The Dubai Chocolate Martini is a sweet and creamy cocktail with a hint of Middle Eastern style. It starts with vanilla vodka and chocolate liqueur, which give the drink a smooth and rich base. Pistachio cream adds a nutty flavor, while milk or almond milk softens the mix and makes it silky. What makes this martini special is its presentation, with the rim coated in pistachio cream and toasted kataifi, a crunchy shredded pastry. With its bold look and rich taste, the Dubai Chocolate Martini is perfect as an after-dinner treat or a standout drink for special occasions.
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Tasting Notes
The Dubai Chocolate Martini is rich, nutty, and indulgent, designed to highlight dessert flavors with a luxurious twist. Vanilla vodka provides a smooth base with a hint of sweetness that complements the chocolate liqueur’s depth. Pistachio cream adds a layer of nuttiness that softens the chocolate while bringing balance. Milk or almond milk rounds out the cocktail with creaminess, keeping it light but satisfying. The rim of pistachio cream and toasted kataifi dough provides both flavor and crunch, while chocolate sauce enhances aroma and presentation. Each sip offers a decadent mix of sweet, nutty, and chocolate notes.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare the Dubai Chocolate Martini, you’ll need a few essentials. A cocktail shaker is required to properly chill and blend the vodka, liqueur, pistachio cream, and milk into a smooth, cohesive drink. A bar spoon helps measure the pistachio cream accurately, while a double strainer ensures the cocktail pours cleanly into the glass. A nonstick pan is needed to gently toast the kataifi dough until golden brown. For presentation, a martini glass is ideal, showcasing the chocolate sauce swirl, pistachio rim, and kataifi garnish. With these tools, you’ll create a cocktail that is both polished and visually striking.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 1.5 oz chocolate liqueur
- 1 bar spoon of pistachio cream
- 2 oz milk (or almond milk)
- Chocolate sauce for rimming
- Pistachio cream for rimming
- Kataifi (shredded philo dough) toasted for garnish
Instructions
- Add the Kataifi dough to a pan and gently break up the pieces. Turn the heat low and slowly toast the kataifi until it is golden brown
- Drizzle chocolate sauce around the inside of a glass. Coat the rim with pistachio cream and dip into the toasted Kataifi.
- For the cocktail, add vanilla vodka, chocolate liqueur, pistachio cream, and milk to a shaker. Add ice and vigorously shake
- Double strain into the martini glass being careful not to disturb the rim. Top with more toasted Kataifi dough and serve immediately
Pro Tips
- Toast the kataifi slowly to avoid burning while achieving a golden finish.
- Use high-quality chocolate liqueur for richer flavor.
- Double strain to keep the cocktail smooth and free of ice shards.
- Almond milk provides a lighter, nutty twist compared to dairy.
- Garnish generously with kataifi for added texture and presentation.
- Chill your martini glass before preparation for a longer-lasting cold drink.
- Swirl chocolate sauce inside the glass for extra visual appeal.
- Use fresh pistachio cream for the best flavor in both the rim and cocktail.
When to Serve
The Dubai Chocolate Martini is best suited for dessert service or special celebrations where a striking cocktail doubles as a sweet course. Its rich flavor makes it ideal after dinner, either paired with lighter desserts like fruit or served as a stand-alone treat. It works beautifully for holiday gatherings, romantic occasions, or elegant dinner parties where presentation matters. The toasted kataifi garnish makes it particularly suited to events that call for something unique and memorable. Whether enjoyed as a sweet indulgence at the end of the evening or served to impress guests, this cocktail delivers flavor and flair.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Vanilla Vodka: Absolut Vanilia, Grey Goose La Vanille, Smirnoff Vanilla
- Chocolate Liqueur: Godiva, Mozart, Marie Brizard
Similar Cocktails
- Boozy Frozen Caramel Hot Chocolate
- Bananas Foster Martini
- Mudslide
- Brandy Alexander
- Raspberry Wine Float
Ingredients
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 1.5 oz chocolate liqueur
- 1 bar spoon of pistachio cream
- 2 oz milk or almond milk
- Chocolate sauce for rimming
- Pistachio cream for rimming
- Kataifi shredded philo dough toasted for garnish
Instructions
- Add the Kataifi dough to a pan and gently break up the pieces. Turn the heat low and slowly toast the kataifi until it is golden brown
- Drizzle chocolate sauce around the inside of a glass. Coat the rim with pistachio cream and dip into the toasted Kataifi.
- For the cocktail, add vanilla vodka, chocolate liqueur, pistachio cream, and milk to a shaker. Add ice and vigorously shake
- Double strain into the martini glass being careful not to disturb the rim. Top with more toasted Kataifi dough and serve immediately
Video
Notes
Pro Tips
- Toast kataifi slowly to avoid burning; it should be golden, not dark brown.
- For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk.
- Chill the martini glass beforehand to keep the cocktail colder longer.