Last updated on June 4th, 2023
Don’t like the traditional dry martini? This fruity pineapple martini recipe includes Tuaca and amaretto liquers, vodka and pineapple juice.
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This recipe was originally published under the name the Gangster Martini.
When I was about fifteen years old, I watched the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s for the first time and instantly became obsessed with Audrey Hepburn. Puberty is so awkward, and I desired the nonchalant grace and quick wit Audrey’s character Holly Golightly portrayed in the movie. After watching Breakfast at Tiffany’s, I decided I was going to become a martini drinker as soon as I was old enough to drink. On my 21st birthday, my Dad decided to indulge me. He ordered a martini from a bar and let me take a sip.
Ehm, yeah. I’m not sure what I was expecting, but that wasn’t it. I liken it to what I would imagine kerosene would taste like. I think I may have gagged and I’m pretty sure I made a terrible face. Since then, I have since discovered there are about a million different varieties of martinis out there much more palatable, in my opinion, than the traditional dirty martini with olives. If you prefer a fruity martini like I do, Tuaca Pineapple Martini is for you.
What is Tuaca?
Tuaca (pronounced too-aa-kuh) is an Italian brandy liqueur. It has a sweet flavor accentuated with essences of citrus and vanilla. As of the date of this post, the Sazerac Company based out of Metarie, Louisiana, is the only producer
of the spirit, which is manufactured at their plant in Louisville, Kentucky. Prices will vary depending on where you live. A bottle of Tuaca in my area cost about $22.
In addition to this cocktail, it can be sipped straight or added as an enhancer to coffee, cocktails or apple cider. The Sazerac Company also has a few cocktail recipes using Tuaca here.
Other ingredients and tools you’ll need to make a Tuaca Pineapple Martini
- Amaretto – Also Italian in origin, amaretto is an almond flavored liqueur. Disaronno is probably the most familiar brand name of amaretto, thanks to some a marketing blitz in the 90’s and early 2000’s. However, other low-cost options are available. Your local liquor store should be able to make a recommendation.
- Vodka – Even though this is a vodka martini, the vodka is more of a supporting character. Since the Tuaca does tend to be a bit pricier, I opted for a good, low budget vodka like Burnett’s. Also, because we’re also combining the vodka with amaretto and pineapple juice, I felt like a higher end vodka would be wasted here. Other recommendations include Taaka, Grey Goose, Smirnoff or Seagram’s.
- Pinepple juice
- Marachino cherries and/or pineapple wedges – optional, for garnish.
- Cocktail shaker
- Measuring tool or cocktail jigger that measures ounces.
- Martini glass
How to make a Tuaca Pineapple Martini
Fill a shaker with ice cubes. Pour in one ounce of the Tuaca, one ounce of the amaretto, one ounce of vodka
and 1 ½ ounces of pineapple juice. Cover the shaker with a tight-fitting lid and shake until the liquids are combined and well chilled. Pour the cocktail into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with cherries and pineapple wedges, if desired.
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Tuaca Pineapple Martini
Ingredients
- 1 oz. Tuaca
- 1 oz. Amaretto
- 1 oz. vodka
- 1 ½ oz. pineapple juice
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
- Pour in liqueurs, vodka, and pineapple juice.
- Cover with a tight fitting lid and shake until combined.
- Pour into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with cherries if desired.
Delicious! So many rich flavors! First time I’ve ever used Tuaca in a cocktail and it’s wonderful!
Glad you enjoyed it, Lashelle!
I’m not a big martini drinker because I don’t like vermouth. This one was amazing!
Wow, this martini has a lot going on and the many flavors combine to make an interesting and wonderful cocktail! Definitely worth a try, but you might be hooked after one.
Delicious!!
Tastes just like Swig! Thanks!
The Soprano sounds like the drink for the summer.Thanks!
I turned 21 about 6 months ago, and I still have never had a martini. I am putting this on my list of things to try.
Oh yes. My first martini. That was quite an unfortunate experience. Since then I’ve learned, go fruity or don’t go there at all. The Soprano sounds delicious!