Hello to all you cocktail aficionados! I have been very remiss in my duty to provide you all with consistent cocktail recipes in 2021 and for that, I apologize. But I am here to save you from falling asleep on New Year’s Eve with a new recipe, the Espresso Martini.

Are you at a point in your life where staying up until midnight on New Year’s Eve is no longer a must? Yeah, me too. And yet… there are invitations and opportunities to ring in the new year, even in 2021 when Covid cases are again on the rise. People of all ages are gathering together again, mostly in small groups, to celebrate the holidays. And like it or not, you will be considered the pathetic loser of the group if you are the first to leave. Even if it IS at 10:30pm and later than you usually stay out.

So if you want to stick around until midnight at the neighborhood potluck or your brother-in-law’s family party, I have an eye-opening cocktail to keep you awake. It’s the perfect blend of caffeine and alcohol. Please don’t blame me if you are wide awake at 3am. You and you alone have to decide whether you want to be cool or get your shuteye. You can nap on New Year’s Day.

Espresso Martini

1-2 ounces vanilla vodka

1 oz Kahlua

2 oz strong coffee or espresso

Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a martini glass. Top with whipped cream if desired.

Above all else, please be safe this holiday season and drink responsibly. I promise more recipes in 2022- Happy New Year!