Chai Espresso Martini Recipe (Dirty Chai-tini)
Watch the recipe video on Instagram.
My Chai Espresso Martini is sure to be your new favorite cocktail as we head into fall. This cozy and comforting spin on the traditional espresso martini is packed with warm spices that are just perfect for this time of year and into the holiday season. In my opinion, it's the perfect drink for as soon as the cooler weather begins!
I don't know about you, but I used to order a LOT of "Dirty Chais" when I first started drinking coffee during college. I thought I was so cool calling it that! But all these years later, I still love the combination of espresso and chai. And I know I'm not the only one!
The Espresso Martini is a classic cocktail that most of us know and love. And the combo of the creamy texture and chai spices truly gives us the perfect balance for the cooler weather and winter months.
If you're looking for more Espresso Martini recipes, I've got lots for you to try! Check out my Classic Espresso Martini, Espresso Mar-tiki, Red Velvet Espresso Martini and Sugar Cookie Espresso Martini - which is especially perfect for the upcoming holiday season.
INGREDIENTS:
Vodka: this one is pretty straightforward. You can also use vanilla vodka if you have it on hand to give this even more flavor.
Chai tea concentrate: this is the star of the show here! The classic chai spice is what makes this a perfect cocktail. Nothing says "fall" quite like chai!
Espresso: because let's be honest - it just wouldn't be an espresso martini without a shot of espresso!
Irish cream: there's two camps when it comes to an espresso martini - with or without Irish cream. I personally prefer mine with it to get that creamy texture.
Simple syrup: this is actually optional. I include a small amount of simple syrup when I make this drink, and my classic espresso martini, but I honestly forgot to include it when I was recording the recipe video and I didn't miss it one bit.
Substitutions & Additions:
Don't have an espresso machine? No problem! I'd suggest using cold brew coffee. You can also add some coffee liqueur, maybe 1/2 ounce, to really pump up the coffee flavor.
Can't find chai concentrate? There's also a simple solution to this! You can brew your own chai at home using chai teabags.
Can't do dairy? You can substitute the Irish cream for almond milk or oat milk.
METHOD:
Start by brewing your espresso or decaf espresso. Set aside so it can cool to room temperature.
Once your shot of espresso has cooled, place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer to chill while you make your drink. You want to serve it in a nice chilled martini glass!
Add vodka, chai tea concentrate, freshly-brewed espresso, Irish cream and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Add ice, then shake vigorously until chilled. The key to getting that nice frothy top is giving it a good shake.
Strain into your chilled martini glass. Garnish with a star anise pod or 3 espresso beans. You can also give it a sprinkle of cinnamon if you'd like.
Chai Espresso Martini
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1.5 oz chai tea concentrate
- 1 oz espresso, cooled
- 1/2 oz Irish cream
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Brew espresso. Set aside so it can cool completely.
- Placing your coupe or martini glass in the freezer to chill while you make your drink.
- Add vodka, chai tea concentrate, espresso, Irish cream and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Add ice, then shake vigorously. The harder you shake, the more foam you’ll get on top!
- Strain into your chilled glass. Top with a star anise pod or 3 espresso beans, and enjoy!
Looking for more drinks like this? Try some of these:
Cheers,
Danica
