Sometimes, a satisfyingly sweet cocktail is the perfect way to cap off a great meal, and right now, our post-dinner libation of choice is the pistachio martini. This indulgently creamy dessert-in-a-cocktail glass is a no-brainer for pistachio lovers.
Made with vodka, pistachio liqueur, simple syrup and heavy cream, the pistachio martini occupies the same sphere as the espresso martini and Negroni as far as phenomenal after-dinner drinks go—especially with its daintily decorated honey-and-pistachio rim.
This is a drink to serve with dessert at the end of a small party, a cozy dinner for two, or really whenever you decide the occasion calls for it. Enjoy a pistachio martini around the holidays (the silky smooth texture hits the spot when it’s chilly out), or sip one in the height of summer. It’s exquisite year-round.
Pistachio Martini Ingredients
- Pistachio liqueur: The best pistachio liqueurs come from Italy and have a velvety texture and balanced sweetness. They’re sweet, nutty and utterly divine.
- Vodka: With its neutral taste, vodka adds a boozy bite while stepping back to let the pistachio liqueur dominate.
- Heavy whipping cream: This tipple’s thick, luxurious texture is all thanks to heavy whipping cream. Need a dairy-free option? Swap it for coconut cream or cashew cream for double the nutty goodness.
- Simple syrup: This cocktail sweetener is made from a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. It’s a cinch to make, and you can use it in other mixed drinks.
- Honey and pistachios: Honey and finely chopped pistachios are optional garnishes that will jazz up the rim. This pistachio martini recipe is delicious without the embellished rim, but if you want to impress folks with your cocktailing skills, it’s worth the extra step.
Directions
Step 1: Rim the glass (optional)
If desired, coat the rim of the martini glass with honey, and dip the rim in the pistachios.
Editor’s Tip: Gently but firmly press the rim into the pistachios to ensure the nuts adhere.
Step 2: Combine the cocktail ingredients
Fill a shaker half full with ice. Add the pistachio liqueur, vodka, heavy whipping cream and simple syrup.
Step 3: Shake and strain
Secure the lid, and shake for 10 to 15 seconds, until condensation forms on the outside of the shaker. Strain the martini into the cocktail glass.
Editor’s Tip: Condensation on the outside of your cocktail shaker is the telltale sign your drink is perfectly chilled.
Pistachio Martini Variations
- Make a chocolate-pistachio martini: Add 1 ounce white, dark or milk chocolate liqueur to the shaker. Shaved chocolate is an oh-so-delicious decadent garnish for this variation.
- Add some Baileys: Add 1 ounce Baileys to the recipe to make a Baileys-pistachio martini.
- Use flavored vodka: Vanilla and caramel vodka are phenomenal swaps for standard vodka. You could use raspberry or any citrus variety, too. Here’s a tip: Orange and pistachio are a highly underrated match made in heaven.
Can you make pistachio martinis ahead of time?
As a general rule, shaken cocktails taste best when they’re enjoyed immediately. That said, pistachio martinis are absurdly easy to batch and only take a few minutes to make. Rim the cocktail glasses with honey and chopped pistachios, and chill them in advance to save time. Our batch cocktail recipes will come in handy if you’re hosting a gathering and want to focus on socializing during party time.
Pistachio Martini Tips
What can you serve with pistachio martinis?
Chocolate of every variety pairs well with pistachio, so consider making complementary chocolate recipes to go with the martinis, such as white chocolate raspberry bars, chocolate lava cakes or chocolate mousse. Bright, zesty citrus and orange desserts are a lighter option that also complement the flavors in a pistachio martini. Of course, like-for-like is another option. Sweet pistachio recipes like pistachio biscotti or honey-nut swirls tick all the right boxes. Or skip dessert entirely, and stick to knocking back a pistachio martini (or two) solo.
How do you make simple syrup for pistachio martinis?
Simple syrup is behind the sweetness in all sorts of classic cocktails, from the old-fashioned and New York sour to the mojito and margarita. Make simple syrup by combining 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water in a saucepan and cooking over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Take the pot off the heat, and let the simple syrup cool before breaking out your cocktail shaker. Homemade simple syrup lasts about a week in the fridge.
