Strawberry Shortcake Martini

Discover the delicious Strawberry Shortcake Martini! Perfect for summer sipping. Drink responsibly and enjoy every sip!

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.

In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.

So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

A Modern Martini with a Sweet Twist

The martini has long been the symbol of elegance — traditionally made with gin and vermouth in the refined bars of 19th-century Europe. But as cocktail culture evolved, so did the martini. Today, playful dessert-inspired riffs are just as celebrated as the classics.

The Strawberry Shortcake Martini is one of those modern creations. It combines the sweet nostalgia of strawberries, the creamy richness of liqueur, and a vanilla-infused kick — all served up in a frosty martini glass. Think of it as dessert and cocktail rolled into one.

Strawberry Shortcake Martini Recipe (AU Measurements)

Ingredients

45 ml Vanilla vodka
30 ml Cream liqueur (Baileys or similar; swap for coconut/almond liqueur if dairy-free)
60 g Fresh strawberries, muddled or pureed
15 ml Triple sec (optional, for a citrus lift)
Ice
Garnish: Fresh strawberry, whipped cream, or crushed shortbread biscuit rim

Method

Muddle or puree the strawberries until smooth.
Add vanilla vodka, cream liqueur, strawberry puree, and (optional) triple sec to a shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously until well chilled.
Strain into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with a strawberry, a swirl of whipped cream, or even a crushed biscuit rim for that “shortcake” finish.

✨ Bartender Tip: Fresh strawberries are a must. Frozen can work in a pinch, but fresh fruit gives better colour, aroma, and flavour.

Variations & Customisations

The beauty of the Strawberry Shortcake Martini is that it’s versatile. Here are a few ways to experiment:

Nutty twist – Add 15 ml amaretto for a warm almond undertone.
Frozen version – Blend with crushed ice for a summer slushie.
Mocktail style – Swap vodka and liqueur for vanilla syrup + strawberry juice + soda.
Berry mix – Add raspberries or blackberries to create seasonal depth and colour.

Food Pairings

Because this cocktail is indulgent and dessert-like, it pairs beautifully with:

Mini cheesecakes or strawberry tarts
Almond shortbread or biscuits
Dark chocolate desserts
Fresh berry platters for a lighter option

Why This Cocktail Works

The Strawberry Shortcake Martini isn’t just a novelty. It’s a great example of modern mixology meeting comfort flavours. It has balance:

Sweetness from strawberries & cream liqueur
Warmth from vanilla vodka
Brightness from optional citrus notes
Nostalgia in every sip

It’s whimsical, but still a proper martini — proof that cocktails can be both fun and sophisticated.

Thanks for joining us behind the bar!

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days?
What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?
Let’s connect and continue the conversation!

Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/