Pornstar Martini Recipes
If you haven’t heard of a pornstar martini by now, you must have been living in Mars. Every day, hundreds of pornstar martinis are made in bars and clubs across the UK. A staple in any cocktail menu, the pornstar martini is one of the classics. Bright yellow, served with a side shot of Prosecco, and bursting with sweet passionfruit flavour – the Pornstar Martini is a real showstopper.
At Mr Flavour, we’ve served thousands of these golden beauties at weddings, birthday parties, and private events. It’s fun, flirty, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
So today, we’re going all-in on the Pornstar Martini. From the original recipe to our twists, history, top tips, and serving ideas: consider this your complete goto guide.
What Is a Pornstar Martini?
Despite the provocative name, the Pornstar Martini is pure fun in a glass. It’s a vodka-based cocktail, with passionfruit, vanilla, lime, and a shot of bubbly Prosecco on the side.
It’s tropical. It’s sweet. It’s tangy. And it’s got that wow factor
Any cocktail served with a shot of fizz just gives it that extra USP that is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser too
The Story Behind the Pornstar Martini
A Star is Born: The Alluring History of the Pornstar Martini
Every great cocktail has a story, and the Pornstar Martini’s tale is as captivating as its flavour. Contrary to what its provocative name might suggest, the cocktail was born not in a clandestine club but in the sophisticated Knightsbridge bar, Townhouse, in London, in the early 2000s. The mastermind behind this creation was the celebrated bartender Douglas Ankrah.
The combination of vanilla vodka, fresh passion fruit, passion fruit liqueur, and a shot of Champagne (or Prosecco) on the side was an instant hit. It was innovative, offering a complex yet perfectly balanced flavour profile that was both fruity and decadent. The unique serving ritual – the cocktail in a martini glass with half a passion fruit floating on top, accompanied by a separate shot of sparkling wine – added an element of theatre and interaction that further boosted its appeal.
“Bold, Sexy and Playful”
Doug Ankrah on the naming of the Pornstar Martini
Fast forward to today, and the Pornstar Martini has become one of the top-selling cocktails in the UK – beating even classics like the Mojito and Espresso Martini.
The History of the cocktail
The Pornstar Martini, a modern classic that has become a staple on cocktail menus across the world. The cocktail has a fascinating history dating back to the late 1990s. Originating from the creative mind of Douglas Ankrah, a renowned drinks and bar consultant, this cocktail has evolved into a beloved icon in British cocktail culture. Douglas Ankrah passed away in 2021
Douglas Ankrah, the Founder of the Pornstar Martini
Douglas Ankrah, not just a mixologist but a visionary in the world of drinks, made his mark in 1996 with the London Academy of Bartending (LAB). LAB became a breeding ground for aspiring bartenders, and soon, Douglas opened the LAB bar in Soho in 1999. Later, Townhouse in Knightsbridge played a crucial role in establishing the Pornstar Martini’s fame. Ankrah’s legacy extended beyond mixology; he was passionate about creating income streams for bartenders and challenging the industry norm. Ankrah was regarded as a ‘pioneer’ for bartenders worldwide.
How the Pornstar Martini Got Its Name
The intriguing name comes from it’s distinct taste. In 2002, during a visit to Cape Town and influenced by the vibrant atmosphere of the Mavericks Gentlemen’s Club, Ankrah conceptualised the cocktail. He initially named it the Maverick Martini but later found the moniker lacked the bold, sexy, and playful essence he sought. Renaming it the Pornstar Martini, Ankrah aimed to capture attention and create a drink that embodied the spirit of a pornstar – provocative, playful, and tongue-in-cheek. Ankrah referred to the cocktail as ‘something a pornstar would drink’
Controversies of the Pornstar Martini
Over the years, the cocktail’s name has stirred controversies, with instances like the 2019 complaint against Marks & Spencer (M&S) leading to a name change to Passion Star Martini. Despite occasional controversies, the drink’s popularity has endured, with variations like Passionfruit Martini emerging to avoid potential issues.
The Original Recipe
Now, let’s dive into crafting the perfect Pornstar Martini with the original recipe created by Douglas Ankrah.
Original Recipe:
Ingredients for a pornstar martini:
- 50ml Vanilla Vodka
- 12.5ml Passion Fruit Liqueur
- 25ml Passion Fruit Puree
- 1 tsp Vanilla Sugar
Method:
- Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well-chilled and combined (about 20 seconds).
