12 Easy Martini Recipes

You're about to discover how to craft 12 classic and creative martinis that'll transform your home bartending skills. From the timeless gin martini to modern variations like the espresso and lemon drop, these recipes strike the perfect balance between sophistication and simplicity. Whether you prefer your cocktails shaken or stirred, dry or dirty, each recipe features precise measurements, expert techniques, and professional tips to help you master the art of mixing these iconic drinks. Let's start with the most fundamental martini of all.

The Classic Gin Martini

The Classic Gin Martini represents the epitome of sophisticated cocktails, tracing its origins back to the late 19th century. This timeless drink combines the botanical complexity of gin with the subtle aromatics of dry vermouth, creating a clean, crisp, and elegant beverage that has become synonymous with refinement.

While seemingly simple in composition, the perfect martini requires attention to detail and proper technique. The ratio of gin to vermouth, the temperature of ingredients, and the method of preparation all play crucial roles in crafting this iconic cocktail. When made correctly, a classic gin martini should be ice-cold, crystal clear, and garnished with either an olive or a lemon twist.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 oz London Dry gin
• 0.5 oz dry vermouth
• Ice cubes
• 1 lemon twist or 1-3 olives for garnish

Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes until it's about two-thirds full. Add the gin and dry vermouth to the mixing glass. Using a long-handled bar spoon, stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds to achieve proper dilution and temperature. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass using a Hawthorne strainer or julep strainer, ensuring no ice chips make it into the final drink. Add your chosen garnish – either a lemon twist or olives.

For optimal results, store both gin and vermouth in the refrigerator before mixing. The martini glass should be chilled in the freezer for at least 10 minutes prior to serving. If using olives, avoid using the olive juice unless specifically making a dirty martini. The traditional preparation requires either one or three olives – never an even number, as this is considered bad luck in cocktail tradition.

Vodka Martini

The Vodka Martini is an elegant and sophisticated cocktail that has become a symbol of refined taste and style. Made famous by James Bond's preference for his martinis "shaken, not stirred," this classic drink offers a smooth, clean taste that highlights the pure essence of premium vodka.

Unlike its gin-based cousin, the Vodka Martini brings a more neutral flavor profile that appeals to those who prefer a less herbal taste in their cocktails. The combination of crisp vodka and dry vermouth creates a perfectly balanced drink that can be customized to match individual preferences for dryness and garnish choices.

Ingredients:

• 2½ oz premium vodka
• ½ oz dry vermouth
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist or olive for garnish

Pour the vodka and dry vermouth into a mixing glass filled with ice cubes. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to properly chill and combine the ingredients while achieving the perfect dilution. If you prefer the James Bond method, transfer the mixture to a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously instead. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass, being careful to keep any ice shards from falling in.

For best results, chill your martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before preparing the drink. The ratio of vodka to vermouth can be adjusted to taste – use less vermouth for a drier martini or more for a "wetter" version. A traditional Vodka Martini can be garnished with either a lemon twist, which adds a subtle citrus aroma, or an olive, which provides a savory note to the drink.

Dirty Martini

The Dirty Martini is a sophisticated variation of the classic martini that adds a briny, savory dimension with the addition of olive juice. This cocktail has become increasingly popular among those who appreciate a more complex flavor profile in their drinks, with the saltiness of the olive brine complementing the botanical notes of gin or the smoothness of vodka.

Dating back to the early 1900s, the Dirty Martini gained prominence during the American prohibition era when olive brine was used to mask the harsh taste of poor-quality spirits. Today, it stands as a refined cocktail choice that can be customized to each drinker's preferred level of "dirtiness" by adjusting the amount of olive juice.

Ingredients:

• 2½ oz gin or vodka
• ½ oz dry vermouth
• ¼ to ½ oz olive brine
• 2-3 green olives
• Ice cubes

Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add the gin or vodka, dry vermouth, and olive brine. Stir or shake the mixture for about 30 seconds until thoroughly chilled. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.

