The Breakfast Shot with Bacon is a unique and delicious cocktail that perfectly blends sweet and savory flavors. This popular brunch drink combines Irish whiskey, butterscotch schnapps, and orange juice, served with a crispy bacon strip on the side. It delivers a pancake-like taste, making it a fun and flavorful addition to any breakfast or brunch gathering.
Originating as a creative take on morning cocktails, the Breakfast Shot has gained popularity in bars and home kitchens alike. Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up or a way to impress guests, this shot offers a balance of smooth, sweet, and smoky flavors.
In this guide, we’ll explore the history, ingredients, preparation steps, and variations of the Breakfast Shot with Bacon. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to make it even more delicious and what foods pair best with this crowd-pleasing drink
1. Origins of the Breakfast Shot
The Breakfast Shot with Bacon is a relatively modern cocktail, created as a fun and flavorful addition to brunch menus. While its exact origins are unclear, it is believed to have been inspired by the classic Irish Breakfast, which features whiskey, orange juice, and bacon—staples that perfectly complement each other.
The shot gained traction in bars and pubs across the United States, particularly in areas known for their vibrant brunch culture. It was likely developed as a playful twist on morning flavors, offering a unique way to enjoy whiskey in a lighter, more approachable form. The combination of butterscotch schnapps and whiskey mimics the taste of pancakes or maple syrup, while the orange juice adds a refreshing contrast. The crispy bacon garnish enhances the experience by providing a savory, smoky crunch.
Over time, bartenders and home mixologists have put their own creative spins on the recipe, experimenting with different whiskeys, flavored bacon, and additional ingredients like maple syrup or cinnamon. Today, the Breakfast Shot is a brunch favorite, enjoyed by those who appreciate a fun, indulgent drink that captures the essence of a hearty morning meal.
2. Key Ingredients and Their Roles
The Breakfast Shot with Bacon is a simple yet flavorful cocktail that relies on a carefully balanced combination of ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating its signature sweet and savory taste.
1. Irish Whiskey
- The base of the shot, Irish whiskey, provides a smooth, slightly oaky flavor with subtle vanilla and caramel notes.
- It pairs well with butterscotch schnapps to create a rich, warming taste that mimics maple syrup or pancakes.
- Popular choices include Jameson, Bushmills, or Tullamore Dew for their mellow and approachable profiles.
2. Butterscotch Schnapps
- This sweet, buttery liqueur is essential for the shot’s pancake-like taste.
- It complements the whiskey by adding a rich caramel flavor, enhancing the drink’s breakfast theme.
- Some variations use maple-flavored liqueur for an even stronger breakfast vibe.
3. Orange Juice
- Served as a chaser, fresh orange juice provides a refreshing citrus contrast to the whiskey and schnapps.
- The tangy acidity balances the sweetness, making the shot smooth and easy to drink.
4. Crispy Bacon Strip
- The savory, smoky crunch of crispy bacon completes the experience.
- It enhances the shot’s breakfast theme while adding a salty contrast to the drink’s sweetness.
- Candied or maple-glazed bacon can be used for extra flavor.
3. Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making a Breakfast Shot with Bacon is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Follow these steps to create the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and refreshing flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Irish whiskey (Jameson, Bushmills, or Tullamore Dew)
- 1 oz butterscotch schnapps
- 2 oz fresh orange juice (as a chaser)
- 1 crispy bacon strip (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon Garnish
- Cook one strip of bacon until crispy. You can fry, bake, or air-fry it to your preference.
- For a sweet twist, brush the bacon with maple syrup or sprinkle brown sugar before cooking to create candied bacon.
- Once cooked, set it aside on a paper towel to remove excess grease.
Step 2: Mix the Shot
- Fill a shot glass with 1 oz Irish whiskey.
- Add 1 oz butterscotch schnapps on top. The combination of whiskey and schnapps creates a smooth, pancake-like flavor.
- Stir lightly if desired or serve layered for visual appeal.
Step 3: Pour the Orange Juice Chaser
- In a separate small glass, pour 2 oz of fresh orange juice.
- This acts as a chaser to cleanse the palate and balance the drink’s sweet and smoky notes.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Take the shot of whiskey and butterscotch schnapps first.
- Immediately follow with the orange juice chaser to enhance the maple and citrus flavors.
- Finish by eating the crispy bacon, adding a savory, smoky crunch to the experience.
4. Variations and Twists on the Classic Recipe
The Breakfast Shot with Bacon is already a delicious combination of sweet, smoky, and citrusy flavors, but there are many ways to customize it for a unique twist. Here are some creative variations to try:
1. Maple Pancake Breakfast Shot
- Substitute maple whiskey (like Crown Royal Maple or Knob Creek Smoked Maple) for Irish whiskey.
- Add a few drops of maple syrup to enhance the pancake-like taste.
- Pair with candied bacon for extra sweetness.
2. Spiced Breakfast Shot
- Use cinnamon whiskey (such as Fireball) for a warm, spicy kick.
- Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving.
- Serve with honey-glazed bacon for added flavor.
3. Chocolate Lover’s Breakfast Shot
- Replace butterscotch schnapps with chocolate liqueur (like Godiva or Kahlúa).
- Add a dash of coffee liqueur for a mocha-like flavor.
- Serve with chocolate-dipped bacon for an indulgent treat.
4. Vegan-Friendly Breakfast Shot
- Use coconut or almond whiskey as a dairy-free alternative.
- Swap the bacon for a coconut bacon strip (made from toasted coconut flakes with liquid smoke and maple syrup).
