Red Velvet Martini Drink Recipe for a Festive Twist

Updated On: October 15, 2025

The Red Velvet Martini is a luscious and indulgent cocktail that combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the elegance of a martini. Perfect for special occasions, romantic evenings, or whenever you want to impress your guests with something unique and delicious, this drink is a delightful blend of creamy, chocolatey, and slightly tangy notes.

Its rich red hue and smooth texture make it as visually stunning as it is tasty.

Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just looking to try something new, the Red Velvet Martini offers a sophisticated twist on dessert drinks. It’s easy to make, requires just a handful of ingredients, and delivers a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Ready to shake up your home bartending game? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover why this cocktail deserves a spot in your drink repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Red Velvet Martini recipe is a showstopper for several reasons. First, it captures the essence of the beloved red velvet cake in a drinkable form, combining cream liqueur, vodka, and a hint of chocolate and vanilla.

The result is a creamy, smooth, and slightly sweet cocktail that feels like a dessert in a glass.

It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced mixologists. Plus, the vibrant red color adds a festive touch that’s perfect for holidays, Valentine’s Day, or any celebration where you want to impress.

Finally, this recipe is versatile—you can adjust the sweetness or creaminess to your liking, or even experiment with garnishes to make it your own.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ oz vodka (choose a smooth, quality brand)
  • 1 oz cream liqueur (such as Baileys or a red velvet cream liqueur if available)
  • 1 oz white chocolate liqueur
  • ½ oz crème de cacao (for chocolate flavor)
  • ¼ tsp red food coloring (optional, for a vibrant red color)
  • ½ oz heavy cream (for richness and creaminess)
  • Ice cubes (for shaking)
  • Red sugar or cocoa powder (for rimming the glass)
  • Fresh raspberries or a maraschino cherry (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Martini shaker or cocktail shaker
  • Martini glass or coupe glass
  • Strainer (if your shaker doesn’t have one built-in)
  • Small plate or shallow bowl (for rimming the glass)
  • Measuring jigger or shot glass
  • Bar spoon or stirrer

Instructions

  1. Prepare the glass: Take your martini glass and moisten the rim with a little heavy cream or water. Dip the rim into a plate of red sugar or cocoa powder to coat it evenly. Set aside.
  2. Fill the shaker: Add ice cubes to your shaker until it’s about halfway full. This will chill the cocktail properly.
  3. Add the spirits and cream: Pour in the vodka, cream liqueur, white chocolate liqueur, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. Add red food coloring for a deeper red hue if you like.
  4. Shake well: Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well chilled and slightly frothy.
  5. Strain into glass: Using a strainer, pour the cocktail into your prepared martini glass, leaving the ice behind.
  6. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh raspberries or a maraschino cherry on a cocktail pick. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream and cream liqueur with coconut cream and a dairy-free cream liqueur alternative.

  • Try adding a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth.
  • For a stronger chocolate flavor, increase the amount of crème de cacao slightly.
  • Use red velvet cake crumbs as a unique garnish for a fun presentation.
  • Make it a frozen martini by blending the ingredients with ice instead of shaking.
  • Experiment with rimming the glass using crushed candy canes or cinnamon sugar during the holiday season.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 210 kcal
Carbohydrates 12 g
Sugars 10 g
Fat 7 g
Protein 1 g
Alcohol 14 g

Serving Suggestions

The Red Velvet Martini pairs beautifully with light desserts like chocolate mousse, vanilla panna cotta, or berry tarts. It also works wonderfully as a decadent after-dinner drink to complement a rich meal.

For parties, serve these martinis alongside finger foods such as chocolate-covered strawberries or mini cheesecakes for a coordinated flavor experience. If you’re looking to create a themed event, why not explore more dessert-inspired cocktails or check out other delicious treats on the blog?

Looking for more delicious recipes to try alongside this cocktail? Check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a savory meal, or satisfy your sweet tooth with the Chocolate Chippy Pumpkin Bread Mix Vegan Recipe Made Easy.

For fresh and healthy sides, the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas is a perfect accompaniment.

Conclusion

The Red Velvet Martini is more than just a cocktail—it’s an experience that combines the charm of a classic dessert with the sophistication of a well-crafted drink. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and stunning presentation make it an excellent choice for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.

This recipe is straightforward enough to whip up on a whim but special enough to elevate any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a romantic night in, or simply want to indulge, the Red Velvet Martini is a delightful way to add a splash of elegance and flavor to your day.

Cheers to delicious moments and memorable sips!

📖 Recipe Card: Red Velvet Martini

Description: A decadent and smooth cocktail inspired by the classic red velvet cake. Perfect for dessert lovers looking for a festive and flavorful drink.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT5M

Servings: 1 serving

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz vanilla vodka
  • 1 oz white chocolate liqueur
  • 1 oz cranberry juice
  • 0.5 oz Irish cream liqueur
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • 0.25 oz lemon juice
  • Red sugar or sprinkles for rimming
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Rim a martini glass with lemon juice and dip in red sugar or sprinkles.
  2. Fill a shaker with ice.
  3. Add vanilla vodka, white chocolate liqueur, cranberry juice, Irish cream, simple syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
  4. Shake well until chilled.
  5. Strain into the prepared martini glass.
  6. Garnish with a small piece of red velvet cake or a cherry if desired.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g | Carbs: 15g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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