Dairy-Free Espresso Martini with No Kahlua

This Dairy-Free Espresso Martini with No Kahlua is a delicious coffee mocktail that comes rich in flavor and entirely smooth. Unlike the traditional version, this recipe is entirely dairy-free, has no Kahlua (instead a nice substitute), and is the perfect balance between sweet, mild, and absolutely toasty in aroma. 

Honestly, I don't know where to begin with the Espresso Martini. It's literally one of my favorite ways to enjoy caffeine besides in the form of a latte. If you're not new to Orchids + Sweet Tea, then you know that I enjoy turning classic cocktails into great mocktail options and this martini is no exception.

My husband is obsessed with this drink and I definitely see me making this on weekends or for special occasions as a way to celebrate. 

Ingredients for Alcohol-Free Kahlua Substitute

The tangy flavor in these drinks comes from a homemade Kahlua substitute. And guess what? You only need two ingredients (plus water) to make it. 

• Brown sugar. I use organic to make sure it’s vegan
• Instant coffee. Espresso powder also works.  

Ingredients for Espresso Martini without Espresso or Dairy

The ingredients to flavor this martini is super simple and can be adjusted based on sweetness preference. Here’s what you need to make them:

• Khalua substitute. I recommend using instant coffee if you don't want to include any form of espresso in this drink.
• Vanilla. to balance the richness of coffee.
• Cold brew. For a sweeter, milder taste than espresso or strong coffee.
• Condensed milk. For this recipe, I used dairy-free condensed milk by Let's Do....Organic. Such a nice creamy substitute.
• Almond milk. Adds a nice smoothness to drink. You can also use coconut, oat, or cashew milk.

Need A Pick-Me-Up without Coffee?

 I decided to do a bit of research and I found a few great healthy alternatives to coffee. Now, you’ll be surprised to know that these options give you the same added boost that you need along with some other additional benefits, so be sure to give them a try when you get a chance.

Garnishes and Serving Dairy-Free Espresso Martini with No Kahlua

These espresso martinis are sure to be a show-stopper, therefore, understanding how to best spruce them up for a special occasion is important. Before serving, you can dress them up even more with festive toppings like:

• Coconut whipped cream. You can use regular dairy whipped cream if you aren't concerned with it being dairy-free.
• Cinnamon stick. A stick of two of cinnamon adds a nice kick of flavor and makes for a simple garnish.
• Shaved chocolate. These add a dramatic touch and I love using my vegetable peeler for fancy chocolate shavings.

More Decadent Drink Recipes

Once you’ve mastered this espresso martini drink, try these other homemade sips should be next on your list:

• Chocolate Peppermint Mocktail
• Sugar Cookie Mocktail
• Vegan Caramel Eggnog Mocktail
• Dairy-Free Caramel Apple Cider

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you make this Dairy-Free Espresso Martini with No Kahlua, tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea

Espresso Martini [Dairy-Free + No Kahlua]

5 from 5 votes

The perfect coffee mocktail that's perfect for any coffee lover out there!

Prep Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 5 mins

Serves: 1 serving

Print It Pin It

Ingredients

KAHLUA SUBSTITUTE:

• ¼ cup filtered water
• 2 Tbsps organic brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder

MARTINI:

• ½ cup cold brew
• ⅓ cup dairy-free condensed milk (I love using Let's Do...Organic)
• ¼ cup Almond milk (You can use your favorite plant-based milk!)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of ground cinnamon

GARNISH:

• Cinnamon sticks
• Coconut whipped cream
• Shaved vegan chocolate
• Fresh rosemary sprigs

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

KAHLUA SUBSTITUTE SIMPLE SYRUP:

• In a saucepan over medium-high heat, add the water and brown sugar, stirring until sugar has dissolved completely, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the espresso powder until dissolved. Let cool.

TO MAKE MARTINI:

• Add all of the martini ingredients together in a cocktail shaker (including the Khalua sub),shaking well until combined.
• Assemble the martinis: For each martini, fill a good cocktail or martini glass halfway with crushed ice and pour the espresso martini mixture in until glass(es) is filled. Top with cinnamon sticks, fresh rosemary sprigs, or your favorite garnish.
• Sip and Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

• KAHLUA: Kahlúa coffee liqueur is one of the main ingredients in many of the world's favorite cocktails. Therefore, to make this recipe non-alcoholic----I created a great simple syrup substitute.
• ALCOHOL: If you'd like to keep this recipe dairy-free, but want to spruce things up with alcohol, feel free to add 1 ounce of rum, vodka, etc.
• SERVING: To make additional martinis, simply double or triple ingredients, depending on need.

Nutrition

Calories: 444kcal | Carbohydrates: 81g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 224mg | Potassium: 510mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 79g | Vitamin A: 272IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 391mg | Iron: 0.4mg

DID YOU MAKE THIS recipe?

Tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea

Espresso Martini [Dairy-Free + No Kahlua].

Love this Post? SHARE!