Agave Velvet Espresso Martini

Agave Velvet Espresso Martini

This is the espresso martini with the volume turned up on texture. Agave syrup instead of simple syrup gives it a rounder, silkier body, and SWOL Añejo layers in oak and vanilla. The result drinks like velvet: creamy foam on top, roasted coffee and agave underneath. It is the same three-minute shake as a classic espresso martini, just sweeter and smoother. Serve it as a dessert in a glass.

INGREDIENTS
  • 1 1/2 oz SWOL Añejo Tequila (the hero; aged agave spirit that carries the coffee)
  • 1 oz cold brew coffee or espresso (cold brew for smoother, espresso for bolder)
  • 1/2 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlua or Mr Black)
  • 1/4 oz agave syrup (the swap that makes it velvet; rounder than simple syrup)
  • Garnish: 3 coffee beans or a dusting of cinnamon
HOW TO PREPARE
  1. Dry-shake SWOL Añejo, coffee, coffee liqueur, and agave syrup without ice for a few seconds to emulsify.
  2. Add ice and shake hard again for a thick, velvet foam.
  3. Double-strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
  4. Garnish with three coffee beans or a dusting of cinnamon or cocoa.
Style of Glass to use
  • Martini Glass
Garnishes
  • Coffee Beans

Why agave makes it velvet?

Agave syrup is thicker and rounder than simple syrup, so it coats the palate and softens the coffee's edge. Paired with the double shake, it produces the creamy, velvet mouthfeel this drink is named for, without any dairy.

How it differs from a standard tequila espresso martini?

The classic uses simple syrup and leans crisp and coffee-forward. This version swaps in agave for a sweeter, silkier, more dessert-like drink. If you want the textbook build, see the tequila espresso martini; if you want richer and smoother, stay here.

The velvet foam trick

Foam is everything on an espresso martini. Use fresh espresso or good cold brew, dry-shake first, then shake with ice. The dry shake whips air into the drink before the ice dilutes it, giving you a taller, longer-lasting crema.

Make it a mocktail?

Skip the tequila and coffee liqueur, use extra cold brew with a splash of vanilla, and add the agave for body. Shake the same way for a creamy, zero-proof velvet coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an agave espresso martini?

An espresso martini sweetened with agave syrup and built on aged tequila for a creamier, rounder drink.

Can I use agave instead of simple syrup in an espresso martini?

Yes, and it makes the drink silkier and slightly less sharp.

What makes it velvet?

Agave's thicker body plus a double shake create a creamy mouthfeel with no dairy.

Cold brew or espresso?

Cold brew is smoother, espresso gives more crema and punch.

How is it different from a regular tequila espresso martini?

It uses agave instead of simple syrup and drinks sweeter and creamier.

What glass is best?

A chilled martini glass or coupe.

Can I make it dairy-free and creamy?

It already is; the foam comes from the shake, not cream.

Agave Velvet Espresso Martini TIPS

Double Shake for Creamy Foam

Try a “double shake” — first shake all ingredients without ice (dry shake) to help emulsify, then shake again with ice. This creates a rich, velvety foam on top, similar to a perfect espresso crema. For garnish, dust a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder over the foam for a warm, inviting aroma that elevates the coffee notes.

MADE WITH

SWOL Anejo Tequila Limited Release (750Ml)

750 ML

$124.99

SWOL Anejo Tequila Limited Release is an extremely limited edition; a special release of just 10,000 bottles. Each hand-numbered bottle has a peel-off iron patch which is designed by Los Angeles-based artist Rise Work.

Combining ancient and modern techniques and a deep love and passion for Authentic Tequila, SWOL Tequila comes from Mexico. When two friends journeyed to Mexico...

- +

View More Recipes

Caramel Apple Tequila Flip
Caramel Apple Tequila Flip
View Recipe
Cinnamon Sugar Sleigh Ride
Cinnamon Sugar Sleigh Ride
View Recipe
Pecan Pie Manhattan
Pecan Pie Manhattan
View Recipe