Espresso Martini Rhubarb Compote drizzled over vanilla ice cream

Rhubarb compote

espresso martini rhubarb compote

By:

GuideMyRecipe

Published:

27 Oct 2025

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Remember that time I tried to make rhubarb pie for the first time? Oh, it was a disaster! The crust was too thick, the filling was far too sour. But it sparked something in me – a determination to make rhubarb sing. Fast forward a few years, and I'm obsessed with finding new ways to use it. One evening, while sipping on an espresso martini (purely for research, of course!), the idea struck me: why not combine the two? The result? Espresso Martini Rhubarb Compote. It's tangy, boozy, and caffeinated—everything you didn't know you needed.
Close-up shot of simmering rhubarb compote in a saucepan
This compote isn't just about throwing ingredients together; it's about creating a flavor symphony. The bitterness of the espresso balances the tartness of the rhubarb, while the vodka adds a kick that will wake up your taste buds. I like to serve mine warm over vanilla ice cream, but it’s equally divine spooned over yogurt, stirred into oatmeal, or even used as a filling for crepes. Trust me; this recipe is a keeper. I think you would enjoy this one.
Espresso Martini Rhubarb Compote being spooned over a bowl of yogurt

Required Equipments

  • Saucepan
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Zester
  • Espresso Machine or Moka Pot
  • Knife

Espresso Martini Rhubarb Compote: Frequently Asked Questions

Espresso Martini Rhubarb Compote

Infuse the zing of rhubarb compote with the robust coffee notes of an espresso martini for a dessert experience that's both comforting and unexpectedly vibrant. Perfect as a topping or enjoyed on its own, this Espresso Martini Rhubarb Compote offers a playful twist on traditional flavors.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rhubarb: Wash 1 pound of rhubarb stalks thoroughly. Trim off the ends and cut the stalks into 1/2-inch pieces. Consistency in size helps ensure even cooking.
  2. Macerate the Rhubarb (Optional): In a medium bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and the zest of 1 orange. Let this mixture sit for about 30 minutes. Maceration draws out the rhubarb’s juices and infuses it with citrus flavor. You can skip this step if you’re short on time, but it does enhance the final flavor.
  3. Brew the Espresso: Brew a double shot (about 2 ounces) of strong espresso. You can use an espresso machine or a Moka pot. Freshly brewed espresso is best, but strongly brewed coffee will work in a pinch. Let it cool slightly.
  4. Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan: In a medium saucepan, combine the macerated rhubarb (or just the rhubarb and sugar if not macerating), cooled espresso, 2 ounces of vodka (or more, if you're feeling adventurous), and a pinch of salt. I sometimes even add a splash of orange juice if i'm feeling extra tangy today.
  5. Simmer the Compote: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rhubarb is tender and the compote has thickened slightly. The rhubarb should break down easily when pressed with the back of a spoon. There's no need to cook more.
  6. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the compote and add more sugar if needed. Remember that the rhubarb will become less tart as it cooks, so adjust accordingly. The amount of sugar you need will depend on the sweetness of your rhubarb and your personal preference.
  7. Add Finishing Touches: Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter (for richness) and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for aroma). These additions elevate the flavor of the compote and give it a luxurious mouthfeel. My mom loves this, and I'm sure your mom would too.
  8. Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the compote cool slightly. As it cools, it will thicken further. Transfer the compote to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It's delicious both warm and cold.

📝 Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
  • If you don't have vodka, you can substitute with rum or brandy.
  • Serve warm over vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 180 kcal

Protein: 1 g

Fat: 8 g

Carbohydrates: 25 g

Fiber: 2 g

Calcium: 20 mg

The best dishes are those that tell a story, blending flavors with memories to create something truly unforgettable.

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