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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Strain and Top: Strain the mixture into the chilled glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Top with sparkling water for a light fizz.
- 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.
- 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.