Parmesan Espresso Martini
The wildly controversial TikTok cocktail that broke the internet — a classic Espresso Martini topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Sounds bizarre, tastes incredible. The savory-sweet contrast creates an umami bomb that converts every skeptic. The most-debated viral cocktail of 2024-2025. — Crafted by Blinner with Love
Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Kahlúa
- 1 oz Fresh espresso
- 0.5 oz Simple syrup
- freshly grated Parmesan cheese (garnish) garnish
Pairs With
Serve with savory brunch dishes like smoked salmon benedict or crispy bacon—the umami of Parmesan balances beautifully with the coffee's boldness and works surprisingly well with salty breakfast proteins. Dark chocolate cake or espresso tiramisu would extend the coffee theme.
Instructions
Pull a fresh shot of espresso and let it cool slightly
Add vodka, Kahlúa, espresso, and simple syrup to a shaker
Fill with ice and shake hard for 15 seconds to build a thick foam
Strain into a chilled coupe glass
Using a microplane, grate fresh Parmesan generously over the foam
Serve immediately while the foam holds the cheese
Tips
Use Parmigiano-Reggiano, not the pre-grated kind — the real thing has the nutty, salty complexity that makes this work The espresso must be freshly pulled for proper foam — cold brew won't create the signature crema Don't knock it till you try it — the salty umami of Parmesan with coffee and sweetness is genuinely addictive