After a long week that seemed to drag on forever, I found myself craving a little pick-me-up that would take my evenings from mundane to marvelous. Imagine rich dark rum mingling with the robust flavor of freshly brewed espresso—it’s a match made in cocktail heaven! That’s when I discovered the glorious Espresso Rumtini, a twist on the classic espresso martini that combines the deep notes of rum with the invigorating essence of coffee.
Perfect for cozy evenings with friends or as a sophisticated after-dinner treat, this cocktail is both a delight for the senses and incredibly easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll impress your guests and elevate your nights at home. So, whether you’re looking to fancy up your weekend gathering or simply want to savor a delicious drink while unwinding, let’s dive into making this delightful Espresso Rumtini together!

Why is Espresso Rumtini a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The pairing of dark rum and freshly brewed espresso creates a cocktail that’s complex yet smooth, sure to awaken your taste buds.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients, this recipe can be mixed up in minutes—perfect for those busy evenings when relaxation is key.
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your friends with a sophisticated drink that caters to coffee lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Versatile Sip: Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s for a cozy night in or a vibrant gathering, the Espresso Rumtini fits right in.
Unique Twist: Elevate classic flavors with this twist on the traditional espresso martini, making it a memorable choice for your next get-together.
Espresso Rumtini Ingredients
For the Cocktail
• 2 ounces dark rum – for a rich, deep flavor that complements the espresso beautifully.
• 1 ounce espresso – freshly brewed and cooled for the best taste and aroma to elevate your Espresso Rumtini.
• 1/2 ounce coffee liqueur – adds an extra layer of coffee goodness, enhancing the overall complexity.
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup – balances the bitterness of the coffee and dark rum for a sweeter finish.
For Garnish
• Coffee beans – use these for an elegant touch that also hints at the coffee flavor within.
• Grated chocolate – a decadent option that adds a luxurious finish to your cocktail presentation.
How to Make Espresso Rumtini
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Brew your espresso—start by brewing one ounce of fresh espresso. Allow it to cool completely so your cocktail stays chilled and refreshing.
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Combine ingredients—add 2 ounces of dark rum, your cooled espresso, 1/2 ounce of coffee liqueur, and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup into a cocktail shaker for an irresistible blend.
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Shake vigorously—secure the shaker lid and give it a good shake for about 15 seconds until the mixture is well combined and chilled to perfection.
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Strain into a glass—pour your exquisite mixture into a chilled cocktail glass, taking care to leave any remaining ice in the shaker.
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Garnish with flair—finish off your Espresso Rumtini by delicately placing a few coffee beans or a sprinkle of grated chocolate on top for that extra touch of elegance.
Optional: Drizzle chocolate syrup on the inside of the glass for a sweet surprise.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options
Espresso Rumtini is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can brew and cool your espresso up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the robust flavor to develop. Additionally, you can measure out the dark rum, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup and store them together in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the cooled espresso in a cocktail shaker, shake well, and strain into a glass. This way, you’ll enjoy an effortless, delicious cocktail experience that’s just as satisfying as preparing it fresh, all while saving precious time during busy evenings!
Expert Tips for Espresso Rumtini
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Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality dark rum and freshly brewed espresso. This ensures your Espresso Rumtini is rich and flavorful, avoiding any watery taste.
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Chill Your Glass: Pop your cocktail glass in the freezer or fill it with ice while you mix. A chilled glass keeps your cocktail cool and refreshing longer.
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Shake Well: Don’t rush the shaking process! Shake vigorously for at least 15 seconds to achieve the perfect frothy texture and chill the mixture thoroughly.
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Avoid Over-Sweetening: While simple syrup balances the flavors, start with less and adjust to your taste. Too much can overpower the espresso’s robustness.
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Experiment with Garnishes: Beyond coffee beans or grated chocolate, feel free to get creative. Try adding a twist of orange peel for a citrusy kick or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.
Espresso Rumtini Variations
Get ready to put your unique spin on this delicious cocktail and awaken new flavors with every sip!
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Vanilla Twist: Add a splash of vanilla extract or use vanilla-flavored coffee liqueur for a smooth sweetness. This little addition brings a delightful warmth to the drink.
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Nutty Flavor: Swap the dark rum for spiced rum or hazelnut liqueur to introduce a subtle nutty taste. It’s like a warm hug in a glass.
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Dairy-Free: Replace simple syrup with agave nectar for a vegan-friendly alternative. This provides a floral note that enhances the cocktail beautifully.
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Iced Delight: Instead of serving it chilled, pour the Espresso Rumtini over ice for a refreshing summer drink. This creates a different texture that can be perfect for warm evenings.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the mix for a playful heat that surprises the palate. Just a pinch can elevate the entire drink experience.
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Mocha Magic: Mix in a teaspoon of cocoa powder along with the other ingredients for a rich mocha-like flavor. The chocolatey notes blend seamlessly with the coffee, making it indulgent.
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Festive Touch: Garnish with a peppermint stick or a sprinkle of nutmeg during the holidays for a seasonal twist. This adds an aromatic charm and makes it a holiday favorite!
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Coconut Infusion: Use coconut rum instead of dark rum to create a tropical version of the Espresso Rumtini. This will transport your senses to a sunny beach with every sip.
What to Serve with Espresso Rumtini?
Elevate your Espresso Rumtini experience with delectable pairings that will tantalize your taste buds and create a perfect evening ambiance.
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Chocolate Mousse: A rich, creamy dessert that harmonizes beautifully with the cocktail’s coffee notes, offering a luxurious finale.
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Savory Cheese Platter: Rich cheeses like brie or aged gouda provide a delightful contrast in flavor, enhancing the smoothness of dark rum.
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Light Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes and basil on crusty bread bring a bright, refreshing element, creating a perfect balance with the espresso.
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Coffee Flavored Dessert Bars: Intensify the coffee experience with these sweet treats, amplifying the deep flavors of your Espresso Rumtini.
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Coconut Macaroons: Chewy and slightly sweet, these cookies add an exciting texture while complementing the cocktail’s rich profile.
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Minty Mojito: For a refreshing contrast, this light and zesty drink helps cleanse the palate in between sips of your cocktail.
A thoughtfully curated pairing can transform your drink into a full-blown experience, inviting friends or family to join in on the indulgence. Enjoy the sensory journey!
How to Store and Freeze Espresso Rumtini
Fridge: Store any leftover Espresso Rumtini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Re-shake before serving to restore its delightful frothiness.
Freezer: For optimal flavor, it’s best to enjoy this cocktail fresh. However, if you must store it, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but note that the texture may change.
Serving Tips: When you’re ready to serve from the fridge or freezer, pour it into a chilled glass and garnish with fresh coffee beans or chocolate for a touch of elegance.
Garnish Storage: Keep garnishes like coffee beans and grated chocolate separate at room temperature; they can last for several weeks to retain their flavor and texture.

