Intro :
When strawberries dipped in chocolate become a drink? You get magic in a martini glass. This chocolate covered strawberry martini recipe is the cocktail equivalent of love at first sip—dessert and drink all in one. Inspired by late nights spent dipping berries in abuelita Rosa’s melted chocolate while jazz records spun in our California kitchen, this martini recipe brings together rich chocolate liqueur, smooth vodka, and a kiss of strawberry. It’s my go-to indulgence when I want a cocktail that whispers luxury but mixes up in minutes. And yes—this drink sings.
Table of Contents
Let’s dive into how to make it unforgettable.
PART 1: The Story Behind My Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini Recipe
Childhood Market Runs & Chocolate-Stained Fingers
Back in Lima, my summers were never just about sun or sea. They were about the rhythm of Lima’s open-air markets and my grandma Rosa’s unshakable rule: “Only pick strawberries that speak to your fingertips.” I’d carry home little baskets of fruit so fragrant they felt like perfume. By the time we reached home, my hands were stained red—then stained brown after helping dip them in warm melted chocolate.

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
- Martini Glass
- Strainer
Ingredients
strawberry liqueur or syrup
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 1.5 oz crème de cacao (dark)
- 1 oz strawberry liqueur or syrup
- 1 oz Irish cream or dairy-free cream liqueur
- 1 cup ice
Garnish
- chocolate-dipped strawberry optional
- shaved dark chocolate optional
Instructions
- Rim a chilled martini glass with strawberry syrup and roll it in cocoa powder or shaved chocolate.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine vanilla vodka, crème de cacao, strawberry liqueur, and Irish cream with ice.
- Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish with a chocolate-dipped strawberry or a dusting of shaved chocolate. Serve immediately.
Notes
Years later in California, I recreated that ritual in a new way—this time as a cocktail for friends on Valentine’s Day. I paired the memories of melted dark chocolate and fresh strawberry slices with a vodka backbone and creamy swirl. The result? A chocolate covered strawberry martini recipe that became an instant favorite.
Why This Martini Recipe Works Every Time
This cocktail isn’t just sweet—it’s balanced. The richness of crème de cacao wraps around the bright tartness of strawberry syrup or liqueur. Vanilla vodka adds silkiness, and a splash of Irish cream makes it lush. Want it dairy-free? Swap in oat milk cream liqueurs without losing that indulgent mouthfeel.
It’s even better when chilled until velvety. I keep a small carafe of it ready in my fridge for surprise guests. If you’re already into dessert cocktails like this Baileys Chocolate Martini or the classic Chocolate Martini Recipe, you’ll fall hard for this one.
PART 2: Building the Perfect Chocolate Strawberry Martini at Home
Ingredients That Make It Sing
Start with premium spirits—this isn’t the place for bottom-shelf anything. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredient | Purpose |
---|---|
Vanilla Vodka | Adds smoothness and body |
Crème de Cacao (dark) | For rich chocolate depth |
Strawberry Liqueur or Syrup | Sweet, fruity balance |
Irish Cream or Dairy-Free Cream Liqueur | Makes it velvety |
Ice | To chill without dilution |
Garnishes: Fresh strawberry, shaved chocolate | Finishing touches |
Optional but recommended: chocolate sauce for drizzling and rimming the glass. It turns the drink into a full experience.
How to Rim the Glass Like a Pro
If you’re wondering how to rim a glass for a chocolate covered strawberry martini recipe, here’s how I learned from my bartender friend in Midtown Sacramento:
- Chill the martini glass first (pop it in the freezer).
- Dip the rim in strawberry syrup.
- Then roll it in finely shaved dark chocolate or cocoa powder.
- Let it set for 30 seconds before pouring in the cocktail.
This step elevates the drink from just pretty to practically photogenic. It pairs beautifully with desserts like Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake or Strawberry Shortcake Martini for themed parties.
PART 3: Twists, Substitutions & How to Garnish Like a Pro
Dairy-Free Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini Recipe Variations
One of the most common questions I get is: Can I make a dairy-free chocolate covered strawberry martini recipe? Absolutely. Here’s how:
- Replace Irish cream with a dairy-free alternative like Baileys Almande (almond milk-based) or Oatly Creamy Liqueur.
- Use vegan chocolate liqueur—brands like Mozart or Crave offer options.
- For richness, a splash of unsweetened coconut cream works magic with strawberry liqueur.
The key is maintaining the creamy texture. Give it a good shake to aerate and emulsify. I tested this variation during a girls’ night with two vegan friends, and they didn’t even know it was dairy-free until the glass was empty.

