When I’m in the mood for a drink that feels special—almost like dessert—I’ll whip up a Chocolate Whiskey Martini. It’s that bold whiskey flavor mixed with smooth chocolate that gets me every time. Honestly, it’s a rich, tasty liquid dessert.
This cocktail’s perfect for parties, winding down after dinner, or just when I want something sweet with a grown-up edge.
I love that this chocolate martini only needs a handful of ingredients. The flavor combo alone makes it a top pick for dessert cocktails.
If you’re into chocolate and don’t want anything fussy, this recipe’s probably up your alley.
Chocolate Whiskey Martini Cocktail Recipe
This one’s all about chocolate liqueur and whiskey coming together for a smooth, creamy treat. I’ll make it for special occasions or just when I’m craving a dessert drink at home.
Equipment
- Martini glass: I like to chill mine first, keeps things cold.
- Cocktail shaker: Essential for mixing everything up with ice.
- Measuring jigger: Makes the pours more accurate, so the drink’s balanced.
- Strainer: Keeps ice out of my glass.
- Bar spoon: Good for stirring in any syrups or last-minute garnishes.
- Grater or zester: I use this for shaving chocolate on top.
- Small plate: Handy for spreading chocolate syrup if I’m rimming the glass.
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey: Bourbon or Irish whiskey are my go-tos for a smoother drink.
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur: Godiva or crème de cacao work great for that rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 oz half-and-half or heavy cream: Gives it that creamy texture.
- ½ oz Irish cream or Baileys (optional): Adds a sweeter, richer twist if I’m feeling it.
- ½ oz simple syrup: Just enough sweetness.
- Chocolate syrup: For drizzling inside the glass or on the rim.
- Chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or white chocolate curls: Fun garnishes that look fancy.
- Ice: Gotta have it for chilling and shaking.
Instructions
- Chill the martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while prepping.
- Add whiskey, chocolate liqueur, half-and-half, simple syrup, and Irish cream (if I’m using it) to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice so it’s super cold.
- Shake well for at least 20 seconds—really go for it until it’s mixed and a little frothy.
- Dump out the ice water from the glass and swirl in chocolate syrup or dip the rim if I want extra flair.
- Strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Top with garnish: I’ll add chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or white chocolate curls if I’m feeling fancy.
Notes
I’ve noticed that half-and-half or heavy cream makes the martini feel silkier than just milk. Sometimes I’ll swap in white chocolate liqueur or go heavy on the Godiva for more chocolate flavor.
If I want it sweeter, I’ll bump up the simple syrup or Irish cream. For a lighter version, I just use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
When I’m making these for friends, I’ll double or triple the recipe and shake up each batch separately so everyone gets a cold drink. Playing around with different whiskeys and liqueurs keeps it interesting—there’s no single “right” way.
Equipment
- Martini glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Measuring jigger
- Strainer
- Bar spoon
- Grater or zester (for chocolate garnish)
- Small plate (for rimming glass or chocolate syrup)
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey bourbon or Irish whiskey
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur such as Godiva or crème de cacao
- 1 oz half-and-half or heavy cream
- ½ oz Irish cream e.g., Baileys – optional
- ½ oz simple syrup
- 1 tsp chocolate syrup for drizzling or rimming
- Chocolate shavings cocoa powder, or white chocolate curls (for garnish)
- Ice enough to fill the shaker
Instructions
- Chill your martini glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water.
- Add whiskey, chocolate liqueur, half-and-half, simple syrup, and Irish cream (if using) to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 20 seconds until well chilled and slightly frothy.
- Discard the ice water from your martini glass and swirl chocolate syrup inside the glass or dip the rim as desired.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or white chocolate curls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Tasting Notes
First sip? The chocolate comes through smooth and clear. Then you get that gentle whiskey kick—not too strong, not too sweet.
It’s got a creamy texture that just feels nice. The chocolate leads, but you can still taste the whiskey and even a little vanilla from the liqueur.
Here’s what I usually pick up:
- Rich chocolate
- Warm whiskey
- Subtle vanilla
- Sometimes a coffee hint if I sneak in coffee liqueur
The aroma’s sweet, kind of like chocolate with a caramel vibe. If I’ve added cocoa or chocolate shavings, the smell’s even better.
These numbers shift a bit depending on your brands and how much you pour. It’s a rich treat, so I tend to sip it slow and just enjoy.
Must Have Ingredients
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Substitute
Sometimes I just don’t have every ingredient for a Chocolate Whiskey Martini. I end up using whatever’s handy, and honestly, it still turns out tasty—maybe even more fun.
Here are some common swaps I use:
- If I’m out of chocolate liqueur, I’ll just mix in a spoonful of chocolate syrup.
- No Irish cream? I grab some half-and-half or milk, splash in a bit of vanilla, and call it good.
- If whiskey isn’t on hand, I’ll use vodka instead—makes it a little more like an Espresso Martini, which isn’t a bad thing.
Some equipment can change, too. No cocktail shaker? I’ve totally used a sealed jar or even a travel mug in a pinch.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker (or any jar with a tight lid)
- Strainer
- Martini glass
For an espresso-style twist, I’ll add a shot of cold espresso. It brings in that coffee kick, kind of like an Espresso Martini.
Instructions
- Toss all your ingredients (with the substitutes, if you’re using them) into the shaker with ice.
- Shake it up for about 20 seconds.
- Strain into your glass and you’re good to go.
