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B-52
Cocktail recipe

Rating

3.61 / 5
The B-52 is a popular layered shot that delivers a rich and creamy flavor profile with a delightful interplay of coffee and citrus notes. Comprised of equal parts Bailey's Irish ... more The B-52 is a popular layered shot that delivers a rich and creamy flavor profile with a delightful interplay of coffee and citrus notes. Comprised of equal parts Bailey's Irish Cream, coffee liqueur, and orange liqueur, the cocktail combines the sweetness and creaminess of Bailey's with the deep, roasted flavors of coffee liqueur and the sweet, bitter complexity of the orange liqueur. The result is a decadent, multi-layered drink often served in a shot glass and appreciated as much for its visual appeal—a striking separation of colors—as for its smooth, indulgent taste. The B-52 is a favorite for those looking to enjoy a drink with both aromatic appeal and a comforting, dessert-like character.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Bailey's
Alcohol content
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17.33% | 1.04 units *

Shot glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Bailey's cocktail ingredient
Bailey's
20ml ⅔oz 2cl
Coffee liqueur cocktail ingredient
Coffee liqueur
20ml ⅔oz 2cl
Orange liqueur cocktail ingredient
Orange liqueur
20ml ⅔oz 2cl

Method
How to make a B-52

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Pour the Kahlúa into the shot glass
Carefully add Baileys to create a layer on top
Then carefully pour Grand Marnier onto that as the final layer and serve
~ If you're too scared to drink it while with a straw while alight, put out the fire by smothering it quickly with your hand (don't try to blow it out). If you do want to attempt the straw, make sure to move fast, otherwise it can result in injury. ~

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Layer  · 

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FAQ's

ORIGINS_HISTORY

What is the origin of the B-52 cocktail?

The B-52 cocktail is believed to have been invented in the late 1970s by Peter Fich, a head bartender at the Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada. The name B-52 is a reference to the American B-52 Stratofortress bomber, and it is thought to have been inspired either by the band of the same name or directly from the bomber, to signify the drink's 'bomb' layers.

PREPARATION_TECHNIQUES

How is the B-52 cocktail layered?

The B-52 is layered by carefully pouring each ingredient over the back of a spoon or directly onto the previous layer. This technique prevents the ingredients from mixing, creating distinct layers. Typically, the order is coffee liqueur at the bottom, followed by Bailey's, and then orange liqueur on top.

SERVING_SUGGESTIONS

What is the best way to serve a B-52?

The B-52 is best served in a shot glass as a layered shot, and it can be enjoyed as is or sometimes set aflame before drinking (blow out the flame before consuming). To preserve the layers, it should be served immediately after preparation.

ALCOHOL_CONTENT_COMPARISON

How does the alcohol content of a B-52 compare to other cocktails?

With an alcohol content of 17.33%, the B-52 is relatively moderate when compared to some stronger cocktails, which can have alcohol content of 25% to 40% or higher. It is designed more for its layered flavor profile rather than high alcohol content, making it a popular choice for a flavorful shot experience rather than a heavy drink.

INGREDIENT_SUBSTITUTIONS

Can I substitute one of the liqueurs in a B-52?

Yes, substitutions are possible, although they will alter the classic taste. For coffee liqueur, alternatives like espresso vodka may be used for a more caffeinated kick. For Bailey's, other Irish creams can substitute. Orange liqueur might be replaced with a similar citrus-flavored liqueur, though this will significantly change the flavor profile. Keep in mind, substitutions may also affect the drink's layering ability.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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