Unwind with the timeless elegance of the martini—a cocktail that’s as versatile as it is iconic. Whether you’re shaking things up with a modern twist or stirring a classic gin version, our roundup of 19 recipes has something for every home bartender. Ready to elevate your cocktail game? Dive in and discover your new favorite pour!
Dry Gin Martini with a Twist
Rarely does a classic cocktail benefit from subtle reinvention, but this gin martini variation delivers precisely that. We’re swapping the traditional olive for a more aromatic garnish while maintaining the drink’s crisp foundation. Prepare for a cleaner, more botanical experience that honors tradition while looking forward.
Ingredients
Dry gin – 2½ oz
Dry vermouth – ½ oz
Lemon peel – 1 strip
Ice cubes – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Fill a mixing glass with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2½ oz dry gin over the ice.
3. Add ½ oz dry vermouth to the mixing glass.
4. Stir continuously for 30 seconds until properly chilled. Tip: Stirring maintains clarity while shaking clouds the drink.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
6. Twist one lemon peel strip directly over the drink to release oils. Tip: Hold the peel skin-side down about 6 inches above the glass.
7. Rub the lemon peel around the glass rim.
8. Drop the spent lemon peel into the drink as garnish. Tip: Avoid the white pith when peeling to prevent bitterness.
Perfectly balanced between juniper-forward gin and herbal vermouth, this martini offers crystalline clarity with bright citrus aromatics. The lemon oil provides a fragrant lift that complements rather than overpowers the spirit’s botanicals. Serve alongside salty snacks like marcona almonds or smoked oysters to contrast the drink’s crisp dryness.
Vodka Martini with Olive Garnish
Frosty, clean, and perfectly balanced—this classic cocktail delivers sophistication in every sip. For the best results, use premium vodka and keep everything ice-cold. Shaking or stirring? We’ll settle that debate below.
Ingredients
– Vodka – 3 oz
– Dry vermouth – ½ oz
– Ice cubes – 1 cup
– Green olives – 2
Instructions
1. Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 3 oz of vodka over the ice.
3. Add ½ oz of dry vermouth to the mixing glass.
4. Stir continuously for 30 seconds with a bar spoon—this chills without diluting too much, unlike shaking which can make the drink cloudy.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
6. Skewer 2 green olives on a cocktail pick.
7. Gently lower the olive garnish into the drink, letting it settle at the bottom.
8. Serve immediately while frosty. For extra chill, store your vodka in the freezer beforehand.
Velvety smooth with a crisp, bracing finish, this martini lets the vodka shine through the subtle vermouth backdrop. The briny olives add a savory counterpoint that cuts the spirit’s edge. Try it with a lemon twist instead for a citrus-forward variation.
Dirty Martini with Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives
Perfect for cocktail hour, this dirty martini elevates the classic with blue cheese-stuffed olives. Its briny, savory profile cuts through the gin’s botanicals. Shake it ice-cold for maximum refreshment.
Ingredients
- Gin – 2 oz
- Dry vermouth – ½ oz
- Olive brine – 1 tsp
- Blue cheese-stuffed olives – 3
- Ice – as needed
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour 2 oz gin into the shaker.
- Add ½ oz dry vermouth to the shaker.
- Measure 1 tsp olive brine and add it to the shaker.
- Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until frost forms on the outside.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Skewer 3 blue cheese-stuffed olives on a cocktail pick.
- Gently drop the skewered olives into the martini.
- Serve immediately.
The martini delivers a silky, chilled texture with a bold, savory kick from the olives and brine. For a creative twist, rim the glass with celery salt before pouring. This cocktail pairs exceptionally well with sharp appetizers like cured meats or spicy nuts.
Espresso Martini with Coffee Liqueur
Just when you need that perfect evening pick-me-up, this espresso martini delivers. Jolt your senses with this simple yet sophisticated cocktail that combines coffee kick with smooth spirits. It’s the ideal balance of energy and relaxation in one elegant glass.
Ingredients
– Vodka – 2 oz
– Coffee liqueur – 1 oz
– Freshly brewed espresso – 1 oz
– Simple syrup – ½ oz
– Ice cubes – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Brew 1 oz of espresso using an espresso machine and let it cool to room temperature for 5 minutes.