Want more creative spins? Try adding ½ oz of espresso vodka for a mocha version or a touch of chili liqueur for heat.
Craving chocolate-themed options? The Peanut Butter Cup Martini brings similar comfort with nutty flair.
What’s the Best Garnish for a Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini Recipe?
Garnish is more than decoration—it sets the mood. The best garnish for this martini is one of these three:
- Chocolate-dipped strawberry on the rim (prep ahead and chill to avoid dripping)
- Shaved dark chocolate dusted over the top
- Chocolate drizzle inside the glass before pouring the drink
If you’re hosting, freeze strawberry hearts in advance—just halve fresh berries lengthwise and carve a little V at the top. Serve them on cocktail picks resting across the rim.
Paired with elegant drinks like the Lemon Meringue Martini, this cocktail becomes part of a luxe lineup for dinner parties or bridal showers.
PART 4: Serving, Pairing & the Recipe Card You Need
When & How to Serve This Martini
This chocolate covered strawberry martini isn’t just for Valentine’s Day. It shines:
- At bridal showers with chocolate-dipped pretzels
- As a dessert drink with no baking required
- During holiday gatherings (add peppermint rim for winter)
- For solo self-care nights with jazz and candles—no judgment here
Want it on the rocks instead? Pour it over a large cube in a tumbler. It takes on a slower, more seductive vibe.
For a drink with similar creamy-dreamy decadence, try the Chocolate Milkshake White Russian, another fusion of dessert and cocktail.

The Recipe Card: Easy, Flexible, Irresistible
Here’s a quick look at the full recipe specs:
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini
Servings: 2 cocktails
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Vanilla Vodka | 2 oz |
Crème de Cacao (dark) | 1.5 oz |
Strawberry Liqueur/Syrup | 1 oz |
Irish Cream or Vegan Cream Liqueur | 1 oz |
Ice | 1 cup |
Optional Garnishes | Chocolate sauce, strawberry, chocolate shavings |
Instructions:
- Rim a chilled martini glass with strawberry syrup and cocoa powder.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients with ice.
- Shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
- Strain into the prepared glass.
- Garnish and serve immediately.
Pairs perfectly with chocolate desserts or enjoyed solo.
Conclusion
This chocolate covered strawberry martini recipe is more than just a sweet drink—it’s a sensory experience built on memory and indulgence. Whether you’re shaking it up for a date night or sipping solo, it delivers every time. From creamy layers to rich strawberry-chocolate flavor, this martini is your go-to dessert in a glass.
For more recipes folow us in Facebook and Pinterest
What alcohol is used in a chocolate covered strawberry martini recipe?
Typically, you’ll use vanilla vodka as the base, paired with crème de cacao (for chocolate) and a strawberry liqueur. Some variations also include Irish cream for added richness.
How do you rim a glass for a chocolate covered strawberry martini recipe?
Dip the rim in strawberry syrup, then into cocoa powder or shaved chocolate. Let it set for a few seconds before pouring in your cocktail.
Can I make a dairy-free chocolate covered strawberry martini recipe?
Yes! Swap Irish cream for a plant-based cream liqueur (almond, oat, or coconut-based). Make sure your chocolate liqueur is dairy-free too.
What’s the best garnish for a chocolate covered strawberry martini recipe?
A fresh chocolate-dipped strawberry is the classic favorite. Shaved chocolate or a drizzle of chocolate inside the glass also works beautifully.