Chocolate Cherry Martini

Tonight was one of those “I want dessert, but I also want a cocktail” moods, and that’s exactly when a Chocolate Cherry Martini makes sense. The first time I made it, I was trying to copy that chocolate-covered-cherry vibe you get from fancy candy boxes, but in a glass. Once I added the cherry vodka and dark crème de cacao, the flavor was there right away. The cream and chocolate swirl just made it feel like a full-on treat.

This is a rich drink, but it’s not boring. Cherry brings brightness, dark cocoa keeps it grown-up, and the cherry vanilla syrup ties everything together so it tastes smooth and layered instead of sharp. I love this because it looks like something you’d pay for at a lounge, but you can make it at home in a few minutes. It’s a great pick for date night, holidays, Valentine’s Day, girls’ night, or anytime you want dessert-style cocktails that also look amazing in photos.

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Why You’ll Love This

Chocolate and cherry is a classic pairing for a reason. In cocktail form, it hits sweet, rich, and slightly fruity all at once. This martini feels fancy, but the steps are simple, and the garnish does a lot of the work when it comes to presentation.

• It tastes like a chocolate-covered cherry in cocktail form
• Dark crème de cacao keeps the chocolate flavor deep, not overly sweet
• The chocolate swirl makes it look restaurant-style
• Cream gives it that smooth dessert finish
• Perfect for celebrations, date nights, and holiday hosting
• Homemade chocolate-covered cherries double as garnish and snack

If you like dessert cocktails, this one is a must-try at least once.

Ingredients

This recipe is built like a dessert: a cherry base, a dark chocolate layer, and a creamy finish. The syrup adds sweetness and a hint of vanilla that makes everything taste more rounded. The chocolate sauce swirl isn’t just for looks either. You get a little chocolate aroma with every sip.

Chocolate Cherry Martini

• 1.5 oz cherry vodka
• 1.5 oz dark creme de cocoa
• .5 oz cherry vanilla syrup
• .5 oz heavy cream
• Chocolate sauce for garnish
• Dark Chocolate square
• Chocolate covered cherries for garnish

Chocolate-Covered Cherries (optional homemade garnish)

• Maraschino cherries
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 tsp coconut oil

Ingredient notes that help:

• Cherry vodka: This is the main fruit note. A good cherry vodka keeps the drink from tasting like cough syrup.
• Dark crème de cacao: Dark gives a richer cocoa flavor. If you only have regular crème de cacao, the drink will be a bit sweeter.
• Cherry vanilla syrup: Helps the cherry taste more “dessert-like” and less sharp.
• Heavy cream: Makes it smooth and creamy. Half-and-half works, but it won’t be as rich.
• Chocolate sauce: A little goes a long way. It adds aroma and helps the drink feel more like dessert.

Warning: Creamy cocktails can separate if they sit too long. This one is best served right after shaking.

Suggested Liquor Brands and Substitutions

This drink is flexible, which is great if you’re missing one piece. The key is keeping the cherry-chocolate balance and making sure the drink doesn’t get overly sweet.

• Cherry vodka: Absolut Cherrys, Smirnoff Cherry, or Three Olives Cherry are easy-to-find options that mix well.
• Dark crème de cacao: If you can find a dark version, use it for a deeper chocolate note. If you only have standard crème de cacao, reduce the syrup slightly to avoid extra sweetness.
• Cherry vanilla syrup substitute: Use cherry syrup plus a tiny splash of vanilla syrup, or add a drop of vanilla extract to cherry syrup.
• Heavy cream substitute: Half-and-half works for a lighter drink. Full-fat coconut milk works for dairy-free, but the flavor will change slightly.
• Chocolate sauce substitute: Use chocolate syrup or melted dark chocolate. Keep the amount small so it doesn’t overpower the drink.
• Shortcut garnish: Store-bought chocolate-covered cherries save time and still look great on a pick.

If you’re making this for guests, the easiest “safe” combo is a smooth cherry vodka, a dark cocoa liqueur, and real heavy cream.

Equipment and Glassware

This is a shaker martini, plus a little garnish work. You don’t need anything fancy, but having a good strainer helps keep the pour clean, especially if you’re adding chocolate sauce to the shaker.

What you’ll need:

• Martini glass
• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger or measuring cup
• Strainer (fine mesh strainer is optional)
• Bar spoon (or teaspoon)
• Small plate or spoon for chocolate sauce swirl
• Microplane or grater (for chocolate curls), optional but helpful
• Cocktail picks (for cherries)

Glass tip: Chill your martini glass for a few minutes. It helps the drink stay thick and cold.

How to Make It

This cocktail is simple once you prep your glass. The swirl is the “wow” moment, and it takes less time than people think. Shake hard to chill and get the texture nice and smooth.

1. Add ingredients to the shaker.
   Add cherry vodka, dark crème de cacao, cherry vanilla syrup, heavy cream, and a small bar spoon of chocolate sauce to your shaker.
2. Add ice and shake.
   Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 10 to 15 seconds, until very cold.
3. Create the chocolate swirl.
   Grab a martini glass and drizzle chocolate sauce inside. Rotate the glass slowly to create a swirl pattern along the inside.
4. Strain into the glass.
   Strain the cocktail into the martini glass. For the cleanest look, double strain through a fine mesh strainer.
5. Top with dark chocolate curls.
   Shave dark chocolate curls over the top using a grater or microplane.
6. Garnish with chocolate-covered cherries.
   Add 3 chocolate-covered cherries to a cocktail pick and rest it along one side of the rim.
7. Serve immediately.
   Enjoy while it’s cold, creamy, and perfectly mixed.

