There’s something truly delightful about sipping a rich, velvety drink that tastes like an indulgent espresso martini—without the alcohol. This Creamy Espresso Martini Mocktail Recipe brings all that luxurious flavor and creamy texture, perfect for when you want to treat yourself or impress friends with zero booze. Trust me, it’s worth every shake and stir.

A tall clear glass with vertical ridges holds a two-layer coffee dessert. The bottom layer is light brown and smooth, while the top layer is darker brown with fine cocoa powder dusted evenly across the surface. Three dark coffee beans are placed in the center on top. In the background, another glass with the same dessert and a small white bowl filled with coffee beans sit on a wooden surface with cocoa powder scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Espresso Martini Mocktail Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Creamy Espresso Martini Mocktail Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Creamy Espresso Martini Mocktail Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I first tried making espresso marttails without alcohol when I was hosting a cozy brunch, and honestly, I was blown away by how simple yet sophisticated this creamy mocktail feels. It’s those little moments where you want a pick-me-up that’s a little fancy, and this recipe hits the spot every time.

Super creamy and smooth: The use of creamer or oat milk adds a luscious texture that feels indulgent but light.
Customizable sweetness: Using cinnamon simple syrup means you get a warm, cozy sweetness that you can adjust or swap out entirely.
Quick and fuss-free: You’ll have this shaken and ready in about five minutes—perfect for last-minute entertaining.
Elegant presentation: A dusting of cacao powder and coffee bean garnish make it look like a drink you’d order in a swanky bar.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this mocktail pulls double duty, not just in flavor but texture and aroma. I’ve found the combo of cinnamon and cacao with espresso creates a warm, rich experience that feels just right for any time of day. Here’s why I’ve chosen each one:

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl filled with creamy oat milk, a small white ceramic bowl of amber cinnamon simple syrup, a small white ceramic bowl containing freshly brewed dark espresso, a neat handful of clear ice cubes, a small white ceramic bowl with fine brown cacao powder, and three glossy dark brown coffee beans arranged next to each other, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Creamer (cream or milk): I used oat milk creamer that adds a hint of sweetness and creaminess without overpowering the espresso flavor.
Cinnamon Simple Syrup: This syrup gives a comforting spice edge—it’s easy to make at home and you can control the sweetness.
Freshly brewed espresso: The bold coffee punch is the superstar here, so using freshly brewed espresso makes all the difference.
Ice: Adds chill and helps create the beautiful frothy texture when shaken vigorously.
Cacao powder: Just a dusting at the end brings a subtle chocolate bitterness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Coffee beans for garnish: They’re simple but classic—plus they visually signal “espresso martini” immediately.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking this drink depending on the mood or the crowd. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite creamers or swap in other flavored syrups like vanilla or hazelnut if cinnamon isn’t your jam. You’ll find what clicks for you and your friends.

Decaf Version: I often make this with decaf espresso late in the evening so I can enjoy the flavor without staying up all night.
Vegan Twist: My go-to is oat milk creamer, but almond or coconut milk work beautifully too for different flavor profiles.
Sweetness Levels: You can adjust the simple syrup amount or try maple syrup for an earthier taste.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Espresso Martini Mocktail Recipe

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Start by brewing a fresh shot of espresso—if you don’t have an espresso machine, a strong coffee concentrate works too. Measure out the creamer and cinnamon simple syrup so everything’s ready to go. Trust me, prepping makes the shaking step way smoother.

Step 2: Shake It Up

Pour the creamer, cinnamon simple syrup, and fresh espresso into your cocktail shaker. Add a generous handful of ice—this chills the drink and creates that dreamy foam you want. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds. I like to think of it as giving your drink a little workout—it really wakes it up!

Step 3: Get That Perfect Foam

If you want your mocktail extra frothy (and I recommend it), strain out the ice and dry shake your mixture again vigorously. This step takes it from good to bar-quality creamy foam—totally worth the extra shake.

Step 4: Serve With Style

Strain the creamy concoction into a coupe glass. Dust the top with cacao powder for a subtle chocolate kick, then garnish with three coffee beans. They’re an elegant touch and make it feel like a special treat—like you went out of your way to impress, even if you just stayed home.

Top Tip

From my many attempts perfecting this mocktail, I’ve learned a few tricks that really make the difference between a so-so drink and one you’ll want to make again and again:

Use Fresh Espresso: The flavor is unbeatable when espresso is freshly brewed—stale coffee just won’t do.
Shake Vigorously: Don’t be shy with your shaker—the more vigorous, the better the froth and the chill.
Dry Shake for Foam: Straining the ice and giving it a second shake without ice makes the texture so creamy and foamy, like a pro bartender.
Quality Milk or Creamer: Using a tasty creamer, like oat milk, elevates the smoothness—you’ll notice the difference immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Espresso Martini Mocktail Recipe

Creamy Espresso Mocktail - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I’m a simple garnisher at heart—three coffee beans placed on top always feel classic. But sometimes, I sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon or a couple of shaved dark chocolate curls for a little flair, especially when serving guests. It’s these finishing touches that make your mocktail feel like a celebration in a glass.

Side Dishes

This mocktail pairs wonderfully with sweet bites. I often serve it alongside biscotti, chocolate-dipped shortbread, or even a handful of roasted nuts. It’s perfect for brunch or afternoon coffee time when you want that little bit of indulgence without alcohol.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try rimming the glass with finely crushed cinnamon sugar or cocoa powder. I’ve also used vintage coupe glasses to give a nostalgic, elegant vibe that got lots of compliments. Lighting some candles or playing jazzy background music turns this simple mocktail into a full sensory experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I recommend enjoying this mocktail fresh, but if you must save some, keep it refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 24 hours. The frothy texture won’t hold up, so give it a good stir before serving, although it won't be quite the same as freshly shaken.

Freezing

I haven’t tried freezing this mocktail because the texture changes drastically when thawed—creamer and espresso don’t freeze well together. I’d suggest prepping fresh each time if you want the best flavor and mouthfeel.

Reheating

This mocktail is best served chilled, so reheating isn’t really ideal. If you do have leftovers, enjoy them cold or at room temperature after a quick stir. Warm coffee drinks are lovely, but this one’s magic comes from the cold creamy foam.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use regular milk instead of creamer?

Absolutely! Regular milk works just fine, but for the richest, creamiest texture I recommend whole milk or a milk-based creamer. Plant-based creamers like oat milk also bring a wonderful sweetness and smoothness.

How do I make cinnamon simple syrup at home?

It’s super easy! Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan, add cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon, bring to a simmer until sugar dissolves, then let it steep as it cools. Strain out solids before using.

Can I use decaf coffee for this mocktail?

Yes, you can! Decaf espresso or coffee works great if you want the flavor without the caffeine kick. It still mixes beautifully with the creamer and cinnamon syrup.

What does the dry shake step do?

Dry shaking (shaking without ice) after the initial shake helps to create a richer, more velvety foam on top of your mocktail. It’s a small extra step that makes a noticeable difference in texture.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Espresso Martini Mocktail Recipe holds a special place in my heart as the perfect anytime indulgence that doesn’t tip the scale on alcohol. It’s the kind of drink that feels fancy but is simple enough to whip up on a whim. You really can’t go wrong giving this a try—you might just find yourself making it your new go-to when you want something creamy, caffeinated, and utterly comforting.