This Gingerbread Martini tastes like the holidays in a glass. It’s creamy, cozy, and full of warm spices.
It’s one of those cocktails that makes you feel instantly festive with the first sip. I always bring this one out when I’m hosting or just want something special at home that still feels easy.
Why I Love This Recipe
I made this for the first time for a little holiday get-together at home, and it was the first thing everyone asked for seconds of. It’s sweet but not too sweet, has just the right amount of spice, and honestly just makes you feel fancy without trying hard.
- No shaker needed if you don’t have one
- Uses simple ingredients you can find easily
- Feels festive and cozy without being over-the-top
- A great “dessert cocktail” without being super heavy
- Perfect for any holiday gathering or just a quiet night in
Serves: 1
Time: 5 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz Irish cream liqueur (like Baileys)
- 1 oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
- 1 oz half-and-half
- 1 tbsp gingerbread syrup
- Ice cubes
- For garnish: whipped cream, ground cinnamon, and crushed gingerbread cookies
- Optional: small gingerbread cookie for serving
Pro Tips
- Use fresh ice — old ice can taste weird in cocktails
- Chill your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes for that extra crisp feel
- Rim the glass before mixing the drink so everything is ready to go
- If you don’t have gingerbread syrup, mix molasses and a dash of cinnamon + ginger
- Shake hard — you want it cold and creamy
Tools Needed
- Cocktail shaker or jar with lid
- Small bowl or plate for cookie crumbs
- Spoon or small whisk
- Martini glass
Substitutions and Variations
- No Irish cream? Use regular cream and a splash of whiskey
- Coffee liqueur swap: Use strong cold brew + sugar
- Make it dairy-free with coconut cream or almond milk
- Use vanilla vodka for more flavor
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix all the liquids (except ice and garnish) ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake with ice right before serving.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Rim the Glass
Take your martini glass and dip the rim into a bit of gingerbread syrup, then dip into crushed gingerbread cookies on a small plate until well coated.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Shaker
In a cocktail shaker or jar with lid, pour in 2 oz vodka, 1 oz Irish cream liqueur, 1 oz coffee liqueur, 1 oz half-and-half, and 1 tbsp gingerbread syrup. Add a handful of ice cubes.
Step 3: Shake Well
Secure the lid and shake the shaker hard for about 15–20 seconds, until the outside feels cold and the mix is nice and frothy.
Step 4: Strain and Serve
Open the shaker and strain the drink into your prepared martini glass.
Step 5: Garnish
Top the drink with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and place a small gingerbread cookie on the plate beside it if you like.
Leftovers and Storage
This drink is best fresh. You can pre-mix the ingredients (without ice) and chill them, but once shaken, drink it right away. Whipped cream should be added just before serving.
Macros Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 290
- Carbs: 18g
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 14g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The alcohol blends with the dairy because of the balance of fat and sugar. Shaking chills everything fast, adds air for that creamy texture, and slightly dilutes the drink to smooth out the flavor. Gingerbread syrup gives it a deep, warm spice flavor that pairs beautifully with the liqueurs.
Common Mistakes
- Too much ice: Can water the drink down
- Not shaking enough: The texture won’t be creamy
- Using warm ingredients: The drink won’t chill properly
- Skipping the rim: It adds texture and flavor — don’t skip it!
What to Serve With
- Gingerbread cookies
- Chocolate truffles
- Shortbread
- Salted nuts
- Cheese board with dried fruits
FAQ
Can I make this without a shaker?
Yes, use any jar with a tight lid. Just shake well.
Is there a non-alcoholic version?
You can use coffee, cream, gingerbread syrup, and a splash of vanilla.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and shake each serving with ice before pouring.
What vodka works best?
Any smooth vodka — or try vanilla vodka for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Gingerbread Martini is the ultimate holiday treat in a glass. It’s creamy, a little spicy, and just the right amount of sweet. Whether you’re mixing it up for a gathering or treating yourself after a long day, it’s guaranteed to bring on the festive vibes. Try it, enjoy it, and let me know how it went in the comments!
