15 Best Martini Recipes for the Happiest of Happy Hours
It's James Bond's drink of choice for a reason. 🍸
Every item on this page was chosen by an editor from The Pioneer Woman. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Of all the best cocktails out there, few evoke the sophisticated air of a martini. James Bond put this cocktail on the cultural map as his drink of choice, and it's since become an American favorite for any occasion, from date night to super bowl parties. And despite its chic rep, here's a secret: the best martini recipes are easy to make!
So, how to make a martini? Well, that really depends on the type you want: The classic ratio of a "dry" martini is one part vermouth to six or seven parts gin or vodka. A wet martini is a little sweeter and has equal parts vermouth and gin or vodka. Then there's a dirty martini, which can be dry or wet and contains a splash of olive brine. And don't forget an olive for garnish! Finally, you can choose to have it shaken or stirred. Martinis are one of the most versatile cocktails out there, you have plenty of variations to choose from. Here, you'll find the classic recipe as well as popular adaptions, including an espresso martini, chocolate martini, and lemon drop martini. Want to channel your inner Pioneer Woman? Mix up a butterfly martini made with gin, St Germain, Crème de Violette, and hibiscus bitters—it's on the menu at Ree Drummond's pizzeria! Now go forth and shake things up at your happy hour.
Butterfly Martini
A pretty floral cocktail is the perfect drink for a get-together with the girls or a Valentine's Day date. Once you take a sip of this concoction with elderflower liqueur and hibiscus rose syrup, you'll never go back.
Chocolate Martini
The two best guilty pleasures: dessert and cocktails. A chocolate martini is the best of both worlds! Drizzles of chocolate syrup and twists of chocolate shavings make this easy martini an impressive date night drink.
Espresso Martini
Espresso martinis are the perfect post-dinner cocktail... and coffee! It satisfies that post-dinner sweet craving and offers a caffeine kick to keep the party going.
Pumpkin Pie Martini
It doesn't need to be fall to enjoy this cocktail. Made with real pumpkin, the best part of this cocktail is the dollop of frozen whipped cream that melts into a heavenly foam topping.
Caramel Apple Martini
What's better than a caramel apple? A caramel apple martini! Rim the glass with caramel or cinnamon sugar to get an extra kick of sweet or spice with every sip.
Get the recipe at Inspired by Charm.
Baileys Mint Martini
This Baileys peppermint martini is perfect for St. Patrick's Day, Christmas, or any special occasion. Plus, the recipe only calls for four ingredients!
Get the recipe at Lemon Tree Dwelling.
Love Potion #9 Martini
A romantic date night is perfect for serving this Love Potion #9: a triple berry pomegranate martini topped with cherry hearts. Finish with a simple dry ice trick that really ups the martini game.
Get the recipe at The Cookie Rookie.
Appletini
If you want a sweet and tart apple martini, try an appletini (yes, that is its super cute name). This drink gets its great color and flavor from apple liqueur and lemon juice. Don't forget an apple ring for garnish!
Get the recipe at Taste of Home.
Peach Raspberry Martini
Simple, sweet, and fresh: this recipe is perfect for summer happy hour or a night in with the gals. This recipe adds a dash of almond extract to balance the sweet mix of raspberry, sliced peaches, and simple syrup!
Get the recipe at A Classic Twist.
Lemon Drop Martini
Lemon drop martinis are one of the most popular sweet variations out there. Add a lemon twist to the rim and make your home feel like a fancy cocktail bar.
Get the recipe at Preppy Kitchen.
Cucumber Martini
Muddled cucumber is the key ingredient to making this fresh cocktail. It also includes honey-infused Barr Hill Gin, which has a strong juniper flavor profile, but you can also use your own favorite brand.
Get the recipe at Preppy Kitchen.
Lychee Martini
Lychee lovers go crazy for this fun drink! Not only does the lycheetini have an adorable name, but it also features the amazing floral notes of the lychee fruit. Your reward for finishing the drink: Popping the garnish in your mouth afterward!
Get the recipe at Wok and Skillet.
Strawberry Thyme Martini
The flavors of strawberry and thyme fuse together to create a fresh cocktail hour favorite. Nothing looks quite as fancy as an herby garnish!
Get the recipe at Inspired by Charm.
Fruity Martini
Not only is this drink berry delicious, it's made with four simple ingredients (plus, ice). Just make sure to scoop the strawberry slices out of the shaker after straining into your glass.
Get the recipe at My Forking Life.
Extra Dirty Martini
Some people like their martinis dirty, and some like them extra dirty. If you're in the latter category, try this fantastic, extra dirty martini. This blogger also offers the option to roll your olives in crushed red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
Get the recipe at How Sweet Eats.
Watch Ree Use Her 'Surprise Favorite' Shot Glasses
The Most Popular Fall Flavors by State
How To Make A Peach Smoothie
Blueberry Mojitos Are A Summery Twist On A Classic
