A silky Espresso Martini with an Asian Twist
The Espresso Martini has become one of the world’s most iconic modern cocktails. Rich espresso, smooth vodka and coffee liqueur come together in a drink that is both elegant and energising.
By replacing part of the sweetness with Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur, this classic gains an entirely new dimension. The natural aromas of pandan, often described as vanilla, toasted coconut and fragrant rice, soften the bitterness of the espresso while adding subtle tropical notes.
The result is a silky cocktail with layers of coffee, vanilla and pandan that feels familiar, yet completely unique.
Ingredients
- 40 ml (1.35 oz) Vodka
- 20 ml (0.7 oz) Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur
- 20 ml (0.7 oz) Coffee Liqueur
- 30 ml (1 oz) Fresh Espresso
- 5 ml (0.15 oz) Simple Syrup (optional)
- Cubed ice
- Pandan leaf (garnish)
- Three coffee beans (garnish)
- Coupe glass or Martini glass
Method
- Brew a fresh espresso and allow it to cool slightly.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice.
- Add the vodka, Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur, coffee liqueur and espresso.
- Add the syrup if you prefer a slightly sweeter serve.
- Shake hard until the shaker becomes ice cold and a thick foam develops.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with three coffee beans and pandan leaf.
Taste profile
The first sip delivers rich espresso and roasted coffee notes, followed by the smooth sweetness of vanilla and pandan. The tropical character of Bandoeng’22 creates a softer, creamier finish than a traditional Espresso Martini without overpowering the coffee. Expect a cocktail that is rich, aromatic and exceptionally smooth.
Why pandan works with coffee
Coffee naturally contains roasted, chocolate-like and nutty flavors. Pandan brings soft notes of vanilla, coconut and fragrant rice that complement these roasted characteristics remarkably well. Instead of competing with the espresso, pandan rounds out its bitterness and adds extra depth, making the cocktail approachable for both coffee lovers and adventurous cocktail drinkers.
Perfect for
- After dinner
- Cocktail evenings
- Dessert pairings
- Coffee lovers looking for something different
Interested in more Pandan Liqueur cocktail recipes?
Discover more of our favorite pandan cocktails we call the Bandoeng’22 Pandan Liqueur Perfect Serves; Pandan Spritz, Pandan Negroni, Pandan Coconut Mule or Pandan Gimlet
Food pairing
The Bandoeng’22 Pandan Espresso Martini pairs beautifully with:
- Dark chocolate desserts
- Tiramisu
- Coffee-flavoured pastries
- Vanilla cheesecake
- Indonesian Spekkoek