2. Chill your cocktail shaker by filling it with ice cubes and swirling for 30 seconds, then discard the ice.
3. Measure 2 oz vodka into the chilled shaker using a jigger for accuracy.
4. Add 1 oz coffee liqueur to the shaker.
5. Pour 1 oz cooled espresso into the shaker.
6. Measure ½ oz simple syrup and add to the mixture.
7. Fill the shaker with 1 cup fresh ice cubes.
8. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside frosts.
9. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled martini glass.
10. Garnish with three coffee beans floating on top for traditional presentation.
Your finished cocktail should have that signature creamy foam layer and rich coffee aroma. Yield a velvety texture that’s both strong and smooth, with the coffee beans adding subtle nutty notes. Try serving it alongside dark chocolate truffles for an indulgent pairing.
French Martini with Chambord and Pineapple Juice
Hitting the perfect balance between sweet and sophisticated, this French Martini delivers elegance in a glass. Here’s how to craft this cocktail with precision and flair.
Ingredients
Vodka – 2 oz
Chambord – ½ oz
Pineapple juice – 1 oz
Ice cubes – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz of vodka into the shaker.
3. Add ½ oz of Chambord to the shaker.
4. Measure and pour 1 oz of pineapple juice into the shaker.
5. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside frosts.
6. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass using a Hawthorne strainer.
7. Garnish with three fresh raspberries skewered on a cocktail pick.
8. Serve immediately while the drink is at its coldest temperature. Let this French Martini delight with its silky texture and vibrant berry-pineapple fusion. Layer the flavors by sipping slowly to appreciate the raspberry liqueur’s depth against the bright citrus notes.
Gibson Martini with Cocktail Onions
Very few cocktails deliver such crisp sophistication as the Gibson martini. Vodka’s clean profile lets the briny cocktail onions shine through perfectly. This minimalist drink requires precision and chilled glassware for best results.
Ingredients
Gin – 2½ oz
Dry vermouth – ½ oz
Cocktail onions – 3
Ice – 2 cups
Instructions
1. Fill a mixing glass with 2 cups of ice.
2. Pour 2½ oz gin over the ice.
3. Add ½ oz dry vermouth to the mixing glass.
4. Stir continuously for 30 seconds until well-chilled.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
6. Skewer 3 cocktail onions on a pick.
7. Gently place the onion skewer into the drink.
8. Serve immediately. Your gin should be freezer-cold before mixing for optimal results. Stirring rather than shaking prevents cloudiness in the final drink. Always chill your martini glass in the freezer for 10 minutes beforehand.
You’ll notice the crystal-clear liquid delivers sharp botanical notes from the gin. The vermouth adds subtle herbal complexity that balances the onions’ salty tang. For a dramatic presentation, use multi-colored cocktail onions or serve with extra onions on the side.
Appletini with Sour Apple Schnapps
Perfect for cocktail hour, this Appletini delivers crisp apple flavor with a smooth vodka kick. Pouring sour apple schnapps creates that signature green hue and tangy finish. Shake it vigorously for optimal chill and froth.
Ingredients
Vodka – 2 oz
Sour apple schnapps – 1 oz
Simple syrup – ½ oz
Ice – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice.
2. Pour 2 oz of vodka into the shaker.
3. Add 1 oz of sour apple schnapps to the shaker.
4. Measure and pour ½ oz of simple syrup into the shaker.
5. Secure the shaker lid tightly to prevent leaks during shaking.
6. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels frosty.
7. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass to remove ice chips.
8. Garnish with a thin apple slice on the rim for visual appeal.
You’ll notice a vibrant green color from the schnapps with a perfect balance of sweet and tart. The chilled, silky texture makes it refreshingly crisp. Try rimming the glass with green sugar for an extra festive touch.
Chocolate Martini with Creme de Cacao
Let’s mix up a sophisticated cocktail that delivers pure chocolate indulgence. This chocolate martini combines rich creme de cacao with smooth vodka for an elegant dessert drink. Perfect for entertaining or treating yourself after a long day.
Ingredients
Vodka – 2 oz
Creme de cacao – 1 oz
Chocolate syrup – 1 tbsp
Ice cubes – 1 cup
Chocolate shavings – 1 tsp
Instructions
1. Chill your martini glass in the freezer for 15 minutes to ensure it’s frosty cold.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
3. Pour 2 oz of vodka into the shaker.
4. Add 1 oz of creme de cacao to the shaker.
5. Drizzle 1 tbsp of chocolate syrup into the mixture.
6. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 30 seconds until the outside feels very cold.
