Last Updated on June 9, 2024 by Lydia Martin
After dinner cocktails are the perfect way to unwind and savor the moments after a big meal.
As someone who loves exploring mixed drinks, I’ve come to appreciate these after-dinner drinks for their complexity and the unique experience they offer.
So, if you’re searching for the best after-dinner drinks perfect for this holiday season, here are my recommended cocktails to elevate your dining experience!
Top 12 After Dinner Cocktails And Drinks To Sip
1. Chocolate Martini
The bitter-sweet Chocolate Martini is an irresistible choice for a rich and chocolatey end to your good meal.
“I like to have a Martini, two at the very most.” – Dorothy Parker, Writer & Poet
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 2oz Chocolate liqueur
- 1oz Ciroc Snap Frost
- 1oz Cream
- Chocolate syrup
Instructions: Shake the first three ingredients over ice. Then, strain into a Martini glass with a chocolate syrup drizzle.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★★★
2. Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini combines the richness of coffee with the vodka’s crispness – one of the best after-dinner drinks to sip!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 2oz Vodka
- 1oz Espresso
- 0.5oz Coffee liqueur
- 0.5oz Simple syrup
Instructions: Mix all the ingredients with ice, then strain into a chilled Martini glass. Garnish with coffee beans.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★★★
3. Brandy Alexander
Indulge in the creamy luxury of a Brandy Alexander, blending brandy with the smoothness of cream and the cocoa flavor.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 1oz Brandy
- 1oz Dark crème de cacao
- 1oz Cream
Instructions: Shake all the ingredients with ice. Filter into a chilled cocktail glass and sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg, if desired.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★★★
4. Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini
Combining hot chocolate and Martini, this frozen cocktail is a unique and indulgent choice for a perfect nightcap sip.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 10 mins
Ingredients:
- 1oz Chocolate liqueur
- 1oz Vodka
- 2tbsp Hot chocolate mix
- Mini marshmallows
Instructions: Blend all the ingredients with ice until smooth. Transfer into your Martini glass and garnish with marshmallows.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★★★
5. Classic Vodka Martini
The epitome of cocktail elegance, the Classic Vodka Martini is a simple yet sophisticated recipe to conclude your night meal.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 2oz Grey Goose
- 0.25oz Dry vermouth
- Olive
Instructions: Stir the liquids with ice and strain into a Martini glass. Garnish with an olive. (Tip: Swap dry vermouth with sweet vermouth if you like the sweeter version, and add some Green Chartreuse.)
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
6. White Russian
Like a dessert, the White Russian oozes with creaminess, making it a perfect after-dinner drink.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 2oz Absolut vodka
- 1oz Coffee-flavored liquor
- 1oz Heavy or whipped cream
Instructions: Pour Absolut and liqueur over ice in an Old Fashioned glass. Top with heavy cream and stir gently.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
7. Cherry Sazerac
A fruity twist on a classic cocktail, the Cherry Sazerac adds a hint of cherry for a unique dinner party drink.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 2oz Rye or Scotch whiskey
- 10.5oz Cherry liqueur
- 0.25oz Absinthe
- A few dashes of Orange bitters
- Sugar cube
Instructions: Muddle the sugar cube with bitters and liqueur. Add rye whiskey and ice, and stir well. Rinse a chilled glass with Absinthe and strain the cocktail.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
8. Mudslide
For those with a sweet tooth, the Mudslide is a dessert-like cocktail with a harmonious mix of chocolate and coffee flavors.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 1oz Absolut
- 1oz Coffee liqueur
- 1oz Bailey’s Irish cream liqueur
- Chocolate syrup
- Vanilla ice cream
Instructions: In a shaker, combine the first three ingredients with ice. Shake well and strain into a coupe topped with ice cream and drizzled with chocolate syrup.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
9. Cranberry Martini
The Cranberry Martini blends tart with a slightly sweet flavor, making it a perfect after-dinner drink.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 2oz Ketel One
- 1oz Cranberry juice
- 0.5oz Orange liqueur
- Fresh cranberries
Instructions: Combine all the liquids in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and filter into a chilled Martini glass. Garnish with fresh cranberries.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
10. Rusty Nail
Enjoy the simple sophistication of a Rusty Nail – a recipe with the perfect blend of Scotch and Drambuie, typically served on the rocks.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 1.5oz Scotch whisky
- 0.5oz Drambuie
Instructions: Pour Scotch and Drambuie into an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice. Stir gently.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
11. Bees Knees
A delightful mix of sweet and citrus, the Bees Knees is a perfect drink for a refreshing post-meal.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 2oz Gin
- 30.75oz Fresh lemon juice
- 0.5oz Honey syrup
Instructions: Shake all the ingredients with ice. Filter into a cocktail coupe and garnish with a lemon twist or an orange peel.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
12. After Supper
After Supper is one of the lightest and most citrusy after-dinner drinks, making it a refreshing and simple cocktail to end your night.
“Transform evenings with a cocktail.” – Liquor Laboratory
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Ingredients:
- 2oz Gin
- 1oz Grand Marnier
- 1oz Lime juice
Instructions: Shake gin, triple sec, and juice with ice. Filter into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with citrus peels, if desired.
Serving: 1
Star Rating: ★★★☆☆
Note: The star rating was determined based on every cocktail’s flavor balance, aroma, smoothness, ingredients quality, and ABV.
FAQs Related to after Dinner Cocktails
What are after-dinner cocktails?
After-dinner cocktails, also known as digestifs, are alcoholic beverages typically enjoyed following a meal. They’re designed to aid digestion and often feature complex flavors that complement the end of a dining experience.
What types of alcohol are commonly used in after-dinner cocktails?
After-dinner cocktails can feature a variety of spirits, including brandy, cognac, whiskey, rum, liqueurs, and fortified wines like port or sherry. These spirits are often chosen for their rich and warming qualities.
What are some classic after-dinner cocktails?
Classic after-dinner cocktails include the Brandy Alexander, Espresso Martini, Irish Coffee, Sazerac, and Port Flip. These drinks often incorporate ingredients like coffee, cream, chocolate, and spices to create indulgent and comforting flavors.
Can after-dinner cocktails be served neat or on the rocks?
While some after-dinner cocktails are traditionally served neat or on the rocks, many are served chilled or with ice to enhance their flavors and provide a refreshing finish to a meal. It ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific cocktail.
Are there any non-alcoholic options for after-dinner cocktails?
Yes, non-alcoholic after-dinner cocktails, also known as “mocktails,” can be enjoyed by those who prefer not to consume alcohol. Examples include virgin versions of classic cocktails like the Virgin Mary, Virgin Mojito, or non-alcoholic versions of coffee-based drinks.
Wrapping Up
After-dinner cocktails are more than just drinks; they’re a ritual, a way to savor the pleasure of a meal a bit longer.
From the creamy delight of a White Russian to the boldness of a Rusty Nail, there’s a cocktail for every palate.
So, the next time you dine out or host a dinner, serve one of these fabulous after-dinner drinks for a delightful and unforgettable evening!
References:
- Inside Molinari, The World’s No. 1 Sambuca Company
- Here’s The REAL Difference Between Brandy And Cognac
