Surely Mr. Poe could have summoned the rare and radiant maiden Lenore, with this stunning Blackberry Espresso Martini. I have borrowed a cream float trick from the famous Buena Vista in San Francisco, but incorporated blackberry syrup to reinforce the fruit forward flavor in this riff on an espresso martini. Be warned, if you brew your coffee strong enough, you may still be awake at midnight to welcome your long lost spirits this All Hallows Eve.
Nevermore!
Once Upon a Midnight Dreary
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Hawthorne Strainer
- Saucepan
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Bar spoon / teaspoon
- Spatula
- Frother or whisk
Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1.5 oz Espresso or Strong Coffee
- 1 oz Blackberry Syrup
- 0.5 oz Crème de Cassis
- Float Blackberry Cream on top, appx. ¼ inch thick
- Garnish with Whole Coffee Beans
Instructions
- Add Vodka, Espresso, Blackberry Syrup and Crème de Cassis to a cocktail shaker
- Add ice to shaker and shake until well chilled
- Strain cocktail into a martini or small coupe glass
- Slowly pour Blackberry Cream over the back of the spoon, just above the cocktail
- Garnish with whole coffee beans, or a glitter/sugar dipped blackberry
Blackberry Syrup
Ingredients
- 8 oz Fresh or Frozen Blackberries
- 2 cups Water
- 1 cup Sugar
- 2 tbsp Brandy or Cognac
- 0.5 tsp Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a saucepan over medium-high heat
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer (medium-low)
- Simmer for 15 minutes, stir occasionally and use a spatula to break up the berries
- Remove from heat and strain into an airtight container
- Let cool for use in cocktails
- Store in refrigerator
Blackberry Cream Float
Ingredients
- 4 oz Whipping Cream
- 2 oz Blackberry Syrup (recipe above)
- 1 pinch Salt
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a clean/dry cocktail shaker or mixing glass
- Froth for about 20 seconds (whisking will take longer), till thickened, maintain a pourable consistency
- Use immediately or store in refrigerator
