The Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini is a fun and sweet cocktail that brings together the fresh taste of juicy strawberries with the smooth richness of chocolate. It’s like your favorite chocolate-covered strawberry, but in a glass with a little kick. The mix usually includes vodka, chocolate liqueur, and strawberry syrup or puree, making every sip fruity and deliciously chocolaty.
I love making this martini when I want to impress guests with something a little special but easy to whip up. The best part is how simple it is to get that fancy look by drizzling chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring the drink. It makes everything feel a bit more festive and fun—plus, who can resist the chocolate and strawberry combo?
This drink is perfect for a cozy night in or as a sweet treat during celebrations. I often serve it chilled with a fresh strawberry garnish right on the rim, which makes it look as good as it tastes. It always brings smiles and makes me feel a little fancy without much effort at all.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Vodka is a clean, neutral base that lets the chocolate and strawberry flavors shine. If you prefer, you can use a flavored vodka like vanilla or strawberry for extra taste.
Chocolate Liqueur: This adds rich chocolate flavor. Godiva is great, but you can also use other chocolate liqueurs or even creme de cacao. Unsweetened cocoa powder mixed into a little simple syrup is an option too.
Strawberry Liqueur or Puree: Strawberry liqueur brings sweet, fruity notes. If you don’t have liqueur, fresh strawberry puree or syrup works well. For a lighter option, muddled strawberries with a splash of lemon juice can be refreshing.
Cream or Half-and-Half: This is optional but gives a silky texture. For dairy-free, use coconut cream or almond milk, though it’ll change the flavor slightly.
Chocolate Syrup: Drizzling this inside the glass creates that classic chocolate covered look. You can swap with caramel sauce for a different twist or use dark chocolate sauce for a less sweet option.
How Do You Create the Perfect Chocolate Swirl Inside the Glass?
Getting that pretty chocolate swirl is easier than you’d think and makes your martini look special. Here’s how I do it:
- Choose a chilled, clean martini glass.
- Use a spoon or squeeze bottle to drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass, starting from the bottom and making spirals or vertical stripes.
- Slowly tilt and rotate the glass to help the syrup stick evenly and create a neat pattern.
- Place the glass in the fridge to set the syrup and chill while you mix the drink.
- When pouring the cocktail, do it gently down the side so you don’t disturb the swirl.
This technique adds style and lets each sip carry a bit of chocolate goodness along with the flavors of the drink. It’s a simple step that makes a big impression!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Martini glass – I recommend chilling the glass first to keep your drink cold longer and help set the chocolate syrup swirl inside.
- Cocktail shaker – a must for mixing everything thoroughly and chilling the drink quickly.
- Spoons or squeeze bottles – handy for drizzling the chocolate syrup inside the glass for that fancy swirl.
- Strainer – helps pour the cocktail smoothly without ice shards or pulp from the strawberry puree.
- Small bowl or plate – for melting or warming chocolate if you’re dipping strawberries or creating a drizzle.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use flavored vodka, like vanilla or strawberry, to boost fruity or sweet notes.
- Switch out chocolate liqueur for white chocolate liqueur for a different sweet twist.
- Garnish with a chocolate-dipped strawberry or a sprig of mint for fresh flavor and visual appeal.
- Mix in a splash of orange liqueur or citrus juice for a tangy contrast to the sweet chocolate and strawberry.
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 oz vodka
- 1 oz chocolate liqueur (e.g., Godiva Chocolate Liqueur)
- 1 oz strawberry liqueur or strawberry puree
- 1 oz cream or half-and-half (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp chocolate syrup
- Ice cubes
- Fresh strawberry (for garnish)
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa nibs (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe only takes about 5 minutes to prepare. Most of the time is spent chilling the glass and shaking the ingredients well. If you want to dip strawberries in melted chocolate for garnish, add a few extra minutes to let them set.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Chill and Decorate the Glass:
Start by drizzling chocolate syrup inside a clean martini glass in a spiral or striped pattern. Place the glass in the fridge to chill and let the chocolate set while you prepare your cocktail.
2. Mix the Martini:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add the vodka, chocolate liqueur, strawberry liqueur or puree, and cream or half-and-half if you want a creamier drink. Shake it vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until nicely chilled and slightly frothy.
3. Assemble and Garnish:
Take the chilled glass out of the fridge. Strain the shaken mixture into the glass carefully to keep the chocolate syrup swirl visible on the inside. Garnish the rim with a fresh strawberry dipped halfway in melted chocolate for that classic chocolate-covered look. If you like, sprinkle chocolate shavings or cocoa nibs on top for a special touch.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately and enjoy your rich, fruity, and indulgent Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini. Perfect for a special treat or celebrating a sweet moment!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess juice before using. If you’re making strawberry puree, blend thawed strawberries well for a smooth texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Martini Mix?
It’s best to enjoy this cocktail fresh, but you can store any unused mix in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake gently before pouring again.
Can I Make This Martini Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Replace the cream or half-and-half with coconut cream or almond milk for a delicious dairy-free twist. The flavor will be slightly different but still creamy and tasty.
What’s the Best Way to Melt Chocolate for Dipping Strawberries?
Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat the chocolate in 20-second bursts, stirring between each until smooth. You can also melt it gently over a double boiler on the stove for better control and even melting.