7. Remove the chilled martini glass from the freezer.
8. Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass, using a fine mesh strainer to catch any ice chips.
9. Sprinkle 1 tsp of chocolate shavings over the surface of the drink.
The finished martini has a velvety smooth texture with deep chocolate notes that aren’t overly sweet. For a creative twist, rim the glass with crushed chocolate cookies before pouring. Serve immediately while the glass remains chilled for optimal sipping experience.
Vesper Martini with Gin, Vodka, and Lillet Blanc
Every cocktail enthusiast should master the Vesper Martini—a sophisticated blend of gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc that delivers crisp, botanical depth with a smooth finish. This classic recipe, famously ordered by James Bond, balances strength and elegance in just a few precise steps. Expect a drink that’s both potent and refreshing, perfect for sipping slowly.
Ingredients
– Gin – 3 oz
– Vodka – 1 oz
– Lillet Blanc – ½ oz
– Lemon peel – 1 strip
Instructions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes until three-quarters full.
2. Pour 3 oz of gin into the shaker.
3. Add 1 oz of vodka to the shaker.
4. Measure and pour ½ oz of Lillet Blanc into the shaker.
5. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture perfectly—this creates a silky texture.
6. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass to prevent rapid warming.
7. Hold a vegetable peeler perpendicular to a lemon and slice off a 2-inch strip of peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.
8. Twist the lemon peel over the drink to express its oils onto the surface.
9. Rub the peel along the glass rim to impart citrus aroma, then drop it into the cocktail as a garnish.
Vesper Martini boasts a sharp, clean profile with juniper notes from the gin, softened by vodka’s neutrality and Lillet’s floral hints. Its icy, silky texture coats the palate, making it ideal for pairing with salty appetizers like olives or almonds. Serve it in a frosty glass to emphasize its bracing, elegant character—a timeless choice for cocktail hour.
Pomegranate Martini with Fresh Juice
Holiday gatherings call for vibrant cocktails that impress without complexity. This pomegranate martini delivers festive flair with just four ingredients. Fresh juice makes all the difference here.
Ingredients
Vodka – 4 oz
Fresh pomegranate juice – 3 oz
Lime juice – 1 oz
Simple syrup – ½ oz
Instructions
1. Chill a martini glass in the freezer for 10 minutes.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes until ¾ full.
3. Pour 4 oz vodka into the shaker.
4. Add 3 oz fresh pomegranate juice to the shaker.
5. Measure 1 oz lime juice and add to the mixture.
6. Include ½ oz simple syrup for balanced sweetness.
7. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until frost forms on the outside.
8. Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass, using a fine mesh strainer to catch ice chips.
9. Garnish with a lime wheel placed on the rim.
Lusciously smooth with a vibrant ruby hue, this martini balances tart pomegranate against subtle sweetness. The fresh juice provides brighter flavor than bottled alternatives. Serve immediately in chilled glasses to maintain the crisp, refreshing quality.
Lemon Drop Martini with Sugar Rim
A perfectly balanced cocktail that combines tart lemon with sweet sugar in a classic martini format. Always use freshly squeezed juice for the brightest flavor. This simple recipe delivers professional results with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Vodka – 2 oz
Fresh lemon juice – 1 oz
Simple syrup – ¾ oz
Granulated sugar – 2 tbsp
Instructions
1. Pour granulated sugar onto a small plate.
2. Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a chilled martini glass.
3. Dip the moistened rim into the sugar, rotating to coat evenly.
4. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
5. Add vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
6. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
7. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
8. Garnish with a thin lemon twist.
Ultra-smooth with a perfect sweet-tart balance that makes this cocktail dangerously drinkable. The sugar rim provides delightful texture contrast with each sip. Serve ice-cold with lemon zest expressed over the top to release essential oils.
Manhattan Martini with Bourbon and Sweet Vermouth
Kick off your evening with this sophisticated twist on a classic cocktail. Perfect for bourbon lovers seeking something beyond the traditional Manhattan. Its balanced sweetness and smooth finish make it ideal for sipping slowly.
Ingredients
- Bourbon – 2 oz
- Sweet vermouth – 1 oz
- Angostura bitters – 2 dashes
- Ice cubes – 1 cup
- Maraschino cherry – 1
- Orange peel – 1 strip
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with 1 cup of ice cubes.
