Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini Recipe: A Sweet & Silky Sip to Remember

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 served

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini

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This chocolate covered strawberry martini is a luxurious, silky cocktail combining vanilla vodka, dark chocolate liqueur, strawberry syrup, and cream liqueur. It’s romantic, easy to make, and unforgettable.
Course Cocktail
Cuisine American, Fusion
Servings 2 cocktails
Calories 210 kcal

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

For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream liqueurs and ensure chocolate liqueur is vegan.
Keyword chocolate covered strawberry martini, strawberry, vodka cocktail

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:

IngredientPurpose
Vanilla VodkaAdds smoothness and body
Crème de Cacao (dark)For rich chocolate depth
Strawberry Liqueur or SyrupSweet, fruity balance
Irish Cream or Dairy-Free Cream LiqueurMakes it velvety
IceTo chill without dilution
Garnishes: Fresh strawberry, shaved chocolateFinishing 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:

  1. Chill the martini glass first (pop it in the freezer).
  2. Dip the rim in strawberry syrup.
  3. Then roll it in finely shaved dark chocolate or cocoa powder.
  4. 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.

chocolate covered strawberry martini with garnish
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini Recipe: A Sweet & Silky Sip to Remember 6

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:

  1. Chocolate-dipped strawberry on the rim (prep ahead and chill to avoid dripping)
  2. Shaved dark chocolate dusted over the top
  3. 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.

chocolate covered strawberry martini with garnish
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini Recipe: A Sweet & Silky Sip to Remember 7

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

IngredientAmount
Vanilla Vodka2 oz
Crème de Cacao (dark)1.5 oz
Strawberry Liqueur/Syrup1 oz
Irish Cream or Vegan Cream Liqueur1 oz
Ice1 cup
Optional GarnishesChocolate sauce, strawberry, chocolate shavings

Instructions:

  1. Rim a chilled martini glass with strawberry syrup and cocoa powder.
  2. In a cocktail shaker, combine all ingredients with ice.
  3. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
  4. Strain into the prepared glass.
  5. 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.

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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.

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