The key to this cocktail is using hot espresso—if the coffee is cold, it won’t form the “crema,” the creamy foam on top that is the drink’s signature. The three coffee beans represent health, wealth and happiness.
• 2 oz vodka
• 0.5 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
• 1 oz espresso, freshly brewed and hot
• 0.5 oz simple syrup (or to taste)
• Garnish: coffee beans
Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso and simple syrup to a shaker filled with ice and shake until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Arrange 3 coffee beans on top like petals of a flower. Serves 1.