Thread 2-3 olives onto a cocktail pick and place in the glass as a garnish. Some prefer to drop the olives directly into the drink, allowing their flavor to continue infusing into the cocktail.

For the best results, use high-quality olives and brine, and keep your spirits and glassware well-chilled. The amount of olive brine can be adjusted according to taste – start with less and add more if desired, as it's easier to make a martini dirtier than to dilute it once it's too briny.

Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is a sophisticated cocktail that combines the richness of coffee with the smoothness of vodka, creating a perfect balance between stimulant and spirit. Created in the 1980s by bartender Dick Bradsell, this drink has become a modern classic that appeals to both coffee enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados.

The key to a perfect Espresso Martini lies in using freshly brewed espresso and achieving the signature foamy crema on top. When properly shaken, this cocktail should have a luxurious layer of tiny bubbles floating on its dark surface, making it as visually striking as it's delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
• 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 3 coffee beans (for garnish)
• Ice cubes

Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool slightly. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add the vodka, coffee liqueur, simple syrup, and espresso. Shake vigorously for at least 20 seconds – this is crucial for creating the characteristic foam. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.

The cocktail should be served immediately while the crema is still fresh. Garnish with three coffee beans placed carefully on top of the foam. These three beans traditionally represent health, wealth, and happiness.

For best results, ensure all ingredients are properly chilled before mixing, and use quality vodka and fresh espresso. The espresso should be brewed right before mixing, though it needs a few minutes to cool down to avoid melting the ice too quickly. If you don't have an espresso machine, strong cold brew concentrate can be used as a substitute, though it won't produce quite the same foamy effect.

Lemon Drop Martini

The Lemon Drop Martini is a sophisticated cocktail that perfectly balances sweet and sour flavors, creating a refreshing and elegant drink. Originally created in the 1970s at Henry Africa's bar in San Francisco, this citrus-forward cocktail has become a modern classic that appeals to both seasoned martini drinkers and those new to craft cocktails.

The key to crafting the perfect Lemon Drop Martini lies in using fresh ingredients and maintaining proper proportions. The combination of vodka, fresh lemon juice, and triple sec creates a bright, clean taste that's smoothed out by simple syrup, while the sugared rim adds a delightful sweetness to each sip.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka (citrus vodka preferred)
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz triple sec
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Sugar for rimming
• Lemon twist for garnish
• Ice cubes

To prepare this cocktail, start by chilling a martini glass and coating its rim with sugar. Fill a shaker with ice cubes, then add vodka, fresh lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and properly diluted.

Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass, being careful not to disturb the sugared rim. Garnish with a twisted lemon peel, which not only adds visual appeal but also releases essential oils that enhance the drink's aroma.

For best results, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled alternatives, as this significantly impacts the final taste. The cocktail should be served immediately while still cold, and the sugar rim can be prepared in advance by running a lemon wedge around the glass edge and dipping it in fine sugar. If the drink is too sweet or sour for your taste, adjust the simple syrup amount accordingly.

Pomegranate Martini

The Pomegranate Martini is a sophisticated twist on the classic cocktail, combining the tartness of pomegranate with the smooth profile of premium vodka. This vibrant red drink has become increasingly popular at upscale bars and social gatherings, offering a perfect balance of sweet and sour notes.

Originally gaining popularity in the early 2000s, this cocktail variation maintains the elegant presentation of a traditional martini while incorporating the antioxidant-rich pomegranate juice. The result is a refined beverage that's both visually striking and delightfully refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz premium vodka
• 1 oz pomegranate juice
• ½ oz triple sec
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Pomegranate seeds for garnish
• Orange twist (optional)

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes until it's about two-thirds full. Pour in the vodka, pomegranate juice, triple sec, and fresh lime juice. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty and cold.

Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass, being careful to keep the ice in the shaker. If desired, float a few pomegranate seeds on top of the drink and add an orange twist for garnish.

For best results, chill the martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes before preparing the cocktail. Use fresh pomegranate juice rather than concentrate when possible, and adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of triple sec. Keep in mind that different vodka brands will affect the final taste, so choose a premium vodka for optimal results.

