B52 Cocktail Recipe

B52 Nutrition Facts

Calories:160

Fat:3g

Protein:1g

Carbohydrates:17g

Alcohol:13%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

August 9, 2023

History

The B52 cocktail is a layered shot that was invented in the 1970s by Peter Fich, a head bartender at the Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada. It is named after the B-52 Stratofortress bomber used by the United States Air Force. The cocktail gained popularity in the 1980s and has since become a classic.

  • The B52 is often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink or a party starter
  • The cocktail's layers represent the different colors of a B-52 bomber's tail flames
  • It is best served in a shot glass, allowing the layers to be clearly visible

How B52 Tastes?

The B52 cocktail has a rich, sweet, and creamy taste with a hint of coffee and orange flavors. It is smooth and warming, making it a perfect sipping drink.

Interesting facts about B52

  • The B52 is a member of the 'pousse-café' family of layered cocktails
  • The cocktail's layers are created by carefully pouring each ingredient over the back of a spoon, which helps to maintain the distinct layers
  • The B52 can also be served as a 'flaming B52', where the top layer of the drink is set on fire

Ingredients

Recipe. How to make B52 Drink

  1. Prepare the shot glass: Use a clean, dry shot glass
  2. Layer the Kahlúa: Carefully pour 15ml of Kahlúa into the shot glass
  3. Layer the Baileys Irish Cream: Slowly pour 15ml of Baileys Irish Cream over the back of a spoon, so it floats on top of the Kahlúa
  4. Layer the Grand Marnier: Finally, pour 15ml of Grand Marnier over the back of a spoon, so it floats on top of the Baileys Irish Cream

Pro Tips

  • Use chilled ingredients: This will help maintain the layers and improve the taste.
  • Pour slowly: The key to perfect layering is to pour each ingredient slowly over the back of a spoon.
  • Serve immediately: The B52 is best enjoyed immediately after it's made.

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What you could change in B52

  • Kahlúa: Can be replaced with any coffee liqueur.
  • Baileys Irish Cream: Can be substituted with any cream liqueur.
  • Grand Marnier: Can be replaced with any orange-flavored liqueur.

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Frequently Asked Questions on B52

Can I mix the layers of the B52 cocktail or should they remain separate?

The B52 cocktail is traditionally served with all ingredients layered separately. The layering effect is part of the experience of this cocktail. However, some people might prefer to stir the layers before drinking.

What other drinks belong to the 'pousse-café' family of layered cocktails?

Other drinks in the 'pousse-café' family include the Rainbow cocktail and the Angel's Tip.

Can I make the B52 cocktail without alcohol?

Given that all main components of the B52 cocktail are alcoholic beverages, it's hard to replicate its taste and appearance without alcohol. However, you may experiment with coffee, cream and orange juice to try and simulate the flavors.

What types of occasions is the B52 cocktail appropriate for?

The B52 cocktail is often enjoyed at parties and casual gatherings. It is also a popular after-dinner drink in some cultures.

Is it safe to try the 'flaming B52' at home?

Care must be taken when setting any drink on fire. Unless you're experienced with flaming drinks, it is safer not to attempt at home.

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