Espresso Rumtini Recipe FAQs
What kind of coffee should I use for the Espresso Rumtini?
Absolutely! Freshly brewed espresso is key for the best flavor. Aim for high-quality coffee beans, and if you can, brew it right before making your cocktail for that rich aroma and taste. Avoid instant coffee, as it won’t give you the same depth of flavor.
How long can I store leftover Espresso Rumtini?
You can store any leftover Espresso Rumtini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to give it a gentle shake before serving again to bring back that delightful frothiness!
Can I freeze Espresso Rumtini?
While it’s best to enjoy your Espresso Rumtini fresh, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Keep in mind that texture might change a bit, so when you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge and then re-shake to incorporate any separation.
What should I do if my Espresso Rumtini is too sweet?
No worries! If your cocktail turns out too sweet, you can balance it by adding a splash of more espresso or even a teaspoon of fresh coffee. This will enhance that robust coffee flavor while mellowing out the sweetness.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Espresso Rumtini?
Yes! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, make sure to check that all ingredients (especially the rum and coffee liqueur) are suitable for those with alcohol sensitivities or dietary preferences. Additionally, if you’re making this as a non-alcoholic option, replace the rum and coffee liqueur with coffee syrup and sparkling water for a delightful mocktail!
Can I use different types of rum for the Espresso Rumtini?
Very much! While dark rum is recommended for its rich flavors, you can experiment with spiced rum to add an interesting twist. Just remember that every rum type will yield a slightly different flavor profile, so pick one that resonates with your taste!

Espresso Rumtini: Your Ultimate Pick-Me-Up Cocktail Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brew your espresso—start by brewing one ounce of fresh espresso. Allow it to cool completely.
- Combine ingredients—add dark rum, cooled espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well combined and chilled.
- Strain into a glass—pour your mixture into a chilled cocktail glass, leaving any remaining ice in the shaker.
- Garnish with flair—place a few coffee beans or sprinkle of grated chocolate on top.




