Ingredients

  • Espresso: 1 shot (1 oz / 30 ml), freshly brewed and cooled
  • Mango Juice: 3 oz (90 ml), preferably pure and unsweetened
  • Vodka: 1.5 oz (45 ml)
  • Lime Juice: 0.5 oz (15 ml), freshly squeezed
  • Simple Syrup: 0.5 oz (15 ml, adjust to taste)
  • Sparkling Water: 1 oz (30 ml, for a light fizz)
  • Ice Cubes: 1 cup (or enough to fill a cocktail shaker)
  • Mango Slice: 1, for garnish
  • Coffee Beans: 2-3, for garnish (optional)
  • Lime Wheel: 1, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Jigger or measuring tool
  • Muddler (optional, for garnish prep)
  • Strainer
  • Chilled highball or rocks glass

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Espresso: Brew a single shot of espresso (1 oz) using an espresso machine or stovetop moka pot. Let it cool to room temperature to avoid melting the ice too quickly.
  2. Chill the Glass: Place your highball or rocks glass in the refrigerator or fill it with ice water for 5 minutes to chill. Discard the ice water before pouring the cocktail.
  3. Mix the Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, add ice cubes, cooled espresso, mango juice, vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the mixture.
  4. Strain and Top: Strain the mixture into the chilled glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Top with sparkling water for a light fizz.
  5. Garnish: Gently muddle a mango slice to release its aroma and place it on the rim of the glass. Optionally, add 2-3 coffee beans or a lime wheel for an elegant touch.
  6. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical-meets-bold flavors!

Tips

  • Espresso Quality: Use a high-quality espresso blend for a robust flavor that stands up to the mango’s sweetness.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mango juice first; if it’s very sweet, reduce or skip the simple syrup.
  • Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace vodka with an extra ounce of mango juice or a splash of coconut water for a mocktail.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the espresso and simple syrup in advance and store in the fridge for up to a day.

Serving Suggestion

Pair with light appetizers like shrimp ceviche or tropical fruit skewers to complement the cocktail’s vibrant flavors.