WHITE CHOCOLATE ESPRESSO-VODKA MARTINIS

White Chocolate Espresso-Vodka Martinis image

Provided by Giada De Laurentiis

Time 8h35m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 7

6 ounces white chocolate, such as Lindt, chopped, plus more for grating, optional
1/3 cup vodka, chilled in the freezer
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups boiling water
3 tablespoons instant espresso powder
3/4 cup half-and-half

Steps:

Combine the water and espresso powder in a large measuring cup. Whisk to dissolve. Set aside to cool. Pour into 2 ice cube trays. Freeze until solid, at least 8 hours. Transfer the ice cubes to a resealable plastic bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 days.
Combine the half-and-half and white chocolate in a small bowl. Place over a small pan of barely simmering water. Stir until the chocolate has melted and the mixture is smooth, about 5 minutes. Cool the chocolate mixture, whisking occasionally. Scrape the chocolate mixture into a blender. Add the vodka, sugar, vanilla and espresso ice cubes. Blend until smooth, at least 1 minute.
Pour into 4 large martini glasses. Garnish with grated white chocolate, if using, and serve.