Breakfast Shot Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Breakfast Shot recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Whisky
Alcohol 14%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 10g
Prep time 2 minutes

Do you ever wonder what magic a Breakfast Shot can add to your mornings or brunch gatherings? This vibrant cocktail is a symphony of flavors that promises to invigorate your taste buds and start your day on a high note. Here, we’ll dive into its rich history, tantalizing taste profile, and how to craft one with finesse. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey that will transform your cocktail craft. ⬇️

History

The Breakfast Shot cocktail, while modern in its popularity, has roots that trace back to the playful experimentation of bartenders looking to capture the essence of breakfast in a glass. Its name and concept reflect a desire to fuse the invigorating spirit of the most important meal of the day with the conviviality of cocktail culture.

  • Originally, the Breakfast Shot was a whimsical creation by a bartender inspired by traditional breakfast flavors.
  • It gained popularity in the 2010s, spreading rapidly through social media and word of mouth.
  • The name itself evokes a sense of morning refreshment and curiosity, inviting drinkers to reimagine breakfast.

The taste of a Breakfast Shot?

Imagine the sweet, caramel notes of maple syrup blending seamlessly with the sharp, refreshing kick of citrus—all rounded off with the smooth, comforting warmth of whiskey. The Breakfast Shot is a delightful paradox, combining flavors you’d never expect to meet in a glass.

I find the Breakfast Shot irresistibly delightful because it’s like drinking sunshine and happiness in a single gulp.

Interesting facts about Breakfast Shot

  • Despite its name, the Breakfast Shot is enjoyed at all times of day, not just mornings.
  • It often features a side of bacon or a slice of orange, adding to its breakfast appeal.
  • The cocktail has inspired various spins and adaptations, each adding a unique twist to the original recipe.

Ingredients 📃

  • Whiskey: 1.5 oz (45ml)
  • Butterscotch liqueur: 0.5 oz (15ml)
  • Orange juice: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Bacon strip or orange slice for garnish

The perfect glass for serving a Breakfast Shot is undoubtedly the shot glass, offering a quick, intense burst of flavor that’s best enjoyed in one swift sip. The narrow design enhances the aroma, making each sip a more immersive experience. Alternatively, a small tumbler can also be suitable, especially if you prefer to savor the drink slowly.

Recipe. How to make Breakfast Shot 🍹

  1. Pour 1.5 oz (45ml) of whiskey and 0.5 oz (15ml) of butterscotch liqueur into a shaker filled with ice.
  2. Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into a shot glass.
  4. Serve immediately with a side of orange juice and a slice of bacon or an orange slice for garnish.

While indulging in a Breakfast Shot, it’s important to remember moderation. This cocktail, like many others, contains sugar and calories, especially from the butterscotch liqueur and orange juice. For a healthier twist, consider using natural sweeteners or a sugar-free version of butterscotch liqueur, and always be mindful of the potential health impacts of alcohol consumption.

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Food Pairings

Certain foods can elevate the experience of enjoying a Breakfast Shot, complementing its rich and varied flavor profile.

Classic American Breakfast

The savory flavors of eggs, bacon, and toast create a harmonious balance with the sweet and citrus notes of the Breakfast Shot, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Fruit Salad

A fresh fruit salad, with its sweet and tangy flavors, pairs wonderfully with the citrusy undertone of the cocktail, offering a refreshing contrast.

French Toast

The sweet, syrupy goodness of French toast complements the butterscotch and whiskey flavors in the Breakfast Shot, creating a decadent breakfast pairing.

I just can’t get enough of Breakfast Shots; they make every sip feel like a celebration of the new day.


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Bartender Advice

  • Chill your glasses before serving to keep the drink cool and refreshing.
  • Experiment with different brands of whiskey to find your perfect match.
  • Always serve with a side of orange juice to balance the strong flavors.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Breakfast Shot, 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 Breakfast Shot

  • The type of whiskey can be swapped out for a smoother or more robust flavor profile.
  • Try different garnishes, like a sprig of mint or a cinnamon stick, for an aromatic twist.
  • Adjust the sweetness by using more or less butterscotch liqueur according to taste.

Breakfast Shot Variations

Maple Bacon Breakfast Shot

  • Ingredients: Add maple-flavored whiskey and a crispy bacon strip.
  • Recipe: Follow the original recipe, substituting maple-flavored whiskey for regular whiskey.

Spicy Sunrise Breakfast Shot

  • Ingredients: Add a dash of hot sauce to the orange juice.
  • Recipe: Mix the hot sauce with orange juice and serve it on the side of the shot.

Vanilla Dream Breakfast Shot

  • Ingredients: Use vanilla vodka instead of whiskey.
  • Recipe: Combine vanilla vodka with butterscotch liqueur and serve with a side of cream soda instead of orange juice.

For those preferring a non-alcoholic treat, a Virgin Breakfast Shot can be just as delightful. Mix butterscotch syrup with fresh orange juice and serve it chilled. Garnish with an orange slice for that extra zesty flair.

Q&A

Can I make a Breakfast Shot without alcohol?

Absolutely! Substitute the whiskey with a non-alcoholic spirit or butterscotch syrup for a virgin version that’s just as tasty.

What’s the best time to serve a Breakfast Shot?

While it’s called a Breakfast Shot, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day, from brunch to evening gatherings.

Is there a way to make Breakfast Shots healthier?

Yes, you can use sugar-free butterscotch liqueur or natural sweeteners and opt for fresh, homemade orange juice to cut down on added sugars.

Can Breakfast Shots be prepared in advance?

They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can pre-mix the liquors and chill them ahead of time. Just add garnishes right before serving.

How do I choose the right whiskey for a Breakfast Shot?

Experiment with different brands and types of whiskey to find the one that suits your taste best. Consider starting with a smooth, mild whiskey if you’re new to this cocktail.

Are there any non-liquid garnishes that work well with a Breakfast Shot?

Yes, a slice of crispy bacon or a small, savory snack on the side can add an interesting contrast to the sweet and citrusy flavors of the shot.

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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