The classic B52 drink comes together in minutes, with coffee, cream, and orange liqueurs layered to perfection for a pretty party shot that tastes like dessert in a glass.
The Best B52 Drink
- Flavor: This shot has rich coffee sweetness, a silky vanilla cream center, and a zesty orange finish that’s as bold as it is smooth.
- Skill level: This recipe is beginner friendly with one simple spoon trick that you don’t need to be a bartender to master.
- Serving: Best served immediately for the best presentation. It is perfect for parties, holidays, or anyone who wants the eye catching look of a layered shot.
- Technique: Use a pousse-café layering technique for crisp, photo-ready stripes.
Ingredients That Layer Cleanly
- Coffee Liqueur: Kahlua is known for its heavy density, deep sugar-cane flavor, and notes of coffee.
- Irish Cream: Bailey’s is the standard for this creamy liquor. It’s density makes it the the most reliable to stay afloat on the coffee liqueur.
- Orange Liqueur: Stick with Grand Marnier because its brandy base gives it the right density to float on top. Cointreau is thinner and more difficult to layer.
Variations
- B-51: Replace the orange liqueur with Frangelico for a nutty hazelnut finish.
- B-53: Swap the Irish cream for Sambuca or another anise liqueur for a licorice flavored twist.
- B-54: Use Amaretto instead of orange liqueur for a toasted almond flavor.
- Dessert 52: Replace Irish cream with Tequila Rose for a pink middle layer and sweet strawberry taste.
How to Make a B52 Drink
- Pour coffee liqueur in first.
- Use a spoon held upside down to pour on the next layer. (Full recipe below.)
- Make the next orange layer in the same way.
Pro Layering Shortcuts
- Start with a cold shot glass to keep the layers from mixing and maintain crisp lines.
- Rest your pouring hand on the glass or your other hand to keep your pour smooth.
- Clean your spoon between layers to keep the shot clear and crisp.
- A slow pour creates sharp lines, while pouring too fast can break through the layer below.
- Pour along the inner wall of the glass rather than the center to preserve layers.
Chill, Store, Serve
Room Temperature Storage: Keep each liqueur in a cool, dark spot. Opened Irish cream stays good for 18 to 24 months.
No Pre-Mixing: The B52 drink can’t be made ahead of time or stored once poured. The layers will blend even in a short amount of time.
Leftover Spirits: Any extra liqueur can be added to coffee or used as a dessert topping.
Party Shot Favorites
Did you make this B52 Drink? Leave a comment and rating below.
B52 Drink
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ ounce coffee liqueur like Kahlua
- ½ ounce Irish cream liqueur like Baileys
- ½ ounce brandy-based orange liqueur like Grand Marnier
Instructions
- Pour coffee liqueur into a shot glass.
- Place a teaspoon or a bar spoon upside down at an angle just above the surface of the coffee liqueur. Very slowly pour the Irish cream liqueur over the back of the spoon (to create a layer that doesn’t mix with the coffee liqueur).
- Clean the spoon.
- Place the spoon just above the surface of the Irish cream liqueur. Very slowly pour the orange liqueur over the back of the spoon (to create a layer that doesn’t mix with the Irish cream).
- For a 2 ounce shot, use ⅔ ounce (20 ml) of each
Notes
- If you are really feeling adventurous, flambé the orange liqueur for up to one minute. Be very careful. Use a long reach lighter and ensure the glass is filled to the brim so the flame doesn’t overheat the glass walls and cause a crack.
- B52s are meant to be drunk all at once like a typical shot.
- The coffee liqueur goes on the bottom since it is the heaviest, then Irish cream liqueur, then orange liqueur on top. The difference in weight helps create distinct layers.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information does not include optional ingredients or garnish and is an estimate. It may change based on actual ingredients and cooking methods used.
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