B52 shot, or sometimes also noted as B-52 shot is a popular cocktail going around at the moment because of its visual appeal and its delicious taste. So, not many cocktails do this double and hence, B52 cocktail is one of a kind.
When we trace back to its history, many suggest it to be after the B-52 bomber plane, but it actually isn’t.
And the cocktail shot was created in the 1970s and the bartender who invented it seemed to have named it after the famous B-52 band.
Similar to the Duck Fart Shot, this classic cocktail is a layered cocktail shot, with Coffee Liqueur, Irish Cream and Orange Liqueur all going into the shot glasses.
Just imagine the taste of the combination of Coffee + Cream + Orange. Isn’t it mouth watering already?
The shot became an instant hit that led to several variations later on in the coming years, as usual with any hit recipe.
Ok, let us now have a look into the B52 Shot recipe.


B52 Shot Recipe

Equipment
- Shot glasses
- Bar Spoon
Ingredients
- ½ oz. (15 ml) Coffee Liqueur
- ½ oz. (15 ml) Irish Cream
- ¼ oz. (7.5 ml) Grand Marnier
Instructions
- Add Coffee Liqueur (1 part) at the base of the Shot glass.
- Then add Irish Cream above the Coffee Liqueur base as a layer by carefully using a spoon.
- Similarly add Grand Marnier on the top of Irish cream as the third layer.
- Serve and Enjoy the drink!
Video
Notes
Nutrition

Tips To Make B52 Shot
✅ Coffee Liqueurs are found in several brands, but in my suggestions, Kahlua is the go-to whenever you want to use one.
✅ If you are looking for a great B52, go for Bailey’s Irish Cream, period.
✅ When it comes to Orange liqueur, the traditional cocktail involves the high end Grand Marnier. However, you may use Cointreau or the Triple Sec. So, remember this – Grand Marnier > Cointreau > Triple Sec in terms of Quality and taste.
✅ As it is with any layering shot, use a bar spoon to layer the ingredients neatly and beautifully.
✅ But while drinking, just slam it.
Variation
Oh, well! There are so many. As mentioned in the Tips section, you can substitute each liqueur with any available brands. But for the best quality, go for what is suggested – Kahlua + Baileys + Grand Marnier.
And this drink became very popular that there arose several B’s like the B53, B54, Flaming B52 and more.
B53 shot – substitutes Irish Cream with Sambuca
B54 shot – substitutes Orange Liqueur with Amaretto
Flaming B52 – you know who. So add a fourth thin layer of overproof rum and flame it.
Related Drinks
- T52 - Coffee Liqueur + Tequila Rose + Grand Marnier
- Pink Panther Shooter - Creme de Cacao + Tequila Rose + Sweet Revenge
- Screaming Orgasm Shot - Vodka + Coffee Liqueur + Irish Cream + Amaretto
- Duck Fart Shot - Coffee Liqueur + Irish Cream + Crown Royal Whisky
Conclusion
B52 shot requires some level of skill to make but once mastered, you will never stop making it and drinking it, if possible daily.
A great tasting cocktail shot, B-52 shooter, or B52 bomber or B52 bomb, is a perfect treat for your guests. Also a fun dessert to have after your meals and even a fun shot to add in your party.