Creamy Toasted Marshmallow Espresso Martini Recipe

Posted on November 10, 2025

toasted marshmallow espresso martini - featured image

Introduction

The first sip of a creamy toasted marshmallow espresso martini feels like an indulgent hug in a glass. The smoky sweetness of toasted marshmallows paired with the bold, velvety espresso creates a cocktail that’s nothing short of magical. I vividly remember the first time I made this—it was a chilly winter evening, and I was craving something special to wind down after a long day. A little experiment with marshmallows and my espresso machine turned into what’s now a crowd-favorite cocktail among my friends and family.

This recipe is perfect for cozy nights in, celebratory occasions, or whenever you want to serve your guests something that’s equal parts fun and sophisticated. It’s indulgent without being over the top, and honestly, once you taste it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just dipping your toes into mixology, this espresso martini with a toasted marshmallow twist is sure to be a hit.

Let’s dive into the details so you can recreate this irresistible drink at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Decadent Taste: The toasted marshmallow adds a smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the rich espresso and creamy base.
Showstopper Presentation: This cocktail looks as impressive as it tastes, with its toasted marshmallow garnish stealing the show.
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a bartender to nail this recipe—it’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for seasoned mixologists.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party, date night, or girls’ night in, this martini is guaranteed to bring smiles all around.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, creaminess, or espresso intensity to suit your preferences.

What sets this cocktail apart is the toasted marshmallow twist—it’s not just another espresso martini. The marshmallow’s smoky caramel notes add depth and a touch of nostalgia, making every sip a treat. It’s fun, indulgent, and perfect for creating memorable moments.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients you can find at your local store or might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Vodka: The base spirit for this cocktail. Choose a smooth, high-quality vodka for the best results.
Kahlúa: A coffee liqueur that brings sweetness and enhances the espresso flavor.
Espresso: Freshly brewed and cooled. Strong coffee works too if you don’t have an espresso machine.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and a silky texture to the martini.
Marshmallows: The star of the recipe! Regular-sized marshmallows work best for toasting and garnishing.
Ice: To chill the martini and get that smooth texture.
Graham Cracker Crumbs (optional): For rimming the glass and enhancing the s’mores vibe.

If you’re looking to switch things up, you can use flavored vodka (like vanilla or caramel) for an extra layer of taste. For a dairy-free option, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative.

Equipment Needed

Espresso Machine or Coffee Maker: For brewing fresh espresso.
Cocktail Shaker: Essential for mixing and chilling the ingredients.
Martini Glasses: To serve the drink in style.
Kitchen Torch: For toasting the marshmallows. If you don’t have one, use your oven’s broiler or a gas stovetop.
Measuring Jigger: Ensures precise measurements for the perfect balance of flavors.

Pro tip: If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, a mason jar with a lid can work in a pinch. For the torch, I recommend investing in a small but reliable one—it’s a game-changer for cocktails and desserts alike!

Preparation Method

Prepare the glasses: If you’re using graham cracker crumbs, crush them finely and spread them on a plate. Moisten the rim of your martini glass with water or a bit of Kahlúa, then dip the rim into the crumbs to coat evenly.
Brew the espresso: Make a shot (about 1 oz / 30ml) of espresso and let it cool to room temperature. If you’re short on time, you can pop it in the fridge for a few minutes.
Toast the marshmallows: Using a kitchen torch, lightly toast the marshmallows until golden brown and slightly caramelized. If you don’t have a torch, you can place them under the broiler for a minute or toast them over a gas flame. Set aside to cool slightly.
Mix the cocktail: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka, 1 oz (30ml) Kahlúa, the cooled espresso, and 0.5 oz (15ml) heavy cream. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled and frothy.
Pour and garnish: Strain the mixture into your prepared martini glass. Carefully place the toasted marshmallows on a skewer or directly on the rim of the glass for garnish.

Serve immediately and enjoy! If you’re making multiple servings, scale up the ingredients and prep all components in advance to keep the process smooth.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Cool the espresso: Hot espresso can melt the ice in your shaker too quickly, watering down the cocktail. Let it cool completely before mixing.
Shake vigorously: The secret to a creamy espresso martini is proper shaking. Don’t skimp on this step—it’s what creates the velvety texture and frothy top.
Toast with care: Marshmallows can burn quickly, so keep an eye on them while toasting. A golden-brown hue is ideal.
Use fresh ingredients: Freshly brewed espresso and high-quality vodka make all the difference in flavor.
Pre-chill the glass: Pop your martini glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving to keep the drink extra cold.

These little tricks ensure your espresso martini is consistently smooth, creamy, and delicious every time you make it.

Variations & Adaptations

Non-Alcoholic Version: Swap the vodka and Kahlúa for coffee concentrate or a mix of brewed espresso and vanilla syrup for a kid-friendly mocktail.
Seasonal Twist: Add a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired flavor, or garnish with a peppermint candy cane for a festive holiday version.
Dietary Adaptations: Use plant-based cream like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option, or opt for sugar-free syrups if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Flavor Boost: Add a dash of chocolate or hazelnut liqueur for an extra indulgent layer.

One variation I love is swapping the toasted marshmallow for a brûléed banana slice—it adds a caramelized fruitiness that pairs beautifully with the coffee flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This creamy toasted marshmallow espresso martini is best served chilled, straight out of the shaker. The frothy top and toasted marshmallow garnish make it look irresistible!

Serving Temperature: Serve ice-cold for maximum refreshment. If you’re hosting, prepare the glasses ahead of time and chill them for an added touch.
Pairings: This cocktail pairs wonderfully with chocolate desserts, biscotti, or even a savory cheese platter.
Storage: If you have leftover mix, store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake again with ice before serving.
Reheating Marshmallow Garnish: If you’re making the garnish in advance, you can lightly re-toast the marshmallows right before serving.

While this cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, proper preparation and storage can make serving a breeze, especially for larger gatherings.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Calories: 220
Fat: 5g (from the cream)
Carbs: 12g (from the Kahlúa and marshmallows)
Protein: 1g

While this isn’t exactly a health drink, the espresso provides a little caffeine boost, and the cream offers a satisfying richness. Opting for lighter or plant-based substitutes can reduce the calorie count if desired. Just remember, it’s a treat to be savored!

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably delightful about this creamy toasted marshmallow espresso martini. From the first sip to the last, it’s a beautiful blend of bold espresso, smooth cream, and sweet marshmallow magic. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this cocktail is guaranteed to impress and bring a little joy to your evening.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Share your thoughts in the comments below, or tag me on social media with your creations. And don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it—add a new garnish, adjust the sweetness, or try a different liqueur. Cheers to cozy, delicious moments!

Happy sipping!

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso?

Yes! Mix 1 teaspoon of instant coffee with 1 oz (30ml) hot water to create a quick espresso substitute.

What’s the best way to toast marshmallows without a torch?

If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can use your oven’s broiler or carefully toast them over a gas stovetop flame.

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

You can prepare the espresso mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice just before serving.

Is there a way to make this less sweet?

Absolutely! Reduce the Kahlúa to 0.5 oz (15ml) or use an unsweetened coffee liqueur instead.

What’s the best way to serve this cocktail at a party?

Prepare the glasses and garnishes ahead of time, brew a larger batch of espresso, and set up a cocktail station for guests to mix and serve themselves.

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