- Ensure all ingredients are vegan-certified.
5. Citrus Burst Breakfast Shot
- Instead of orange juice, try pineapple juice or grapefruit juice for a tangy twist.
- Garnish with a citrus zest rim for an extra refreshing taste.
These variations let you customize the Breakfast Shot to match different flavor preferences while keeping the fun, brunch-inspired experience intact!
5. Pairing the Breakfast Shot with Brunch Dishes
The Breakfast Shot with Bacon is a fun and flavorful drink that pairs perfectly with a variety of brunch dishes. Its sweet, smoky, and citrusy flavors make it a great companion for both savory and sweet breakfast options.
1. Classic Breakfast Favorites
- Pancakes & Waffles – The butterscotch schnapps and whiskey in the shot mimic the flavor of maple syrup, making it a great match for buttery pancakes and waffles.
- French Toast – A rich and custardy French toast pairs beautifully with the shot’s caramel and citrus notes. Try it with cinnamon or fruit toppings for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Savory Brunch Options
- Eggs & Bacon – Since the shot already features bacon, it naturally pairs well with a classic bacon and eggs breakfast.
- Breakfast Sandwiches – A hearty bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich balances the sweetness of the drink with its rich, savory ingredients.
3. Brunch Desserts & Pastries
- Cinnamon Rolls – The sweet, buttery flavors of butterscotch schnapps enhance the cinnamon and icing in a warm cinnamon roll.
- Muffins & Scones – A blueberry muffin or orange scone pairs well with the citrusy orange juice chaser.
6. Popularity in Bars and Restaurants
The Breakfast Shot with Bacon has become a fan-favorite in bars and restaurants, especially in establishments that serve brunch or offer creative cocktail menus. Its unexpected blend of ingredients—whiskey, butterscotch schnapps, orange juice, and bacon—makes it a conversation starter and a go-to choice for adventurous drinkers looking for something fun and flavorful.
Bartenders often promote the shot as a “brunch special” or weekend feature, capitalizing on its appeal as both a morning cocktail and novelty experience. Its versatility also plays a role in its popularity—guests can enjoy it as a pre-brunch treat, a round for the table, or even as a creative alternative to traditional mimosas and Bloody Marys.
The dramatic presentation—served with a crispy bacon strip on the side—adds to its charm, making it Instagram-worthy and ideal for social gatherings. In many bars, it’s one of those “must-try” items for first-timers, especially when served with candied or flavored bacon.
As brunch culture continues to grow, especially among millennials and Gen Z, the Breakfast Shot with Bacon is carving out its place as a signature cocktail in modern dining. It’s quirky, delicious, and perfect for starting the day with a little indulgence and a lot of flavor.
7. Nutritional Considerations and Responsible Consumption
While the Breakfast Shot with Bacon is a fun and flavorful treat, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation and be mindful of its nutritional content. Each shot typically contains around 150–200 calories, depending on the brands and proportions used. The butterscotch schnapps and orange juice add sugar and carbs, while the bacon contributes fat and sodium.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider using low-sugar orange juice, leaner bacon, or smaller portions. You can also try variations with lighter liqueurs or skip the bacon garnish if needed.
From a health standpoint, it’s best to treat this shot as an occasional indulgence, especially during social brunches or celebratory weekends.
Always practice responsible consumption, particularly when pairing alcohol with rich breakfast foods. Stick to recommended serving sizes, stay hydrated, and avoid overindulging—especially early in the day. Enjoy the experience, but know your limits!
FAQs: People Also Ask
Here are some common questions related to the Breakfast Shot with Bacon, sourced from the “People Also Ask” section on Google:
1. What is a breakfast shot made of?
A classic breakfast shot is made with 1 oz Irish whiskey, 1 oz butterscotch schnapps, and served with a 2 oz orange juice chaser and a crispy strip of bacon. The combination mimics the taste of pancakes with syrup and orange juice.
2. What is in a McGriddle shot?
The McGriddle shot is a playful variation of the breakfast shot. It typically includes maple whiskey or bourbon, butterscotch schnapps, and is sometimes topped with a splash of maple syrup or served with candied bacon. It’s named after the McDonald’s McGriddle sandwich due to its sweet-and-savory flavor.
3. What is the breakfast of champions shot?
This is a fun term used for the traditional Breakfast Shot with Bacon, but it can also refer to any shot that combines liquor with breakfast flavors—usually involving whiskey, schnapps, and orange juice. Some bars even include coffee liqueur or maple syrup for a richer taste.
4. What shot tastes like pancakes and syrup?
The Breakfast Shot (Irish whiskey + butterscotch schnapps + OJ + bacon) is famous for tasting like pancakes drizzled with maple syrup. The butterscotch and whiskey combination creates a warm, buttery flavor profile that mimics a classic breakfast plate.
Conclusion
The Breakfast Shot with Bacon is more than just a fun novelty—it’s a flavorful, creative cocktail that brings the essence of breakfast into a single, memorable experience. With its smooth blend of Irish whiskey and butterscotch schnapps, refreshing orange juice chaser, and the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon, this shot offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and citrus.
Its rising popularity in bars, brunch menus, and home gatherings proves just how much people enjoy playful, themed cocktails that are easy to make and fun to share. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore creative twists, the Breakfast Shot is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Remember to enjoy it responsibly, and pair it with your favorite brunch dishes for the ultimate morning indulgence. So next time you’re planning a brunch, consider serving this shot—because nothing says “good morning” quite like whiskey, bacon, and a little bit of sweetness.