French Martini

The French Martini is an elegant cocktail that emerged in the 1980s during the cocktail renaissance. Despite its name, it was actually created in New York City and quickly became a sophisticated choice for martini enthusiasts who prefer a fruity twist on the classic recipe.

This cocktail combines the smoothness of premium vodka with the sweet and tart flavors of raspberry liqueur and pineapple juice. The combination creates a beautiful pink-hued drink that's both visually striking and deliciously balanced, making it perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to add a touch of sophistication to your evening.

• 2 oz premium vodka
• 1 oz Chambord (raspberry liqueur)
• 1 oz fresh pineapple juice
• Ice cubes
• Fresh raspberry for garnish

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Pour in the vodka, Chambord, and pineapple juice. Shake vigorously for about 20-30 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. This proper shaking technique is crucial as it helps create the signature foamy top layer that's characteristic of a French Martini.

Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass, being careful to achieve a nice frothy top. The cocktail should have a beautiful pink color and a silky smooth texture. Garnish with a fresh raspberry, either floating on top or secured to the rim of the glass.

For the best results, always use fresh pineapple juice rather than canned, as it provides a more authentic flavor and creates better foam. The cocktail glass should be thoroughly chilled before serving, and the ingredients should be kept cold as well. If Chambord is unavailable, another premium raspberry liqueur can be substituted, though this will slightly alter the classic taste profile.

Chocolate Martini

The Chocolate Martini is a decadent cocktail that transforms the classic martini into a dessert-worthy indulgence. This sophisticated drink combines the smoothness of vodka with rich chocolate flavors, creating a perfect balance between sweetness and strength.

While traditional martinis focus on gin or vodka with vermouth, this variation embraces the sweetness of chocolate liqueur and cream. The result is a silky-smooth cocktail that can serve as both an after-dinner drink and a liquid dessert, especially when garnished with chocolate shavings or a chocolate-dipped rim.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vanilla vodka
• 2 oz chocolate liqueur
• 1 oz white crème de cacao
• 1 oz heavy cream
• Chocolate syrup for rim
• Chocolate shavings for garnish
• Ice cubes
• Cocoa powder for rim (optional)

Pour chocolate syrup onto a small plate and cocoa powder onto another plate if using. Dip the rim of a chilled martini glass in the chocolate syrup, then into the cocoa powder if desired. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add vanilla vodka, chocolate liqueur, crème de cacao, and heavy cream to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled and slightly frothy.

Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass, being careful not to disturb the chocolate rim. Garnish with fresh chocolate shavings on top of the drink.

For best results, chill the martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before preparing the drink. The temperature of the ingredients is crucial – make sure all liquid ingredients are well-chilled, and use fresh heavy cream for the smoothest texture. The chocolate rim can be prepared in advance, but the cocktail should be served immediately after shaking to maintain its creamy consistency and proper temperature.

Appletini

The Appletini, a modern twist on the classic martini, gained popularity in the 1990s and has remained a beloved cocktail choice for those who prefer sweeter, fruit-forward drinks. This vibrant green cocktail combines the crisp taste of apple with premium vodka for a perfectly balanced libation.

While traditionally made with apple schnapps and vodka, many variations of the Appletini have emerged over the years, including versions using apple puree or fresh apple juice. The key to crafting the perfect Appletini lies in achieving the right balance between the sweet and tart elements while maintaining the drink's signature smooth texture.

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz green apple schnapps
• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
• Green apple slice for garnish
• Ice cubes

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes until it's about two-thirds full. Pour in the vodka, green apple schnapps, and fresh lemon juice. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass, ensuring no ice chips make it into the final drink.

The cocktail can be garnished with a thin slice of green apple, either floating on top or secured to the rim of the glass. For an extra elegant touch, you can create a spiral of apple peel and drape it over the edge of the glass.

For the best results, always use high-quality vodka and store your martini glasses in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can adjust the ratio of schnapps to vodka, but be careful not to overwhelm the cocktail's balance with too much sweetness. The garnish should be prepared just before serving to prevent the apple from browning.

Gibson Martini

The Gibson Martini is a sophisticated variation of the classic martini, distinguished by its signature cocktail onion garnish instead of the traditional olive or lemon twist. This simple substitution creates a uniquely savory cocktail that has been a favorite among martini enthusiasts since the early 1900s.

The drink allegedly got its name from Charles Dana Gibson, the creator of the Gibson Girl illustrations, though there are several competing origin stories. Regardless of its true origins, the Gibson Martini has secured its place as a refined cocktail that offers a subtle yet distinct departure from the classic martini.

Ingredients:

• 2½ oz gin or vodka
• ½ oz dry vermouth
• 2-3 cocktail onions
• Ice cubes

Begin by chilling a martini glass by filling it with ice water or placing it in the freezer for several minutes. In a mixing glass, combine the gin or vodka and dry vermouth with ice cubes. Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds until well-chilled. Empty the martini glass of ice water if used, then strain the cocktail mixture into the chilled glass.

Spear 2-3 cocktail onions on a cocktail pick and add them to the drink as a garnish. The cocktail onions should sink to the bottom of the glass, slowly infusing the drink with their subtle flavor as you sip.

For the best results, use high-quality cocktail onions preserved in vermouth or a similar spirit rather than standard pickled onions. The ratio of gin to vermouth can be adjusted to taste, with some preferring it drier (less vermouth) or wetter (more vermouth). Always serve the Gibson Martini immediately while it's still properly chilled.

Cosmopolitan Martini

The Cosmopolitan Martini, popularized in the 1990s through the TV show "Sex and the City," has become one of the most iconic cocktail variations in modern mixology. This sophisticated pink drink combines the smoothness of vodka with the tartness of cranberry juice and the citrus notes of triple sec and lime juice.

While technically not a true martini since it doesn't contain gin or vermouth, the Cosmopolitan Martini has earned its place in the martini family due to its elegant presentation in the classic V-shaped glass and its refined taste profile. The drink's perfect balance of sweet, tart, and strong flavors creates a memorable cocktail experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz vodka (citrus-flavored preferred)
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 1 oz triple sec
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
• Ice cubes
• Orange peel or lime wheel for garnish

Begin by chilling your martini glass by filling it with ice water or placing it in the freezer for about 5 minutes. In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and fresh lime juice. Add plenty of ice cubes to the shaker.

Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. Empty the ice from the martini glass and strain the cocktail mixture into it using a cocktail strainer to ensure no ice chips make it into the final drink. Garnish with either an orange peel or lime wheel.

For the best results, use fresh lime juice rather than bottled, and opt for a quality citrus vodka like Absolut Citron. The cranberry juice should be 100% juice rather than a cocktail mix, as this will provide better flavor and color without excessive sweetness. The drink should be served immediately while still cold, and the garnish should be fresh and aromatic to complement the cocktail's presentation.

Perfect Martini

The Perfect Martini is a sophisticated twist on the classic cocktail, striking an ideal balance between dry and sweet vermouth. This variation emerged in the early 20th century as discerning drinkers sought a middle ground between the Dry and Sweet Martini styles.

Unlike its counterparts, the Perfect Martini uses equal parts of both dry and sweet vermouth, creating a complex flavor profile that perfectly complements the botanical notes of gin. The result is a refined cocktail that offers both crispness and subtle sweetness in each sip.

• 2 oz gin
• 1/4 oz dry vermouth
• 1/4 oz sweet vermouth
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist or olive for garnish

Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes. Add the gin, dry vermouth, and sweet vermouth. Stir gently for about 30 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with either a lemon twist or olive, depending on personal preference.

For best results, ensure all ingredients are properly chilled before mixing, and use fresh vermouth that has been stored in the refrigerator. The quality of gin significantly impacts the final taste, so select a premium London Dry gin for optimal results. Store opened vermouth in the refrigerator and use within 1-2 months for the freshest flavor.