Most espresso martinis call it quits after dinner, but this one's built specifically to replace your tiramisu. The Nocciola Espresso swaps coffee liqueur for Frangelico, bringing roasted hazelnut into the mix alongside fresh espresso and a touch of brown sugar syrup. Those molasses notes in the syrup play beautifully with espresso's natural bitterness, creating something that tastes darker and more caramelized than the original.
The mole bitters are doing serious work here, adding whispers of chocolate and warm spice that make the whole thing taste like you're drinking an Italian dessert. It's rich without being cloying, bitter enough to keep you interested, and creamy in that satisfying way that makes you want another sip. The hazelnut isn't shy, but it doesn't steamroll the coffee either.
Serve this after a heavy meal when you want something sweet but not too sweet, caffeinated but refined. It's the kind of drink that makes your guests forget they ordered panna cotta. Give it a shake next time you're planning a dinner party that needs a strong finish.

Food Pairing
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Nocciola Espresso
A Hazelnut-Spiked Espresso Martini for the Dessert Course
martini·vodka
Nocciola Espresso
Strong·coupe
sweetbittercreamy
Ingredients
- 2 ozvodka
- 1 ozfresh espresso, cooled
- 0.75 ozhazelnut liqueur (Frangelico)
- 0.25 ozbrown sugar syrup (1:1)
- 2 dashesmole bitters
Method
- 1.Brew fresh espresso and let cool to room temperature
- 2.Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice
- 3.Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled and frothy
- 4.Double strain into a chilled coupe glass
Garnish3 espresso beans arranged in a line
Note: This espresso martini variation leans into nutty, caramelized flavors. The hazelnut liqueur adds depth and sweetness, while brown sugar syrup brings molasses notes that echo the espresso's roasted character. Mole bitters add subtle chocolate and spice complexity, making this feel like a liquid tiramisu.
#food-pairing#dessert#vodka#cocktail#recipe#craft-cocktail#fall
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