Happy National Espresso Martini Day!

Celebrate with an Upcycled Coffee Cocktail 

At Groundwork, we think espresso should be celebrated every day, as should earth-friendly consumption. The two can go hand-in-hand on this holiday by mixing up the classic espresso martini recipe with upcycled coffee grounds! 

Some experienced mixologists turn spent coffee grounds into fancy oils and extracts, but thanks to the knowledge-sharing powers of social media, anyone can make a coffee liqueur at home.

Here’s my version inspired by @glowwithella and @plantyou:

First, make the upcycled coffee liquor at least 1 hour (preferably a few days) in advance: 

Coffee Liqueur (4 servings)

• 8 fluid ounces alcohol of choice (I used Legendario Domingo mezcal that’s been infused with vanilla leftover from my Mezcal Madagascar Vanilla Extract) 
• 2+ tbsp spent coffee grounds (I used grounds leftover from making a mouthwatering pour-over of Sundew Seasonal Select!)
• Glass jar 

1. Brew the coffee and let the spent grounds dry out for at least a few minutes. 
2. Combine alcohol with the spent coffee grounds in a jar. 
3. Allow coffee grounds to steep for at least 1 hour, or up to 1 week. The coarser the grind, the longer it will need to steep.
4. Drain and compost the leftover coffee grounds. 
5. Store the liquor in the fridge for up to 1 month.

Coffee cocktail (4 servings) 

• 8 oz coffee liqueur
• 2+ tbsp maple syrup, to taste
• 1 cup crushed ice
• A cocktail shaker or glass jar 
• 4 martini glasses 
• Optional: 
• a dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder
• a dash of vanilla 
• ~12 coffee beans 

Instructions

1. Combine coffee liqueur, maple syrup, optional vanilla, and ice in a cocktail shaker or jar.
2. Shake for 1 minute to get a nice foam. 
3. Serve in martini glasses with a dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder. 
4. Finish by floating 3 coffee beans on top. 
5. Enjoy slowly (it’s strong!)

Cheers to sustainability!