Creme Brulee Martini

This Creme Brulee Martini is a smooth, indulgent dessert cocktail inspired by the classic French pudding. It has a silky texture with rich vanilla, gentle caramel notes, and a subtle warmth from the vodka. Despite its elegant feel, this recipe is simple to make and ideal for beginners. From start to finish, it takes about 10 minutes and requires no cooking.

Ingredients

For the martini

• 50 ml vanilla vodka
• 25 ml caramel vodka
• 25 ml Irish cream liqueur
• 25 ml single cream
• 10 ml caramel syrup

For the glass rim

• 1 tbsp caramel sauce
• 2 tbsp caster sugar

For garnish

• A pinch of brown sugar
• Vanilla pod or caramel shard, optional

Method

Preparing the glass

Dip the rim of a chilled martini glass into caramel sauce, then into caster sugar to coat evenly. Set aside while you prepare the drink.

Mixing the martini

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the vanilla vodka, caramel vodka, Irish cream, single cream, and caramel syrup. Shake firmly for about 15 seconds until well chilled and smooth.

Assembling and finishing

Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass. Sprinkle a small pinch of brown sugar on top. If you like, carefully caramelise the sugar with a kitchen torch for a classic creme brulee finish. Garnish with a vanilla pod or caramel shard before serving.

Tips

How do I get the smoothest texture?

Shake the cocktail thoroughly with plenty of ice. This chills the drink quickly and helps blend the cream evenly.

Can I make it sweeter or less sweet?

Yes. Adjust the caramel syrup to taste. Start with less and add more if needed.

Do I need a kitchen torch?

No. The torch is optional and mainly for presentation. The martini tastes just as good without caramelising the sugar.

What vodka works best?

Vanilla vodka gives the most authentic dessert flavour, but plain vodka can be used with extra caramel syrup.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a dessert drink after dinner
• Pair with shortbread or biscotti
• Offer alongside chocolate or vanilla desserts

Storage

Room temperature

This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh and should not be stored at room temperature once mixed.

Refrigerator

You can mix the liquids without ice and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice just before serving.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream can split and affect the texture.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Sodium: 55 mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make this martini alcohol free?

You can replace the vodkas with vanilla syrup and caramel syrup, and use extra cream. The flavour will be similar but without alcohol.

Is this the same as a classic creme brulee?

No. This is a cocktail inspired by the dessert, capturing its vanilla and caramel flavours.

Can I use dairy free cream?

Yes. A barista style oat or coconut cream works well, though the flavour will change slightly.

How do I stop the cream from curdling?

Always shake with ice and avoid acidic ingredients. Fresh cream also makes a big difference.