- Strain into a martini glass and garnish with half a passionfruit.
- Serve with a shot of bubbles (Prosecco) on the side.
Alternative Recipes:
For those seeking variations, consider experimenting with alternative ingredients like different fruit liqueurs, flavored vodkas, or unique sweeteners. The versatility of the cocktail allows for creative adaptations with variations including white rum instead of vanilla vodka.
The Flavour Profile of the Pornstar
The Pornstar Martini boasts a unique flavour profile that combines the sweet-tartness of passion fruit with the smoothness of vanilla-flavored vodka. The addition of Prosecco provides the perfect palate cleansing accomplice.
When the Pornstar Martini Gained Popularity
Introduced in 2002 at Townhouse, the cocktail gained rapid popularity, becoming a favorite among London’s cocktail enthusiasts. Its success can be attributed to its launch in prime party spots like LAB and Townhouse, as well as the influence of LAB graduates who spread the cocktail across the city.
The Evolution of the Maverick Martini to the Pornstar Martini
Initially known as the Maverick Martini, inspired by Ankrah’s experiences in Cape Town, the cocktail’s transformation to the Pornstar Martini occurred upon Ankrah’s return to London. The change in name and the cocktail’s evolution captured the ambience of London’s vibrant cocktail scene in the early 2000s.
The Future of the Pornstar Martini
As the cocktail continues to hold its place as one of the most popular drinks in the UK, the Pornstar Martini’s future looks bright. Its embedded presence in British cocktail culture ensures its longevity, with bartenders likely to keep innovating and creating new riffs on this modern classic. The Pornstar Martini symbolises bartending culture with a blend of boldness, playfulness, and a touch of cheekiness, making it a timeless favorite for cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. Our team have created countless Pornstar’s for events for over 10 years and hope to continue for the next 10 years!
The Classic Pornstar Martini Recipe
Let’s get to the main event. Here’s how to make the classic Pornstar Martini – the way we do it at Mr Flavour.
What You Need:
- 50ml Vanilla Vodka
- 25ml Passionfruit Purée
- 15ml Passoa (Passionfruit Liqueur)
- 15ml Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 10ml Vanilla Sugar Syrup
- 1 Passionfruit (cut in half)
- Prosecco (served in a shot glass on the side)
- Ice
Step-By-Step Method:
- Chill Your Glass
Pop your martini or coupe glass in the freezer to chill. - Mix the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, add the vanilla vodka, passionfruit purée, Passoa, lime juice, and vanilla syrup. - Add Ice & Shake Hard
Add cubed ice to your shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds. - Strain & Pour
Double strain the mixture into your chilled martini glass to get a smooth texture. - Garnish & Serve
Float half a passionfruit on top and serve with a chilled shot of Prosecco on the side.
Finesse Tip: Take the shot first, after, or in between sips – there’s no “right” way!
Where to Buy Pornstar Martini Ingredients
You can find most ingredients at your local supermarket or online:
- Vanilla Vodka: Absolut Vanilia, Stolichnaya Vanilla, or Ciroc French Vanilla
- Passionfruit Purée: Funkin, Monin, or make your own by blending fresh passionfruit. Heres a great DIY Youtube Video
- Passoa: Widely available at major retailers
- Vanilla Syrup: Try Monin, or make your own with vanilla extract and sugar
Mr Flavour’s Pornstar Martini Twist 🍸
As event mixologists, we like to add a little flair to the classic. Here’s a signature Mr Flavour Pornstar Martini you can serve at parties for something extra special:
What You Need:
- 40ml Grey Goose Vanilla Vodka
- 25ml Passionfruit Purée
- 20ml Aperol (for a hint of bitterness)
- 15ml Fresh Lime Juice
- 10ml Vanilla Syrup
- 2 Drops of Orange Bitters
- Passionfruit & Edible Glitter for garnish
- Prosecco on the side
This version adds depth and balance – it’s still tropical, but with a refined bitterness that cuts through the sweetness.
Pornstar Martini Without Alcohol (Mocktail Version)
Often known as a passionfruit martini, here’s how to make a Pornstar Mocktini that goes down way too easy.
What You Need:
- 50ml Passionfruit Purée
- 25ml Pineapple Juice
- 15ml Vanilla Syrup
- 10ml Lime Juice
- Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Wine (e.g., Nosecco or Noughty)
- Passionfruit Half for garnish
Method:
Shake the juices and syrup over ice, strain into a chilled glass, and serve with the non-alcoholic fizz on the side. It’s juicy, tangy, and every bit as fancy.