- Pour 2 oz bourbon into the mixing glass over the ice.
- Add 1 oz sweet vermouth to the mixing glass.
- Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters directly into the mixture.
- Stir the mixture continuously for 30 seconds using a bar spoon—this chills without overdiluting.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass using a Hawthorne strainer to catch ice chips.
- Express the orange peel over the drink by twisting it sharply to release oils.
- Rub the expressed orange peel around the rim of the glass for aromatic enhancement.
- Drop 1 maraschino cherry into the bottom of the glass as garnish.
- Serve immediately while the drink is at its coldest, around 34°F.
Final sips reveal a velvety texture with caramel notes from bourbon mingling with herbal vermouth. For a creative twist, serve alongside dark chocolate truffles to complement its richness. Frosty and aromatic, it’s a drink that improves with each thoughtful sip.
Smoky Martini with Scotch and Vermouth
Perfect for those who appreciate a bold, smoky cocktail. This martini swaps traditional gin for peaty Scotch and dry vermouth. It’s a sophisticated twist that delivers serious flavor.
Ingredients
- Scotch – 2 oz
- Dry vermouth – ¾ oz
- Ice cubes – 1 cup
- Lemon peel – 1 strip
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with 1 cup of ice cubes.
- Pour 2 oz of Scotch over the ice.
- Add ¾ oz of dry vermouth to the mixing glass.
- Stir the mixture for 30 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
- Twist the lemon peel over the drink to release its oils.
- Rub the lemon peel around the rim of the glass.
- Drop the lemon peel into the cocktail as garnish.
Layers of smoky Scotch and herbal vermouth create a smooth, complex sip. The lemon peel adds a bright citrus aroma that cuts through the richness. For a creative twist, serve it alongside smoked almonds or sharp cheese.
Peach Martini with Peach Schnapps
Nothing beats a perfectly balanced peach martini on a warm evening. Now you can craft this refreshing cocktail at home with just three ingredients. Skip the overpriced bar versions and make it your signature summer drink.
Ingredients
Vodka – 2 oz
Peach schnapps – 1 oz
Peach nectar – 2 oz
Ice cubes – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz vodka directly over the ice.
3. Add 1 oz peach schnapps to the shaker.
4. Measure 2 oz peach nectar and pour it into the shaker.
5. Secure the shaker lid tightly with both hands.
6. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the shaker feels frosty.
7. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
8. Garnish with a thin peach slice on the rim.
Mixing this cocktail creates a smooth, peachy flavor with just the right sweetness. The chilled texture stays crisp while the peach notes shine through. Try serving it alongside grilled fruit or as a brunch cocktail alternative.
Green Tea Martini with Matcha Powder
Pour this vibrant green tea martini when you need a sophisticated pick-me-up. Perfectly balanced between earthy matcha and smooth vodka, it comes together in minutes. Shake it up for happy hour or dinner parties.
Ingredients
Vodka – 2 oz
Matcha powder – 1 tsp
Simple syrup – ¾ oz
Lime juice – ½ oz
Ice – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Add 1 tsp matcha powder to a cocktail shaker.
2. Pour 2 oz vodka directly over the matcha powder.
3. Vigorously whisk the matcha and vodka with a small whisk until no clumps remain. (Tip: Whisking matcha with alcohol first prevents clumping in the final drink.)
4. Add ¾ oz simple syrup to the shaker.
5. Squeeze ½ oz fresh lime juice into the shaker.
6. Fill the shaker with 1 cup of ice.
7. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well-chilled. (Tip: Shake until the shaker feels frosty to ensure proper dilution and chilling.)
8. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
9. Garnish with a light dusting of matcha powder over the surface if desired. (Tip: Use a fine mesh strainer to dust matcha evenly for a professional finish.)
Delightfully smooth with a frothy top layer, this martini delivers earthy matcha notes balanced by citrus brightness. The vibrant green color makes it visually striking against clear glassware. Serve it alongside sushi or dark chocolate for an elegant pairing experience.
Cosmopolitan Martini with Cranberry Juice
Holiday parties demand showstopping cocktails that impress without complexity. Here’s how to craft the perfect Cosmopolitan Martini with minimal effort and maximum flavor impact.
Ingredients
Vodka – 2 oz
Cranberry juice – 1 oz
Lime juice – ½ oz
Cointreau – ½ oz
Ice – 1 cup
Lime wheel – 1
Instructions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz vodka directly into the shaker.
