A splash of Kahlúa, Baileys, or RumChata is lovely, but not required. If you don’t have specialty liqueurs, you can make this easy coffee martini with good vodka, chilled coffee or espresso, and a little chocolate sauce. A hint of vanilla, a pinch of cinnamon, simple syrup, and some ice finish this quick pick-me-up martini that’s perfect as an after-dinner cocktail or a little indulgent treat.

[This page contains affiliate links which allow me to earn small commissions from qualifying purchases of fun and favorite products at no cost to you.]

The chocolate notes give this cocktail a dessert-like edge without making it overly sweet. Chocolate and brownie bites are a welcome accompaniment, making the drink feel special while still being easy to pull together.

When I used to bartend downtown, a couple would come in and ask for coffee martinis “not creamy.” That inspired this simpler version—dark, coffee-forward, and not overly rich. Sometimes Kahlúa would make an appearance, but many nights I used chilled coffee or espresso, chocolate syrup, and a good vodka for a clean, flavorful result.

I liked the idea of a dark, coffee-flavored cocktail without the creamy heavy liqueurs. In the past I used espresso-flavored vodka, which was excellent, but a straightforward vodka like Tito’s works beautifully too—especially when combined with strong coffee and chocolate.

Combine Coffee and Vodka

In a cocktail shaker, combine cooled or room-temperature coffee or espresso with vodka. Use strong brewed coffee or leftover espresso for the best coffee flavor.

Related: Easy Cinnamon Spice Rum Iced Coffee

Add Chocolate and Vanilla

Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a small splash of vanilla to the shaker. A quarter ounce of chocolate sauce gives a rich chocolate note without overpowering the coffee.

Toss in a pinch of cinnamon and fill the shaker with ice. Cap it and shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled and blended—about 10–15 seconds. The shaking chills the drink and slightly dilutes it for balance.

Related: Bright Lemony Rum-Tini

Shake, Strain, and Pour a Pick-Me-Up Martini

Prepare a martini glass (chilled if you like) and drizzle a little chocolate sauce along the inside. Strain the chilled martini into the glass. The chocolate drizzle creates a pretty, decadent touch and complements the coffee.

Garnish with small cubed brownies or serve them alongside. Rolling the brownie cubes in a little cocoa powder adds a cocoa-dusted finish that looks and tastes delightful.

If you prefer a less boozy version, reduce the vodka to 1 1/2 oz instead of 2 oz. You can also serve this drink over fresh ice in a rocks glass for a more casual presentation.

Make the Sweetest Garnish

Cube leftover brownies and skewer a few pieces for an easy garnish. If you like, roll the cubes in cocoa powder for a pretty, slightly dusty finish. If skewering isn’t your style, serve the brownies on the side like a small dessert pairing.

I often have leftover coffee around the house, so this cocktail is an easy way to elevate that extra cup into something special. It’s comforting, a little indulgent, and quick to make—perfect for holidays, dinners, or whenever you want a small treat.

Serve immediately while chilled and enjoy. Pair it with brownies, cookies, or buttery biscuits for a lovely after-dinner moment. This quick coffee martini wakes up the senses and satisfies a chocolate-coffee craving.

How do you like it?

Do you prefer caramel instead of chocolate, or a creamier version with a splash of cream or liqueur? There are many delicious variations—try different syrups, flavored vodkas, or garnishes and see what becomes your go-to pick-me-up. If you make this, raise a glass and enjoy!

you might also like…