What does a gingerbread martini taste like?
A gingerbread martini tastes like a gingerbread cookie dunked in cream: sweet, gingery and spiced, with molasses and vanilla and vodka keeping it lively.
Gingerbread martini
gingerbread cookie, boozy
A gingerbread martini isn't a real martini, it's a sweet holiday dessert drink served in the same glass. Most are vodka shaken with gingerbread syrup (ginger, cinnamon, clove and molasses) and something creamy, like Irish cream liqueur or half-and-half. The ginger gives a gentle tingle, the molasses tastes like brown sugar, and the cream makes it soft and smooth. Recipes vary a lot by bar, and some use vanilla vodka or a coffee liqueur. Expect a crumbled cookie rim or a little whipped cream on top.
Where you’ll see it
A seasonal special on holiday cocktail menus from about Thanksgiving to New Year, served up in a martini or coupe glass, often with a cookie crumb rim or a mini gingerbread cookie.
Order it if you want a holiday cookie and a cocktail at the same time.
Quick questions
- Is a gingerbread martini strong?
- It has a full shot or more of vodka, so it is not light, but the cream and syrup make it taste much softer than it is.
- Is a gingerbread martini creamy?
- Usually, yes. Most add Irish cream or cream, though some bars make a clear version with just vodka, gingerbread syrup and lemon.