The Breakfast Martini Cocktail Recipe

Created by Salvatore Calabrese at the Lanesborough Hotel in London it is one of a number of cocktails to use jam as an ingredient and is similar to the Marmalade Cocktail found in the 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book. The Breakfast Martini is a modern cocktail classic created by world-renowned mixologist Salvatore Calabrese. Known for its unique fusion of breakfast flavours and classic Martini sophistication, this cocktail combines gin, orange marmalade, triple sec, and freshly squeezed lemon juice to create a perfectly balanced, citrus-forward drink. Ideal for brunch or a morning indulgence, the Breakfast Martini captivates with its vibrant aroma, silky texture, and elegant presentation. Mastering this cocktail requires attention to detail, from choosing a high-quality gin to balancing the marmalade’s sweetness with the tartness of lemon juice. In this guide, we provide the original recipe and precise preparation steps, along with expert tips to ensure every pour delivers the iconic taste Calabrese intended.

The Breakfast Martini has secured its place as a modern classic in contemporary mixology, celebrated for its vibrant balance of flavours and playful sophistication. Invented by the acclaimed bartender Salvatore Calabrese in the early 2000s, this cocktail quickly became a brunch favourite in London and soon gained international recognition. Unlike traditional martinis, the Breakfast Martini draws inspiration from breakfast flavours, combining the crisp botanicals of London Dry Gin with the sweet, tangy notes of orange marmalade and the refreshing zest of fresh citrus.

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Crafting this cocktail begins with blending gin, Cointreau or Triple Sec, orange marmalade, and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a shaker with ice. Shaken vigorously until frothy and well-chilled, the mixture is strained into a chilled martini glass and finished with a twist of orange peel, adding both aroma and visual elegance. The result is a drink that is simultaneously sweet, citrusy, and aromatic, offering a sophisticated yet approachable experience for brunch or casual gatherings.

Serving the Breakfast Martini at its freshest is key to enjoying its full flavour profile. Using smooth marmalade and fresh citrus juice ensures perfect balance, while pairing the cocktail with brunch staples like smoked salmon, croissants, or seasonal fruit elevates the overall experience. This inventive blend showcases the creativity of modern bartending, transforming familiar breakfast flavours into a refined cocktail that delights both the palate and the eye. The Breakfast Martini remains a testament to contemporary cocktail artistry, combining culinary inspiration with expert mixology to create a drink that is as memorable as it is delicious.

Breakfast Martini

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. marmalade

• 1 ¾ oz of gin

• ½ oz of Grand Marnier, or Curaçao or Cointreau

• ½ oz of aperitif wine

• ½ oz of lemon juice

• Ice cubes

• Add a strip of orange zest for garnish

Assembly

Place the spoonful of marmalade with ice into a cocktail shaker and stir to dilute. Add the remaining ingredients and shake well. Double-strain the cocktail into a Martini Coupe glass. Garnish with orange zest.