For the chocolate covered cherries:

Instructions:

1. Dry off the maraschino cherries with a towel or paper towel. Ensure that they are as dry as possible. 
2. In a microwave safe dish, mix 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and a teaspoon of coconut oil. Place this in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute and stir until you get a smooth chocolate.You can also use the stovetop to melt the chocolate as well.
3. Grab a baking tray and a piece of parchment paper. Dip the cherries in the chocolate and place them on the parchment paper
4. Place in the freezer for 1 hour to full harden
5. Take off the [parchment paper and onto a cocktail pick for the best garnish!

Common tweak: Want it thicker? Add a touch more cream next time. Want it less sweet? Reduce syrup to 0.25 oz.

Pro Tips

This drink looks fancy, but it’s really about a few small details: cold glass, a clean swirl, and not overdoing the chocolate. These tips help you nail it every time.

• Chill the martini glass first. Cold glass keeps the drink thick longer.
• Use a small amount of chocolate sauce in the shaker. Too much can make the drink heavy and overly sweet.
• Shake just long enough. Over-shaking can dilute it and thin the texture.
• Double strain if you want a smooth, clean pour with no ice chips.
• Make the swirl last. Drizzle chocolate sauce, then rotate the glass slowly instead of stirring.
• Shave chocolate right before serving. It looks better and smells stronger.
• Keep the garnish balanced. Three cherries look great, but more can make sipping awkward.
• Serve right away. Creamy cocktails change fast if they sit.

Once you have your favorite balance, you can adjust syrup and cream to match your sweetness level.

Variations

Chocolate cherry is a classic, but you can take it in a few directions depending on the occasion. These ideas keep the same dessert feel while changing the flavor slightly.

• Black Forest version: Add 0.25 oz cherry liqueur and use whipped cream on top instead of chocolate curls.
• Mocha Cherry Martini: Add 0.25 oz espresso or cold brew concentrate for a coffee note.
• Mint Chocolate Cherry: Add a tiny splash of mint syrup or peppermint liqueur for a holiday-style twist. Go light.
• Frozen version: Blend the ingredients with ice for a thicker, milkshake-style martini.
• Mocktail-style version: Use cherry syrup, chocolate syrup, cream, and a splash of strong cold brew over ice, then strain into a chilled glass.

If you’re making variations for a group, keep the chocolate swirl and garnish consistent. It makes the whole setup look intentional.

When to Serve and Pairings

This is an after-dinner drink. It’s rich, creamy, and sweet enough to feel like dessert, so it fits best when you’re winding down and want something special. It’s also a fun party drink because it looks impressive without a lot of extra work.

Great times to serve it:

• Date night at home
• Valentine’s Day and anniversaries
• Holiday parties and winter gatherings
• Birthday dinners
• Dessert spreads and late-night treats

Pair it with:

• Chocolate desserts like brownies, cake, or truffles
• Fresh strawberries or raspberries to balance the richness
• Shortbread cookies or biscotti
• A simple cheese board with salty nuts
• Coffee or espresso on the side

Storage and Serving Notes

This cocktail is best served right after shaking. The cream and chocolate swirl look and taste best when the drink is cold and freshly mixed. If it sits, the texture can change and the swirl can slide.

If you want to prep ahead:

• Pre-mix the cherry vodka, crème de cacao, and syrup in a small bottle and refrigerate.
• Add cream and shake with ice right before serving.
• Make chocolate-covered cherries earlier in the day and keep them chilled.

Serving note: If you’re making multiple drinks, do them in batches of two. It’s easier to shake well without overfilling the shaker.

FAQs

This drink is simple, but the details matter. These answers help you get the texture right and keep the flavor balanced.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but it won’t be as rich or creamy. Half-and-half is a better lighter swap. Milk can make the drink feel thin.

What if I only have regular crème de cacao?
That works. Regular tends to be sweeter, so reduce the cherry vanilla syrup slightly to keep the drink balanced.

How do I keep the chocolate swirl from sliding down?
Use thicker chocolate sauce and chill the glass first. A cold glass helps the swirl hold its shape longer.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?
You can pre-mix the alcohol and syrup, but add the cream and shake right before serving. Creamy cocktails are best fresh.

How do I make homemade chocolate-covered cherries without messy chocolate?
Dry the cherries really well first. Moisture makes chocolate seize and slide off. Also, use coconut oil so the chocolate melts smooth.

Is the garnish required?
No, but it’s worth it. Even one chocolate-covered cherry on a pick makes the drink feel finished.

More Cocktails to Try

If you like this Chocolate Cherry Martini, you’ll probably enjoy other dessert-style cocktails that lean creamy, chocolatey, or coffee-forward.

• Blueberry Cheesecake Martini: Creamy vanilla flavor with coffee and almond notes and an optional crumb rim.
• Chocolate White Russian: A creamy coffee cocktail with a chocolate twist.
• Irish Mudslide: A blended dessert drink with Irish cream, coffee liqueur, and ice cream.
• Tequila Espresso Martini: Bold coffee flavor with a frothy top and smooth finish.
• Strawberry Sweetheart Martini: A creamy strawberry drink with a fun decorated rim.