Summer’s here, the sun is shining, and it’s the perfect time to trade your usual cup of coffee for something a little bolder, a little more playful, and yes — a little boozy. Because let’s face it, espresso doesn’t just wake you up — it can also turn into cocktails that are smooth, refreshing, indulgent, or downright celebratory.

In this guide, we’re shaking things up with four espresso-based cocktails: the classic Espresso Martini, the dessert-inspired Tiramisu Espresso Cocktail, the bright and effervescent Citrus Espresso Spritz, and the bitter, aromatic Spiced Espresso Negroni. Each one is easy to make at home, visually impressive, and endlessly customisable.

Whether you’re hosting friends for a summer soirée, serving an after-dinner treat, or simply indulging in something special on a warm evening, these recipes are your ticket to café-quality cocktails right in your own kitchen.

What Coffee Should You Use?

The short answer, any of Merlo’s espresso beans will shine in these cocktails. Freshly roasted beans give the best crema and balance, whether you’re using our signature blends or exploring single-origin options.

For dessert-style cocktails like the Tiramisu Espresso Cocktail, a medium roast works beautifully, adding chocolatey notes and richness. For brighter, more citrusy drinks like the Citrus Espresso Spritz, a light or medium roast will highlight the fresh, lively espresso character.

Espresso Martini (Classic)

Bold • Smooth • Elegant

Ingredients:

• 30ml fresh espresso (hot, strong)
• 45ml vodka
• 20ml coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
• 10ml sugar syrup (1:1 sugar + water)
• Ice
• 3 coffee beans (for garnish)

Method

1. Add espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup to a shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker frosts.
3. Double strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with three coffee beans.

TIP Fresh hot espresso is key — it creates a luscious crema and ensures your cocktail is perfectly balanced.

Tiramisu Espresso Cocktail

Creamy • Indulgent • Dessert-like

Inspired by the classic Italian dessert, this cocktail combines espresso, coffee liqueur, amaretto, and vanilla syrup, finished with lightly whipped cream and cocoa dusting.

Ingredients:

• 30ml fresh espresso
• 30ml coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
• 30ml amaretto (or Baileys for extra creaminess)
• 20ml vanilla syrup
• 30ml lightly whipped cream (pourable)
• Ice
• Cocoa powder or grated chocolate for garnish

Method:

1. Add espresso, coffee liqueur, amaretto, and vanilla syrup to a shaker with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a coupe glass.
3. Float the whipped cream over the back of a spoon.
4. Dust with cocoa powder or chocolate shavings.

Perfect for Dessert pairing, celebrations, or replacing your after-dinner sweet.

Citrus Espresso Spritz

Bright • Effervescent • Refreshing

A sparkling summer twist — espresso meets Aperol, orange liqueur, and soda water, finished with an orange slice for that citrusy pop.

Ingredients:

• 30ml fresh espresso
• 30ml Aperol
• 15ml orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau)
• 60ml soda water
• Ice
• Orange slice

Method:

1. Fill a tall glass with ice.
2. Add Aperol and orange liqueur.
3. Pour over fresh espresso.
4. Top with soda water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with an orange slice.

Perfect for Long lunches, sunny afternoons, or any aperitivo-style gathering.

Spiced Espresso Negroni

Bitter • Complex • Aromatic

A bold reimagining of the classic Negroni, combining espresso with gin, sweet vermouth, Campari, and optional chocolate bitters, finished with an orange twist.

Ingredients:

• 25ml fresh espresso
• 25ml gin
• 25ml sweet vermouth
• 25ml Campari
• 1 dash chocolate bitters (optional)
• Orange peel
• Ice

Method:

1. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice.
2. Stir until well chilled.
3. Strain into a rocks glass over ice.
4. Express orange peel oils over the glass and garnish.

Perfect for Aperitif hour or adventurous Negroni lovers.

Adding Your Personal Twist

• Swap syrups for honey or maple for a natural sweetness.
• Use coconut cream or Baileys instead of traditional cream for an indulgent twist.
• Dust with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder to elevate presentation and aroma.
• Experiment with espresso strength or coffee origin to suit your taste.

The Final Sip

And there you have it, four espresso cocktails to make for any celebration extra special. From the classic, bold Espresso Martini to the sparkling Citrus Spritz and the complex Spiced Espresso Negroni, these drinks prove espresso is endlessly versatile.

Mix, shake, garnish, and enjoy — your home bar just got a café-quality upgrade.