Hazelnut Espresso Martini

Angie SpuzakbyAngie Spuzak

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This hazelnut espresso martini is rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced with bold coffee flavor and subtle nutty sweetness. Made with fresh espresso and hazelnut liqueur, it’s an elegant cocktail that feels indulgent. Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or a sophisticated after-dinner drink.

Two hazelnut espresso martinis in coupe glasses, topped with coffee beans, sit on a rustic wooden surface. A jar of Nutella, coffee beans, and bottles are in the background. Text reads Hazelnut Espresso Martini.

Hazelnut Espresso Martini

As a nutrition consultant and chef, I’m always walking the line between nourishment and pleasure. I don’t believe they cancel each other out. In fact, I think the best recipes live right in the middle. This hazelnut espresso martini was born exactly there, where rich flavor, thoughtful ingredients, and a little celebration meet.

I don’t drink often, but when I do, I want it to feel special. Not sugary-for-the-sake-of-sugar special, but cozy, balanced, and worthy of slowing down for. Coffee has always been a ritual for me, whether it’s a quiet morning espresso or a strong afternoon brew that smells like possibility. Add hazelnut to the mix, and suddenly it feels both nostalgic and luxurious.

It is elegant enough for a New Year’s Eve party, but comforting enough to sip slowly on a winter night. One sip in, and you will know this one was a keeper. It’s creamy without being heavy, nutty without being overpowering, and bold from the espresso in the best possible way. If you arent up for a coffee cocktail check White Christmas Mezcal Cocktail, Creamy Pumpkin Pie Spiced Mezcal Cocktail, Pumpkin Pie Old Fashioned Cocktail, or Mezcal Cranberry Moscow Mule.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s smooth, rich, and deeply flavorful without tasting like a sugar bomb.
  • It works beautifully as a festive cocktail for a holiday party, yet feels refined enough for a quiet Valentine’s Day night in.
  • The hazelnut notes soften the bitterness of the coffee, while the espresso keeps everything grounded and grown-up.
  • It’s also naturally dairy-free, which makes it easier to enjoy without that heavy feeling afterward. If you love a cozy winter cocktail that still feels like an elegant cocktail, this one is for you.
A glass of white liquid, jars of chocolate spread, an open jar with brown spread, a bottle of hazelnut syrup, a small bottle of liqueur, and an empty glass sit on a wooden surface with a wood-grain backdrop.

Ingredients for Hazelnut Espresso Martini

  • Espresso or strong brewed coffee: I always use freshly brewed espresso when possible. It gives this espresso martini with fresh espresso a bold, aromatic base that instant coffee just can’t replicate. Strong-brewed coffee works too, especially when you want a slightly softer flavor.
  • Healthy hazelnut spread: This is where the magic happens. I use a healthy Nutella-style hazelnut spread made with simple ingredients. It brings that chocolate-hazelnut espresso martini vibe without overwhelming sweetness and adds body to the drink. I use Nioccolata.
  • Hazelnut syrup: A small amount enhances the nutty flavor and ties everything together. It rounds out the espresso and complements the hazelnut liqueur beautifully.
  • Frangelico hazelnut liqueur: This classic hazelnut liqueur cocktail ingredient adds depth and warmth. An espresso martini with Frangelico has a softer, more dessert-like finish that feels perfect for the holiday season.
  • Coconut milk: Coconut milk gives this a creamy espresso martini texture while keeping it dairy-free. It adds richness without stealing the spotlight from the coffee and hazelnut.
  • Vodka or tequila: Vodka creates a classic vodka espresso martini flavor, clean and smooth. It’s perfect for those who prefer a more traditional taste and is ideal for elegant occasions like cocktail parties or dinner soirees. On the other hand, tequila adds an unexpected edge that pairs surprisingly well with coffee, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a slightly bolder hazelnut coffee cocktail. It’s well-suited to casual gatherings or adventurous palates looking to try something unique.

Did you know?

An interesting thing about a hazelnut espresso martini is that hazelnut naturally enhances coffee’s roasted notes, making the espresso taste deeper and smoother without extra sweetness. It’s why coffee and hazelnut show up together in European cafés and desserts so often, they’re flavor soulmates. Basically, it tastes more luxurious with fewer ingredients, which is always a win 🍸☕️

A close-up of a frothy espresso martini in a cocktail glass, garnished with three coffee beans. The drink sits on a wooden coaster, with blurred bottles and jars in the rustic background.