5 Fun Twists on the Pornstar Martini
Want to keep things exciting? Here are five delicious Pornstar Martini variations to try:
1. Tropical Pornstar
Add 10ml coconut cream and 25ml pineapple juice for a beachy twist. Garnish with a pineapple wedge.
2. Spicy Pornstar Martini 🌶️
Infuse your vodka with chilli or add a dash of chilli syrup for a subtle fiery kick.
3. Berry Pornstar Martini
Add muddled raspberries or a dash of Chambord for a berrylicious take.
4. Frozen Pornstar Slushie
Blend all the ingredients with crushed ice for a summer-ready frozen cocktail.
5. Champagne Pornstar
Upgrade your Prosecco shot to Champagne for ultra-lux vibes at your next celebration.
What Food Goes With a Pornstar Martini?
This cocktail isn’t just a pre-dinner delight – it’s a flavour bomb that pairs beautifully with certain dishes.
Best Food Pairings:
- Sushi & Sashimi – Passionfruit balances the umami and freshness
- Crispy Calamari – Zesty lime cuts through the fried coating
- Grilled Chicken Skewers – Tropical notes enhance savoury spices
- Cheesecake or Fruit Tarts – Vanilla & passionfruit match perfectly with desserts
Cool Ways to Serve Pornstar Martinis at Parties
Hosting an event? Impress your guests with these stylish serving ideas:
🍸 Mini Pornstar Martinis
Serve in miniature coupe glasses for tasting trays.
💫 Glitter Rims
Dip glass rims in edible glitter or coloured sugar for a glam finish.
🍾 Prosecco Towers
Create a mini Prosecco shot pyramid for an epic photo moment.
🎨 Colour-Changing Ice Cubes
Use butterfly pea flower tea ice cubes that change colour as they melt!
Top Tips to Make the Perfect Pornstar Martini
- Use Quality Vanilla Vodka: It’s the base flavour – don’t skimp!
- Don’t Forget to Double Strain: Removes pulp for that silky texture.
- Chill Everything: Glasses, Prosecco, even your ingredients – it matters.
- Shake Hard: You want that top layer of froth for extra appeal.
- Taste & Adjust: Want it tangier? Add more lime. Sweeter? More syrup.
Why the Pornstar Martini Is Still So Popular in 2025
Here’s why this cocktail isn’t going anywhere anytime soon:
- Looks Amazing: That floating passionfruit and side shot? Insta-ready.
- Tastes Delicious: Perfect balance of sweet and sour.
- Versatile: Can be dressed up, twisted, or made alcohol-free.
- Perfect for Events: Whether it’s a hen do, wedding or birthday – it fits all occasions.
At Mr Flavour, it’s one of our most requested cocktails for private bar hire, mobile cocktail classes, and wedding receptions.
Want to Serve Pornstar Martinis at Your Event?
Mr Flavour offers cocktail bar hire, mobile mixology services, and bartender packages all across the UK. Our expert bartenders will bring the shaker action and create bespoke pornstar martinis (and more) for your guests.
Whether you want a classy welcome drink or a cocktail masterclass, we’ve got the tools and talent to elevate your event.
➡️ Get in touch with us today and let’s make your party unforgettable.
Final Sip: Time to Master the Pornstar Martini
Now that you’ve got the knowledge, it’s time to put it into action. Whether you’re a party host, cocktail enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good drink – the Pornstar Martini is a must-mix.
It’s flirty. It’s fabulous. It’s full of flavour.
Grab your shaker, pick up some passionfruit, and get pouring. Your guests will thank you.
🍸 Cheers from the Mr Flavour team!
FAQs: Pornstar Martini Edition
Q: Do you drink the Prosecco shot first or last?
A: Totally up to you! Some sip between sips, some use it as a chaser. There’s no wrong way.
Q: Can I use regular vodka instead of vanilla vodka?
A: You can, but you’ll miss out on that signature vanilla note. Add vanilla syrup if needed.
Q: What’s the best non-alcoholic substitute for Passoa?
A: Try passionfruit juice or Monin Passionfruit Syrup for flavour without the alcohol.
Q: How do I batch Pornstar Martinis for a group?
A: Use the same ratios (5:2.5:1.5:1) and mix in a large jug without ice. Shake each portion fresh.