Pumpkin Cream Espresso Martini

By CHRISTINE JOHNSON Photo by HATTIE FOOTE

What is it about the fall season that brings out the pumpkin in all of us? Is it just me, or is every coffee, muffin, creamer, and cookie now available in PUMPKIN!? This is becoming like Christmas, where we are forced to “celebrate” long before the actual season begins.

Now that I have gotten that off my chest, it’s time to be thrilled that the nasty heat and humidity have left us, and we have become the real Coronado again. The cool breezes and occasional clouds make everyone come out of their houses like zombies and scream joyfully as fall approaches. Soon, the leaves will turn, the nights will become much cooler, and we will begin to wear jackets as we ride our bikes through paradise.

October gives us so many days to celebrate. But everyone’s favorite on the calendar is HALLOWEEN! The night where adults get to dress like kids and kids get to dress like their favorite superhero, villain, or princess. And let’s not forget the free candy. Coronado takes on a character of its own on Halloween. The shops on Orange decorate their windows and open doors to the little trick-or-treaters. Endless yards are filled with Halloween décor, and front doors are happily opened to kids 3-93 looking for free sweets.

I’m going to give in to my inner pumpkin (the flavor that should ONLY be in pie) and present October drinkers with something to celebrate the season in a fancy glass. After you put your costume-clad little ones to bed, say hello to your favorite fall nightcap. Sit next to the fire pit and enjoy the Pumpkin Cream Espresso Martini.

INGREDIENTS

Martini

1.5 ounces vodka

1.5 ounces Kahlua

1.5 ounces espresso (or cold brew)

Pumpkin Cold Foam

3 tbsp. heavy cream

1 tbsp. creamer

½ tbsp. pumpkin puree

1 tsp. maple syrup

½ tsp. vanilla extract

½ tsp. pumpkin spice

MIXOLOGY

Shake the vodka, Kahlua, and espresso over ice in a cocktail shaker until foamy. Whisk heavy cream, creamer, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a short glass with a hand mixer or milk frother. Pour into a martini glass, top with cold foam, and sprinkle with pumpkin spice.