This gingerbread martini is a seasonal dessert cocktail. The perfect combination of sweet and spicy that tastes just like the holidays!
Are you ready for the BEST gingerbread martini you will ever have? Well, look no further than this classic cocktail recipe!
If you have never had a gingerbread cocktail before, you’re in for a treat!
This gingerbread martini is a delightful and festive cocktail that captures the warm, spicy flavors reminiscent of gingerbread cookies.
Making it the perfect drink for the holiday season or any time you’re in the mood for a cozy, flavorful cocktail.
I used my homemade gingerbread syrup for this cocktail to ensure it was packed with molasses and spice flavor.
Table of Contents
Gingerbread martini ingredients
- Vodka – I always have plain vodka on hand, but you could also substitute it with vanilla vodka. I think a marshmallow-flavored vodka could also work really well here.
- Irish cream liqueur – I’m using Bailey’s brand of Irish cream for this cocktail, but any brand of Irish cream will work. My husband’s personal favorite is Saint Brendan’s.
- Coffee liqueur – I’m using Kahlua for this martini, but again, any brand of coffee liqueur will work well.
- Gingerbread syrup – I’m using my homemade gingerbread syrup for this cocktail, but you can easily use storebought gingerbread syrup that you would typically use for coffee.
- Vanilla ice cream – You’ll use softened vanilla ice cream for this cocktail. You can use heavy cream as a substitute, but the vanilla ice cream gives this drink a lovely texture and flavor.
- Whipped cream – Optional, but it makes for a nice topping.
How to make a gingerbread martini
This cocktail could not be easier!
Add all your ingredients to a cocktail shaker, shake, pour into a chilled martini glass, and SIP AWAY!
I like to top mine with a little whipped cream and festive sprinkles, but that is optional, although it is cute and festive.
Why use ice cream
A lot of gingerbread martinis call for heavy cream, and while that works, I think the richness of soft vanilla ice cream works best.
It keeps the martini chilled and gives a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the molasses and spiced flavor of the gingerbread syrup.
Variations and substitutions
While I’m happy with this martini cocktail as is, here are a few ways to change it up:
- Use flavored vodka in place of plain vodka. Vanilla, marshmallow, or even cinnamon could work well here. Just remember, swapping out the plain vodka will add a different flavor to the as-written cocktail recipe.
- If you do not like ice cream-based drinks, try using heavy cream instead. However, this drink does not have the texture of a milkshake, so don’t worry if that is your concern.
- Swap out the Irish cream for another creamy liqueur like Rumchata.
More gingerbread inspired recipes
- Make this homemade syrup for your martinis! Try my Homemade Gingerbread Syrup.
- Love banana bread with a holiday twist? Try my Gingerbread Banana Bread.
- What about a classic holiday cookie? Try my Soft Gingerbread Cutout Cookies.
- Need a warm drink? Try my Gingerbread White Hot Chocolate.
Gingerbread Martini
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ounce vodka
- 1 ounce Baileys Irish Cream liqueur
- 1/2 ounce Kahlúa coffee liqueur
- 1/2 ounce gingerbread syrup
- 1/2 scoop vanilla ice cream softened
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients with ice in a shaker.
- Shake until smooth and pour into chilled glass.
- Top with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Softened vanilla ice cream gives this drink the lusciousness you want in a holiday cocktail. You could also use heavy cream in its place, but I really like the texture of the soft vanilla ice cream.
- Vanilla vodka would also work well in this cocktail.
- You do not specifically have to use Bailey’s Irish cream – any Irish Cream liqueur will work well.
- I’m using my homemade gingerbread syrup, but you can also use storebought gingerbread syrup. The common ones you find are for flavoring coffee.