I stumbled upon this game-changing Espresso Mocktini by happy accident! When a friend mentioned combining espresso with condensed milk, I knew I had to try it. This velvety, creamy non-alcoholic espresso martini gives you all the sophisticated vibes of the real thing without the alcohol, using just 3 simple ingredients from your pantry.
The secret? That perfect balance of rich espresso and sweetened condensed milk creates an irresistible frothy top that'll make everyone ask for your recipe. This mocktail feels like a special treat that doesn't make you miss the booze at all.
Why I Love This
- Perfect for all occasions - From elegant dinner parties to cozy nights in, this mocktini brings sophisticated flavor without the alcohol
- Quick and simple - Ready in just 5 minutes with minimal ingredients and equipment
- Customizable - Easily adjust sweetness and coffee strength to your preference
- Crowd-pleaser - Coffee lovers and non-drinkers alike will appreciate this elegant alternative
- Instagram-worthy presentation - Beautiful crema foam top just like a traditional espresso martini
- Great for any time of day - Enjoy as a dessert drink or sophisticated afternoon pick-me-up
Ingredients
I carefully selected these ingredients to create the perfect balance in this mocktail. The espresso brings that bold coffee flavor we love in a traditional martini, while the condensed milk adds just enough sweetness and creates that silky texture without being too heavy.
Skim milk lightens everything up, and the vigorous shaking with ice creates that gorgeous frothy top that makes this drink special. It's a simple combination that delivers complex, satisfying flavor in every sip.
- 30ml (1oz) fresh espresso - Provides the rich coffee flavor and beautiful crema
- 30ml (2 tbsp) sweetened condensed milk - Creates creamy sweetness and perfect texture
- 60ml (¼ cup) skim milk - Balances the richness while keeping the drink light
- 30ml (1oz) non-alcoholic vodka alternative - Optional, adds complexity (see alternatives below)
- Ice cubes - For shaking and chilling
- Coffee beans or cocoa powder - Optional garnish
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker with strainer - Creates the perfect frothy top and chills the drink (a mason jar with lid works in a pinch)
- Jigger or measuring cups - For precise measurements to achieve the perfect balance of flavors
- Martini glass - The classic V-shaped glass showcases the beautiful layers and foam
- Espresso maker - To brew fresh, rich espresso (can substitute with strong brewed coffee)
- Ice cube tray - For plenty of ice to properly chill the drink
How To Make
- Brew your espresso and allow it to cool slightly (2-3 minutes) while gathering other ingredients
- Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice
- Add espresso, sweetened condensed milk, and skim milk to the shaker
- Add non-alcoholic vodka alternative if using
- Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold
- Strain immediately into a chilled martini glass
- Garnish with three coffee beans or a light dusting of cocoa powder (optional)
- Serve immediately while the crema is still thick and frothy
Substitutions
- No espresso machine? Use 30ml of cold brew concentrate or very strong brewed coffee (double strength)
- Dairy-free option: Substitute condensed coconut milk and oat milk for a vegan version
- Sweetness variations: Try vanilla syrup instead of condensed milk for a different flavor profile
- Non-alcoholic spirits: Ritual Zero Proof, Seedlip, or Lyre's White Cane Spirit all work well
- Add complexity: A dash of alcohol-free bitters adds depth without the alcohol
- Flavor boost: Add ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra dimension
Pro Tips
- Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor and that signature crema on top
- Chill your martini glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving for an extra-cold drink
- Shake with enthusiasm! The vigorous shaking is key to creating that luxurious frothy top
- Serve immediately after shaking to enjoy the perfect texture and temperature
- For a dessert version, add a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings on top
- Make a batch by multiplying ingredients and storing in a pitcher (just shake individual portions with ice before serving)
FAQ
Make sure your espresso is fresh and you're shaking very vigorously with plenty of ice. The proteins in the milk combined with the coffee oils create the foam.
Mix the ingredients up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate, but always shake with ice just before serving to achieve the proper temperature and frothy texture.
This drink features a prominent coffee flavor. If you prefer it milder, use less espresso or add a bit more milk.
The sweetened condensed milk provides a moderate sweetness. Adjust to taste by using more or less.
While alcohol-free, this contains caffeine from the espresso, so it's not recommended for young children.
Approximately 112 calories per serving, making it a reasonable treat compared to many other dessert drinks.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Non-Alcoholic Espresso Martini
Ingredients
- 30 ml 1oz fresh espresso - Provides the rich coffee flavor and beautiful crema
- 30 ml 2 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk - Creates creamy sweetness and perfect texture
- 60 ml ¼ cup skim milk - Balances the richness while keeping the drink light
- 30 ml 1oz non-alcoholic vodka alternative - Optional, adds complexity (see alternatives below)
- Ice cubes - For shaking and chilling
- Coffee beans or cocoa powder - Optional garnish
Instructions
- Brew your espresso and allow it to cool slightly (2-3 minutes) while gathering other ingredients
- Fill your cocktail shaker halfway with ice
- Add espresso, sweetened condensed milk, and skim milk to the shaker
- Add non-alcoholic vodka alternative if using
- Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold
- Strain immediately into a chilled martini glass
- Garnish with three coffee beans or a light dusting of cocoa powder (optional)
- Serve immediately while the crema is still thick and frothy
Comments
No Comments