Paul Kushner
The Chocolate Cherry Martini is a rich and indulgent dessert cocktail that beautifully marries the decadence of chocolate with the sweet allure of cherries. Cherry vodka adds a fruity punch, while chocolate liqueur delivers a velvety, cocoa-infused base. A splash of cherry syrup enhances the sweetness and deepens the flavor, and heavy cream brings a luxurious smoothness that ties it all together. Shaken with ice and strained into a chilled martini glass, this cocktail is ideal for romantic evenings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a sweet sip with a sophisticated edge. Garnish with a cherry or chocolate shavings for the perfect finishing touch.
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Tasting Notes
The Chocolate Cherry Martini is a luscious, dessert-inspired cocktail that perfectly balances sweet, velvety richness with juicy fruitiness. Cherry vodka delivers a bold, fruity punch, softened by the silky decadence of chocolate liqueur. A splash of heavy cream adds indulgent smoothness, while cherry syrup enhances the sweetness and deepens the cocktail’s ruby hue. The result is a martini that’s romantic, luxurious, and full of chocolate-covered cherry flavor in liquid form. Garnished with a cherry or chocolate shavings, this cocktail is indulgence in a glass—perfect for dessert, celebrations, or cozy evenings with a touch of glam.
Equipment and Glassware
This cocktail is simple to prepare but elegant in presentation. Use a cocktail shaker to thoroughly chill and mix the ingredients, ensuring a smooth, creamy finish. A jigger helps with precise measuring to balance the flavors. Shake with ice to blend the cream evenly and achieve a frothy texture. Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass to elevate its visual appeal. A microplane or grater can be used to top with chocolate shavings, while a cocktail pick is ideal for serving a cherry garnish. Chill your glass beforehand for the best texture and temperature.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz cherry vodka
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur
- 0.5 oz heavy cream
- 0.5 oz cherry syrup
- Garnish: cherry or chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Shake: In a shaker filled with ice, combine chocolate liqueur, cherry vodka, heavy cream, and cherry syrup. Shake well until chilled and smooth.
- Strain: Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish: Top with a cherry or sprinkle chocolate shavings for a luxe finish.
Pro Tips
- Use quality chocolate liqueur like Godiva, Mozart, or Baileys Chocolate Cherry for a smooth, rich base.
- Shake thoroughly to emulsify the cream and chill the drink for that perfect silky texture.
- Chill your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes for extra elegance. If using homemade cherry syrup, simmer cherries with sugar and water, then strain and cool for fresh, bold flavor.
- Want a mocha twist? Add a dash of cold espresso.
- Garnish with Luxardo cherries for an upscale touch or drizzle the inside of the glass with chocolate syrup for added flair.
When to Serve
The Chocolate Cherry Martini is perfect for romantic dinners, Valentine’s Day, date nights, dessert hours, or any time you want to impress with a luxurious, velvety cocktail. It’s also an elegant option for cocktail parties, holiday gatherings, or winter nights when rich and cozy drinks shine. Whether served as a sweet finale after dinner or as a glamorous sipper during celebrations, this cocktail brings a balance of richness, beauty, and crowd-pleasing flavor that always feels special.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- For cherry vodka, go with Smirnoff Cherry, Skyy Infusions Cherry, or Three Olives Cherry—each offers clean cherry flavor that blends beautifully with chocolate.
- Use a premium chocolate liqueur like Godiva, Mozart, or Dorda for a rich, authentic cocoa note.
- For cream, fresh heavy cream or half-and-half delivers the best texture.
- Choose real cherry syrup like Torani, Monin, or homemade for bold fruit flavor.
- Garnish with Luxardo cherries for a gourmet finish or a sprinkle of dark chocolate curls for added indulgence.
Similar Cocktails
- Coconut Pie Martini
- Caramel Latte Martini
- Chocolate Piña Colada
- Dark Chocolate Orange Espresso
- Chocolate Mint Julep
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz cherry vodka
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur
- 0.5 oz heavy cream
- 0.5 oz cherry syrup
- Garnish: cherry or chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Shake: In a shaker filled with ice, combine chocolate liqueur, cherry vodka, heavy cream, and cherry syrup. Shake well until chilled and smooth.
- Strain: Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish: Top with a cherry or sprinkle chocolate shavings for a luxe finish.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Rim the glass with cocoa powder or shaved chocolate for extra flair.
- Use cherry preserves instead of syrup for a richer, more authentic flavor.
- Chill your glass for a velvety, creamy presentation.
