A Chocolate Manhattan is a smooth, rich twist on the classic cocktail, blending the warmth of whiskey with deep chocolate flavors. It’s a little indulgent, a little sophisticated, and just the right amount of sweet. If you love whiskey and have a soft spot for chocolate, this drink is a must-try. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it never fails to impress—especially as an after-dinner treat. Let’s make one together!
Chocolate Manhattan
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) whiskey – Bourbon works great if you prefer a slightly sweeter taste
- 1 oz (30ml) sweet vermouth – Adds a touch of balanced sweetness
- 1 oz (30ml) chocolate liqueur – Choose dark chocolate liqueur for a deeper flavor
- 2 dashes chocolate bitters – Enhances the chocolate notes
- Ice – Enough to fill your mixing glass
- Chocolate-covered cherry – For garnish
Glass: A chilled martini glass or coupe glass works best to showcase the drink’s rich color.
How to Make a Chocolate Manhattan
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Pour in the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and chocolate liqueur.
- Add two dashes of chocolate bitters.
- Stir well for about 30 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a chocolate-covered cherry.
Tip: Chilling your glass beforehand keeps the drink colder longer and enhances the flavors.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- You can mix the ingredients ahead of time and store in the fridge for a few hours. Just stir with ice before serving.
- Leftovers? Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Ways to Customize Your Chocolate Manhattan
Want to tweak the flavor? Try these swaps:
- Use bourbon instead of rye whiskey for a slightly sweeter, smoother finish.
- Swap chocolate liqueur for dark chocolate liqueur if you prefer a richer, deeper chocolate taste.
- Try dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth for a less sweet, more balanced cocktail.
Chocolate Manhattan Variations
Mint Chocolate Manhattan
- Add ½ oz (15ml) mint liqueur for a refreshing twist.
- Follow the original recipe, adding the mint liqueur before stirring.
Spicy Chocolate Manhattan
- Add a dash of chili bitters for a subtle heat.
- Prepare as usual, stirring in the chili bitters for a warm, spicy kick.
Orange Chocolate Manhattan
- Add ½ oz (15ml) orange liqueur for a citrusy contrast.
- Stir in the orange liqueur along with the other ingredients.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Want a Virgin Chocolate Manhattan? Swap the whiskey for non-alcoholic whiskey and use chocolate syrup instead of chocolate liqueur.
Food Pairings
A Chocolate Manhattan pairs beautifully with a few simple bites:
- Dark Chocolate – Enhances the rich cocoa flavors in the drink.
- Aged Cheese Platter – The contrast of savory cheese and sweet cocktail is perfect.
- Roasted Nuts – Almonds or pecans bring a lovely crunch and a hint of saltiness.
I love sipping this cocktail alongside a small plate of dark chocolate—it’s like dessert in a glass!
Bartender Tips
- Use a high-quality whiskey – The better the whiskey, the better the drink.
- Chill your glass – A cold glass keeps the cocktail crisp and smooth.
- Experiment with different chocolate liqueurs – Dark, milk, or even white chocolate liqueur can change the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best whiskey for a Chocolate Manhattan?
Bourbon adds sweetness, while rye brings a spicier kick. Either works—it depends on your taste!
Can I use dark chocolate liqueur instead of regular?
Yes! Dark chocolate liqueur makes the drink even richer and more intense.
Is this a dessert cocktail?
Absolutely. It’s sweet, smooth, and perfect after dinner.
What can I use if I don’t have a chocolate-covered cherry?
A regular maraschino cherry works, or try an orange twist for a different flavor.
Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes! Use non-alcoholic whiskey and chocolate syrup instead of chocolate liqueur.
A Chocolate Manhattan is a simple yet elegant cocktail that brings together the best of whiskey and chocolate. Whether you’re sipping it as a nightcap or serving it at a dinner party, it’s guaranteed to impress. Give it a try, and let me know how you like it!
