocktail — because we think it deserves to be taken out of the traditional martini glass and celebrated! We love dressing up this drink in a coupe or … hold your fins… even a margarita glass, rimmed with shaved chocolate. (Behave!)

Perfecting the Foam

But before we get away with ourselves on garnishes (more on that below), let’s chat about presentation of another sort: That fabulous foamy layer.

The secret to achieving maximum fluff is two-fold.

1. Fresh espresso is a must. Use quality beans and pull your espresso as close to serving time as possible. We say this within reason — feel free to buy or make it ahead in the morning and chill it until later that evening. In fact, chilling it will make it ready for step two.
2. When you get everything added to your cocktail shaker, it’s time to roll up your sleeves. With this cocktail, you have to shake everything your mama… and your grand-mama… gave you. The aggressive, dare-we-say violent, shaking aerates the fresh espresso and other ingredients into the frothy artwork you need for maximum wow-factor.
3. We know, we only said two… but consider this a bonus step. After shaking, be sure to serve your drinks right away. Like Cinderella, the magic does not last forever!

Let’s Get Mixing…

Without further ado, here’s the Saltsy Hour recipe for a Twilight Espresso Cocktail. (Download your free printable guide below.)

Ingredients:

• 1.5 ounces vodka
• 1.5 ounces coffee liqueur
• 1 ounce creme de cacao
• 1 ounce freshly brewed espresso, reserving a few beans for garnish*
• 1 cup ice

4 steps to perfection:

• Measure all liquid ingredients into a chilled cocktail shaker
• Add ice and shake vigorously
• Strain into a chilled glass
• Garnish with coffee beans*

*If you’re really trying to impress someone, then don’t be afraid to get artsy with your garnishes. While 3 beans on top is the signature move for an adult espresso beverage — for Italians it symbolizes health, wealth, and happiness — you’ll also see shaved chocolate, espresso ‘powder’, and edible glitter dusted atop the foam. Feeling wild? Of course you are. Toss on a cocktail pick of berries or dried banana.

We think this drink pairs best with chocolate, a fancy charcuterie board, and a salty breeze. It’s also a great way to say “cheers!” to someone who is making a positive difference in the world — this one’s for you, Captain Eric!

Want to make a drink and a difference? Check out our Hurricane Ian Relief Fundraiser: