Chocolate Manhattan Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Chocolate Manhattan recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Whisky
Alcohol 28%
Calories 210 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 11g
Prep time 5 minutes

Are you ready to make the perfect Chocolate Manhattan and enjoy a refreshing cocktail experience? The Chocolate Manhattan is a delicious twist on the classic Manhattan, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the smoothness of whiskey. In this article, we’ll explore its history, taste, ingredients, and more. Join us on this flavorful journey and discover how to craft this delightful drink! ⬇️

History

The Chocolate Manhattan was created by mixologists who wanted to add a sweet twist to the traditional Manhattan. It blends the old-school charm of the original cocktail with the rich, comforting taste of chocolate. This drink has become a favorite for those who love both whiskey and chocolate.

  • The name “Chocolate Manhattan” comes from combining the classic Manhattan cocktail with chocolate liqueur.
  • It was first popularized in upscale bars in New York City.
  • The drink has evolved to include various chocolate flavors, from dark to milk chocolate.

The taste of a Chocolate Manhattan?

A Chocolate Manhattan tastes like a smooth blend of whiskey and rich chocolate, with a hint of sweetness from the vermouth. It’s a perfect balance of strong and sweet flavors.

I personally love drinking Chocolate Manhattans because they have a unique and comforting taste.

Interesting facts about Chocolate Manhattan

  • It is often garnished with a chocolate-covered cherry.
  • Some variations use chocolate bitters for an extra layer of flavor.
  • It’s a popular choice for dessert cocktails.

Ingredients 📃

  • Whiskey: 2 oz (60ml)
  • Sweet vermouth: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Chocolate liqueur: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Chocolate bitters: 2 dashes
  • Ice: As needed
  • Chocolate-covered cherry: For garnish

A Chocolate Manhattan is best served in a **martini glass** because it showcases the drink’s rich color and allows the aromas to be fully appreciated. An alternative glass could be a **coupe glass**.

Recipe. How to make Chocolate Manhattan 🍹

  1. Fill a mixing glass with *ice*.
  2. Add *2 oz (60ml) of whiskey*, *1 oz (30ml) of sweet vermouth*, and *1 oz (30ml) of chocolate liqueur*.
  3. Add *2 dashes of chocolate bitters*.
  4. Stir the mixture well until it’s chilled.
  5. Strain the mixture into a chilled **martini glass**.
  6. Garnish with a *chocolate-covered cherry*.

A Chocolate Manhattan can be high in sugar and calories due to the chocolate liqueur and sweet vermouth. To make a healthier version, you can use natural sweeteners or reduce the amount of chocolate liqueur.

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Food Pairings

Certain foods complement the flavors of a Chocolate Manhattan, making the drinking experience even more delightful.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the Chocolate Manhattan’s rich flavor, enhancing its chocolatey notes.

Cheese Platter

A cheese platter, especially with aged cheeses, balances the sweetness of the cocktail with savory flavors.

Nuts

Nuts like almonds or pecans add a crunchy texture and a slightly salty contrast to the sweet drink.

I really enjoy the taste of Chocolate Manhattans—the blend of whiskey and chocolate is just perfect.


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Bartender Advice

  • Use a high-quality *whiskey* to enhance the overall flavor.
  • Chill your *glass* before serving for a more refreshing experience.
  • Experiment with *different types of chocolate liqueur* to find your favorite blend.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Chocolate Manhattan, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Chocolate Manhattan

  • Whiskey: Can be replaced with bourbon for a sweeter flavor.
  • Chocolate liqueur: Try using dark chocolate liqueur for a richer taste.
  • Vermouth: Use dry vermouth for a less sweet version.

Chocolate Manhattan Variations

Mint Chocolate Manhattan

  • Ingredients: Add a splash of mint liqueur.
  • Recipe: Follow the original recipe but add the mint liqueur before stirring.

Spicy Chocolate Manhattan

  • Ingredients: Add a dash of chili bitters.
  • Recipe: Follow the original recipe but add the chili bitters before stirring.

Orange Chocolate Manhattan

  • Ingredients: Add a splash of orange liqueur.
  • Recipe: Follow the original recipe but add the orange liqueur before stirring.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, you can make a Virgin Chocolate Manhattan by using chocolate syrup and non-alcoholic whiskey. Mix the ingredients as you would with the alcoholic version.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of whiskey is best for a Chocolate Manhattan?

Using a high-quality whiskey, like bourbon or rye, enhances the drink’s flavor profile and complements the chocolate liqueur.

Can I use dark chocolate liqueur instead of regular chocolate liqueur?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate liqueur will give your Chocolate Manhattan a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.

Is a Chocolate Manhattan a dessert cocktail?

Yes, it can be enjoyed as a dessert cocktail due to its sweet and rich flavors.

What can I use as a garnish if I don’t have a chocolate-covered cherry?

You can use a regular maraschino cherry or even a twist of orange peel for a different flavor.

Can I make a Chocolate Manhattan without alcohol?

Yes, you can make a Virgin Chocolate Manhattan using chocolate syrup and non-alcoholic whiskey.

What food pairs well with a Chocolate Manhattan?

Dark chocolate, cheese platters, and nuts are great options to complement the flavors of a Chocolate Manhattan.

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

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