The Pawn Star Martini, also known as the Pornstar Martini, has become a quintessential cocktail in the UK, captivating drinkers with its intoxicating passion fruit flavour and alluring name. This vibrant and shaken libation offers a delightful twist on the classic Martini, inviting imbibers to indulge in a unique and sophisticated drinking experience.
Key Takeaways
- Iconic UK cocktail with passion fruit flavour and provocative name
- Served with a shot of Prosecco on the side for the perfect “chase”
The Origin and Rise of the Pawn Star Martini
The Pawn Star Martini (or Pornstar Martini) was first created in 2003 by bartender Douglas Gilmour at Purl Cocktail Bar in London. Since then, it has become the UK’s favourite cocktail, renowned for its intoxicating passion fruit flavour and its provocative name. The Pawn Star Martini is often compared to the classic Martini, but with a shaken, fruity twist versus the traditional gin/vermouth stirred drink.

Crafting the Perfect Pawn Star Martini
The core recipe for a 2-serving Pawn Star Martini includes: 4 passion fruits (or 50ml puree/juice), 100ml vanilla vodka (e.g., Absolut Vanilia), 50ml Passoa passion fruit liqueur, 50ml fresh lime juice, and 90ml Prosecco on the side. Alternatives include using plain vodka with vanilla syrup (15ml), Licor 43 (50ml) for a vanilla twist, or Monin Vanilla Syrup (½ oz). Each serving of the Pawn Star Martini contains 437kcal, 54g carbs, 46g sugar, and 53mg Vitamin C.
Mixing the Perfect Pawn Star Martini
To create the perfect Pawn Star Martini, start by chilling martini glasses in the freezer. Then, scoop 4 passion fruits, sieve the juice, and add it to a shaker along with the vodka, Passoa, and lime. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds over ice, and double-strain the mixture into the chilled glasses. Garnish each drink with half a fresh passion fruit, and serve a shot of Prosecco alongside. The signature foam on top of the Pawn Star Martini is achieved through the ice dilution, without the need for egg.
Serving and Enjoying the Pawn Star Martini
When serving the Pawn Star Martini, present it in a chilled coupe or martini glass, with the shot of Prosecco (or Brut champagne, 2oz) in a separate glass. Garnish the drink with half a fresh passion fruit, which can be either floated or dunked into the cocktail. The ritual involves sipping the martini, eating the fruit, and then chasing it with the fizz. Variations can also include floating Prosecco in the hollowed-out passion fruit. For a contrasting experience, pair the Pawn Star Martini with appetizers like oysters.
Conclusion
The Pawn Star Martini, or Pornstar Martini, has become a beloved and iconic cocktail in the UK, captivating drinkers with its passion fruit-infused flavour and its provocative name. By mastering the art of crafting and serving this vibrant and shaken libation, you can elevate any cocktail experience and offer your guests a truly sophisticated and indulgent drink.
Sources:
The Only Pornstar Martini Recipe You’ll Ever Need – Amy Treasure
Pornstar Martini Cocktail Recipe – Malibu Drinks
Passion fruit martini recipe – BBC Good Food
Pornstar 43 – Licor43
Best Pornstar Martini Cocktail Recipe – Splash of Taste
Porn Star Martini Cocktail Recipe – Difford’s Guide
Pornstar Martini – Elevated Craft
Best Porn Star Martini Recipe – Delish