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How to Make Hazelnut Espresso Martini

  • Brew fresh espresso or strong coffee and let it cool slightly.
  • Add the espresso, hazelnut spread, hazelnut syrup, Frangelico, coconut milk, and your choice of vodka or tequila to a blender and blend it.
  • Add the blended liquid to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
  • Shake vigorously until the mixture is cold and frothy. Strain into a chilled martini glass and enjoy immediately.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • If you don’t have Frangelico, another hazelnut liqueur works well in this espresso martini.
  • For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk, though the drink will be slightly less creamy.
  • No hazelnut syrup? A touch of maple syrup, paired with extra hazelnut spread, can still create a balanced nutty espresso martini.
  • You can also use decaf coffee for this drink.

Chef Angie’s Tips

  • Always shake longer than you think you need to. That extra shake creates the signature foam that makes a creamy espresso martini feel luxurious.
  • Taste before serving and adjust the sweetness if needed.
  • Coffee strength can vary, and this drink should feel harmonious, not sharp or sugary.

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Two frothy coffee drinks in round glasses sit on a rustic wooden table, each garnished with coffee beans. Around them are bottles of syrup, a jar of chocolate spread, and scattered coffee beans and hazelnuts.

Ways To Serve

Storage

This drink is best enjoyed fresh. If you’re prepping for a holiday party, you can mix everything except the ice and refrigerate it for a few hours. Shake with ice just before serving to keep it vibrant and frothy.

Equipment

FAQ

Is this a dairy-free espresso martini?

Yes, using coconut milk makes this espresso martini dairy-free without sacrificing creaminess.

Can I make this without alcohol?

Yes, skip the alcohol. It will still feel like a festive coffee cocktail with hazelnut.

Is this drink sweet?

It’s balanced. The sweetness is subtle and meant to enhance the espresso, not mask it.

Three cups of frothy coffee topped with coffee beans are arranged on a wooden surface, surrounded by scattered coffee beans, a small jar, and a copper jigger.

If you loved this hazelnut espresso martini, share it with someone who appreciates a good coffee cocktail with hazelnut. Pin it for later, serve it at your next holiday party, or make it your signature drink for New Year’s Eve. And if you do make it, I’d love to know how you enjoyed it, because great recipes are even better when they’re shared.

A close-up of a frothy espresso martini in a cocktail glass, garnished with three coffee beans. The drink sits on a wooden coaster, with blurred bottles and jars in the rustic background.

Hazelnut Espresso Martini

This hazelnut espresso martini is rich, smooth, and perfectly balanced with bold coffee flavor and subtle nutty sweetness. Made with fresh espresso and hazelnut liqueur, it’s an elegant cocktail that feels indulgent. Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or a sophisticated after-dinner drink.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine European
Servings 4
Calories 204 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 3/4 cup Coffee or 3 espresso shots
  • 2 tbsp Hazelnut syrup
  • 6 oz Vodka or tequila
  • 6 oz Hazelnut liquor
  • 2 tbsp Hazelnut spread
  • 1/2 cup Coconut milk full fat

Instructions
 

  • Brew fresh espresso or strong coffee and let it cool slightly.
    2. Add the espresso, hazelnut spread, hazelnut syrup, Frangelico, coconut milk, and your choice of vodka or tequila to a blender and blend it.
    3. Add the blended liquid to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
    4. Shake vigorously until the mixture is cold and frothy.
    5. Strain into a chilled martini glass and enjoy immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 204kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 1gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.3gSodium: 9mgPotassium: 122mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 0.3IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 16mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Hazelnut Espresso Martini
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Angie Spuzak

Natural Chef, Personal Chef, and Holistic Nutrition Consultant through Bauman College Holistic Nutrition

Former Owner/Chef of D’Lish Very Vegetarian Restaurant in Sedona, AZ, Cool Beans Cafe in Waynesville, NC, and Green Carrot Cafe in Cottonwood, AZ

Developed an extensive line of raw, organic, packaged foods.

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