B-52 Shot

The B-52 is a stunning three-layered shot that’s as beautiful to look at as it is popular. It’s made with equal parts Kahlúa coffee liqueur, Irish cream liqueur and triple sec, all built together to create a delicious and colorful treat.

In one word: Yum! The B-52 shot is deliciously sweet and creamy with zesty twist. You get the rich coffee flavor from Kahlúa, the smoothness from the Irish cream liqueur and citrus orange from the triple sec, in a unique layered taste experience.

Well, yes, but it’s not necessary. The top layer (triple sec) is typically ignited in the flaming ritual, but we recommend leaving this to the professionals and simply enjoy savoring the flavors instead. It’s just as delicious without.

Not quite. While both shots are made with Kahlúa and Irish cream liqueur, the B-52 has triple sec in it, giving it that unique citrusy taste. Check out the recipe here.

Yes, because one of the three ingredients is Kahlúa coffee liqueur, which is made from 100% Arabica coffee beans. But since Kahlúa is sweet, and so is the Irish cream liqueur, the coffee taste isn’t overpowering.

We recommend using a clear shot glass to beautifully showcase the three layers. Oh, and make sure you chill your shot glasses OR your ingredients, since there’s no ice in it. No one likes a warm B-52 shot!

The B-52 shot is meant to be enjoyed in one sip. So that’s what we suggest, since the layers mix slightly as you drink, giving you a smooth and flavorful experience.

The B-52 shot doesn’t have a strong alcohol taste compared to other shots, as it’s made with liqueurs that have a lower alcohol content than spirits like vodka or whiskey. However, it still packs a flavorful punch.

It only takes a couple of minutes to create the shot. But we recommend taking your time with the pouring to get that perfect layered look. Don’t rush it.

It’s easy enough for beginners, just slowly pour in each layer on the back of a spoon. Remember, the Kahlúa goes on the bottom since it’s the heaviest liqueur, then the Irish cream liqueur, then the triple sec on top. The difference in density keeps the layers distinct.

We say Kahlúa is the most popular option for its smooth and distinct coffee taste (since it’s made with 100% Arabica coffee beans). This is also balanced with the perfect amount of sweetness and density needed to create a solid foundation that prevents the layers mixing in the glass.

Yes, our cocktails pros recommend experimenting with flavored versions of the B-52 by using different types of Kahlúa (like Kahlúa Blonde Roast or Kahlúa Salted Caramel), or by swapping the triple sec with other citrus or fruit liqueurs for a unique twist. Get creative with it!

We can’t tell without seeing how you made it. But it could depend on what brands of alcohol you use, as they have different sugar content and densities. Another reason could be that the pouring wasn’t slow enough. If it’s the second reason, then don’t worry, practice makes perfect.