How To Make A Breakfast Martini Cocktail
The Breakfast Martini, A classic marmalade cocktail made with gin, marmalade, orange liqueur, and lemon juice, created by bartender Salvatore Calabrese. The drink was invented in 1996 at the Library Bar at the Lanesborough Hotel in London, England.
Being created in 1996, as far as classic cocktails go this one is quite modern, but a classic nevertheless… A modern classic some would say.
Gin and Marmalade Cocktail
A Unique Love Affair
Gin and marmalade – sounds like an odd couple, right? But trust me, when these two come together, it's a match made in cocktail heaven. The botanical notes of gin intertwine with the sweet, citrusy kick of marmalade, creating a symphony of flavors that will have you questioning why you haven't tried this combo sooner.
I vividly remember the first time a customer asked for a Breakfast Martini. I raised an eyebrow – gin and marmalade for breakfast? But one sip, and I was hooked. It's the kind of unexpected delight that keeps both bartenders and patrons coming back for more.
What is the History of the Breakfast Martini?
Morning-Inspired Origins
Now, let's peel back the layers of time and explore the breakfast martini's humble beginnings. The story goes that a creative bartender decided to shake up the traditional martini recipe by adding marmalade. Legend has it that this inventive twist was inspired by the flavors of a classic English breakfast.
As the cocktail gained popularity, it found its way into the hearts (and glasses) of cocktail enthusiasts around the world. It's funny how a simple experiment in a bar can turn into a global sensation.
Rise to Stardom
I've witnessed the breakfast martini's rise to stardom in my own bartending career. What started as a curious customer request soon became a staple on our menu. People were drawn to the novelty, and once they tasted it, they were hooked. It's a testament to the power of creativity in mixology.
Breakfast Martini Ingredients
The Heart of the Matter
Now, let's talk ingredients – the building blocks of this delightful concoction.
Quality Gin Selection
First and foremost, start with a quality gin. The botanicals in gin play a significant role in the flavor profile of the cocktail. I often recommend a London Dry Gin for its balanced and versatile nature, but feel free to explore other gins to find your perfect match.
The Role of Marmalade
Ah, marmalade – the unsung hero of the breakfast martini. The choice of marmalade can make or break your cocktail. I've had patrons rave about the richness of orange marmalade, while others swear by the zesty kick of grapefruit. It's all about personal preference.
Supplementary Ingredients for Balance
To round out the flavors, fresh lemon juice is a must. The citrusy brightness cuts through the sweetness of the marmalade, creating a well-balanced and refreshing sip. And of course, a touch of sweetener – simple syrup or triple sec – adds that final layer of complexity.
Breakfast Martini Variations
Get Creative in Your Lab
The beauty of the breakfast martini lies in its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to spice things up:
Gin Swaps
Experiment with different gins to discover new dimensions. A floral gin can add a subtle perfume, while a barrel-aged one brings depth and complexity. The possibilities are endless.
Marmalade Madness
Don't limit yourself to one type of marmalade. I once crafted a breakfast martini using a homemade passion fruit marmalade, and it was a tropical delight. Get adventurous with your fruit spreads.
A Breakfast Martini with Vodka
If Gin isn’t for you, try swapping out the gin in place for Vodka. The focus will shift more onto the marmalade. It’s a combo that still works beautifully.
Additional Ingredients for Complexity
Consider infusing your gin with herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist. Bitters can also play a role – a dash of orange bitters can amplify the citrus notes, while aromatic bitters add depth.
Tools and Glassware for the Breakfast Martini
Equipping Your Bartender Arsenal
Now, let's talk tools – the secret weapons of any bartender.
Shaker, Jigger, Strainer
A trusty shaker is your best friend when it comes to blending those flavors seamlessly. Use a jigger for precise measurements, and a strainer to ensure a smooth pour.
Glass Matters
Presentation is key. I usually opt for a coupe glass for the breakfast martini. The elegance of the glass enhances the overall drinking experience. It's not just a cocktail; it's a moment of indulgence.
The Art of Mixing the Breakfast Martini
Crafting Perfection in a Glass
Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of making the perfect breakfast martini.
Precision in Measuring
Measure your ingredients precisely. It's like baking – accuracy matters. I've often said that mixology is a bit like alchemy; the right ratios can turn simple ingredients into liquid gold.
Shaking Techniques
The shake is where the magic happens. Channel your inner bartender flair, but remember – it's not about theatrics; it's about achieving the desired texture. I've found that a vigorous shake helps emulsify the marmalade, creating a velvety mouthfeel. And if you don’t have a cocktail shaker, check out this cocktail shaker comparison before purchasing one so you know what you’re getting.
Tips for Personalizing Your Breakfast Martini
Finding Your Sweet Spot
The beauty of the breakfast martini lies in its adaptability. Like it sweeter? Add a touch more marmalade. Prefer a sharper kick? Up the lemon juice. I once had a regular who loved a hint of ginger syrup in his breakfast martini – a spicy surprise that became his signature drink.
Garnishing with Flair
A classic twist of citrus peel is the go-to garnish, but don't be afraid to get creative. I've garnished with a dehydrated slice of blood orange for a visually stunning effect. It's the little details that elevate a cocktail from good to extraordinary.
Breakfast Martini Video Recipe
Breakfast Martini Recipe
Breakfast Martini
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fill a coupe with ice to chill it, you can also stick it in the freezer if you have the space.
- In a cocktail shaker, add the Gin, Cointreau, Lemon juice and orange marmalade. Stir in the marmalade to break it up.
- Add ice to your shaker and shake vigorously. You really need to hard shake this to break up all marmalade and infuse it into the cocktail.
- Once you’ve given it a good Ol’shake. Dump your ice from the coupe or take it from the freezer and fine strain your Breakfast Martini into the perfectly chilled glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel on the rim and enjoy!
Notes
For the video recipe keep on scrolling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
101.86Fat
0.06Sat. Fat
0.01Carbs
2.44Fiber
0.09Net carbs
2.36Sugar
1.25Protein
0.09Sodium
1.23Cholesterol
0The nutritional information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice. See our full nutrition disclosure here.
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