This fun, five-ingredient virgin Espresso Martini is made with spirit-free alternatives, vanilla, and fresh espresso. A zero-proof sip that will be everyone’s favourite in no time! 

What Is an Espresso Martini?

An espresso martini is a caffeinated cocktail that’s really making a comeback on menus these days. The traditional cocktail is made with a shot of espresso, coffee liqueur, vodka, and simple syrup. It’s like a latte but boozy. 

Typically, it is served chilled in a coupe and garnished with coffee beans. It’s classy, delicious, and full of bold coffee flavor!

What Makes This Recipe Great

It’s time to take the booze out of everyone’s favorite cocktail. This virgin espresso martini mocktail takes about 5 minutes to put together, is absolutely beautiful, and although I’m not a coffee drinker, the smells in the kitchen when I prepare this drink are absolutely divine.

Plus, if you’re a non-drinker, it’s always fun to have a go-to mocktail, and I don’t know about you, but a beautiful martini seems like the perfect pick!

Whether you’re doing a dry January, are sober, or prefer to abstain from alcohol, mocktails are such a fun way to delight in the flavour of a cocktail without any of its effects. Try my Matcha Martini Mocktail, this Virgin Mango Passionfruit Margarita, and this Sparkling Punch Spritz for more fun options!

How to Make a Non-Alcoholic Espresso Martini 

Obviously, the key ingredients in an espresso martini, vodka, and coffee liqueur contain alcohol. So to make this non-alcoholic, we’re using some incredible substitutes: alcohol-free vodka and coffee liqueur! 

Sure, you can make this recipe without the non-alcoholic subs. However, your drink will taste like a sweetened cold brew. I recommend using non-alcoholic substitutes for the best flavor.

The coffee liqueur substitute I’m using is significantly less creamy than your typical coffee liqueur, so for a more true-to-original mouth feel and texture, I’d recommend also shaking with a few tablespoons of coconut milk or coconut cream.

Ingredient Notes

• non-alcoholic vodka: I used this one. 
• non-alcoholic coffee spirit: I used this coffee spirit. 
• espresso drip: You can also use instant espresso mixed with a bit of hot water to dissolve. 
• vanilla bean paste: If you don’t have access to this, feel free to substitute for vanilla extract. 
• maple syrup
• coffee beans to garnish
• canned coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk: some recipes call for heavy cream, but my vegan version of this coffee mocktail contains no dairy. 

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare a fresh serving of drip espresso and let it chill in the freezer for a moment while you prepare your remaining ingredients.
2. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker without ice and shake to combine. Then, add a handful of ice cubes and shake vigorously to chill.
3. To serve, strain and pour into a coupe cocktail glass, and garnish with 3 coffee beans.

Expert Tips

• Coupe Glasses: Espresso martinis are traditionally served in a coupe glass. If you don’t have this, feel free to serve it in a regular martini glass or whichever glass you have on hand. 

• Espresso: Fresh drip espresso is always a winner, but feel free to use instant espresso in a pinch. You simply mix a bit of the powder with hot water until it dissolves. 

Recipe Variations

• Coffee Rim: Kick this drink up a notch by adding some fun garnishes. You can make a coffee rim for your glass by coating the rim of the glass with maple syrup. Then invert the glass into a shallow plate of ground coffee, cocoa powder, and/or espresso beans. Flip it over, then fill your glass with a virgin espresso martini!
• Additional Mix-ins: Another upgrade is to add a touch of cinnamon or cardamom to the drink. This is also a great recipe to experiment with flavoured simple syrups. For example, I think peppermint, chocolate, or caramel syrups would be delicious twists. 
• Espresso Martini Bar: You can also offer these variations in a “build-your-own” setting so guests can pick and choose their favorite flavourings and options for this delicious drink. 

Recipe FAQs

More Drink Recipes

How to Make a Nitro Matcha Latte at Home

Piña Colada Mocktail 

Matcha Coquito

If you make this recipe, be sure to let me know what you think with a star rating and comment below! Follow me on Instagram for more delicious recipes!