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B-52 cocktail in a shot glass
COFFEE LIQUEUR · SHOT GLASS · LAYER

B-52

★ 4.7 · 521 ratings in Cocktail Art

The B-52 is a classic layered shot named after the US B-52 Stratofortress bomber. It features three distinct layers of coffee liqueur, creamy Irish cream, and bright orange liqueur. Sweet, rich, and visually striking, it is a popular party drink that is often served flamed. Enjoy it as a decadent digestif or a festive celebratory shot.

  • IBA official
  • Shot
  • Sweet
  • Party
  • Digestif
  • GlassShot glass
  • MethodLayer
  • Time3 min
  • Strength≈ 20% ABV
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How to make a B-52

Layer it in a shot glass. About 3 minutes.

  1. Pour the coffee liqueur into a shot glass.
  2. Slowly layer the Irish cream liqueur over the coffee liqueur by pouring it gently over the back of a bar spoon.
  3. Carefully layer the Cointreau on top of the Irish cream using the same spoon technique.
  4. If desired, carefully flame the Cointreau layer and serve while the flame is still on, accompanied with a straw on a side plate.

Bartender’s tips

  • To get clean layers, pour the ingredients very slowly over the back of a cold spoon held just above the surface of the previous layer.
  • If you do not have Cointreau, you can substitute it with Grand Marnier, Triple Sec, or another dry orange liqueur.
  • Be extremely cautious if you decide to flame the top layer; use a heat-resistant glass and a long lighter for safety.

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If you enjoy the layered sweetness of the B-52, you might also want to try these similar drinks: B-54, Aperol Spritz, Death in the Afternoon, and Long Island Ice Tea.

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B-52 questions

What is the alcohol content of a B-52?

The B-52 has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of about 20%, making it a moderately strong shot due to the combination of liqueurs.

Can I substitute Cointreau in a B-52?

Yes, you can use Triple Sec, Grand Marnier, or another orange liqueur, though Grand Marnier is particularly popular for flaming due to its higher alcohol content.

How do you drink a flamed B-52?

If you flame the top layer, place a straw to the bottom of the glass and drink it quickly before the straw melts, or blow out the flame before drinking.