3. Add 1 oz cranberry juice to the shaker.
4. Squeeze ½ oz fresh lime juice into the mixture.
5. Measure and pour ½ oz Cointreau into the shaker.
6. Secure the shaker lid tightly with both hands.
7. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the shaker feels frosty.
8. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
9. Garnish with a single lime wheel placed on the rim.
This cocktail delivers a perfect balance of tart cranberry and bright citrus with a smooth vodka finish. The vibrant pink color makes it visually stunning for any occasion. Try serving it alongside sharp cheeses or spicy appetizers to complement its crisp profile.
Basil Martini with Fresh Herbs
Mix up your cocktail routine with this herbaceous basil martini. Muddle fresh basil to release its aromatic oils before shaking with gin and vermouth. Strain into a chilled glass for a crisp, botanical drink that elevates classic cocktail hour.
Ingredients
Fresh basil leaves – 8
Gin – 2 oz
Dry vermouth – 1 oz
Ice cubes – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Place 8 fresh basil leaves in a cocktail shaker.
2. Muddle the basil leaves firmly for 15 seconds to release oils.
3. Add 2 oz gin to the shaker.
4. Pour 1 oz dry vermouth into the shaker.
5. Fill the shaker with 1 cup ice cubes.
6. Secure the shaker lid tightly.
7. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds until thoroughly chilled.
8. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
9. Discard the used ice and basil remnants.
Enjoy this vibrant cocktail immediately while it’s perfectly chilled. Each sip delivers the crisp freshness of basil balanced with botanical gin notes. Experiment by garnishing with a sprig of fresh thyme or serving alongside salty olives.
Spicy Martini with Jalapeño Infused Vodka
Just when you thought martinis couldn’t get better, this spicy version kicks things up. Jalapeño-infused vodka brings the heat while dry vermouth keeps it crisp. Perfect for those who like their cocktails with a fiery edge.
Ingredients
Jalapeño-infused vodka – 2 oz
Dry vermouth – ½ oz
Ice – 1 cup
Jalapeño slices – 2
Lime wedge – 1
Instructions
1. Fill a mixing glass with 1 cup of ice.
2. Pour 2 oz jalapeño-infused vodka over the ice.
3. Add ½ oz dry vermouth to the mixing glass.
4. Stir continuously for 30 seconds until well-chilled. Tip: Stirring preserves the spirit’s clarity compared to shaking.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish with 2 jalapeño slices on a cocktail pick. Tip: Remove seeds from jalapeños for milder heat.
7. Squeeze 1 lime wedge over the drink before dropping it in. Tip: Rub the lime around the rim for extra citrus aroma.
Really, the crisp vodka base lets the jalapeño’s slow burn shine through without overwhelming heat. The vermouth adds just enough herbal complexity to balance the spice. Serve it alongside salty snacks like olives or spiced nuts to complement the fiery kick.
Elderflower Martini with St-Germain
Lately, I’ve been obsessed with floral cocktails that balance sweetness with sophistication. This elderflower martini comes together in minutes but tastes like a craft cocktail bar creation. St-Germain’s delicate floral notes transform basic gin into something special.
Ingredients
Gin – 2 oz
St-Germain – 1 oz
Fresh lemon juice – ½ oz
Ice cubes – 1 cup
Lemon twist – 1
Instructions
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with 1 cup of ice cubes.
2. Pour 2 oz gin into the shaker.
3. Add 1 oz St-Germain to the shaker.
4. Squeeze ½ oz fresh lemon juice directly into the shaker.
5. Secure the shaker lid tightly with both hands.
6. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the shaker feels frosty.
7. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
8. Twist a lemon peel over the drink to release its oils.
9. Rub the lemon twist around the glass rim.
10. Float the lemon twist on top of the cocktail.
This martini delivers a silky texture with bright citrus cutting through the floral sweetness. The botanical gin backbone keeps it from being cloying. Try serving it alongside sharp cheeses or as a pre-dinner aperitif to awaken the palate.
Summary
Kickstart your cocktail journey with these 19 classic martini recipes that offer endless variety and timeless appeal. Whether you’re a gin purist or love a modern twist, there’s a perfect martini waiting for you. We’d love to hear which recipes become your favorites—leave a comment below and share this roundup on Pinterest to inspire fellow home bartenders!
