B-52 Cocktail - ABV, Recipe & Taste Guide
ABV Technique Glass 용량
26% FLOAT SHOT 60ml

What is B-52?

The B-52 is a layered shot cocktail made with three liqueurs—Kahlúa, Baileys Irish Cream, and Grand Marnier—stacked in beautiful layers, with an ABV of approximately 25%.

Born in Canada in the 1970s and named after the famous B-52 bomber aircraft, this cocktail has become beloved worldwide for its stunning tricolor appearance and smooth, sweet taste.

Also famous in its "Flaming B-52" version, it's an excellent choice for those new to shot cocktails.

B-52 ABV

The B-52 has an ABV of approximately 25%, placing it in the medium range for shot cocktails.

Kahlúa (20%), Baileys (17%), and Grand Marnier (40%) are combined in equal parts, averaging about 25% alcohol.

It's smoother than straight whiskey or vodka (40%) but stronger than a Mojito (12%) or Piña Colada (15%). Thanks to its sweet flavor profile, it feels gentler than its alcohol content might suggest.

B-52 Ingredients

Coffee Liqueur
Baileys
Grand Marnier

B-52 Recipe

  1. Pour 20ml coffee liqueur into a shot glass.
  2. Slowly layer 20ml Baileys Irish Cream over the back of a bar spoon.
  3. Carefully layer 20ml Grand Marnier on top using the same technique.

Pour slowly and use a spoon to create clean, distinct layers.

B-52 Taste

The B-52 opens with the bright orange notes of Grand Marnier, followed by the creamy sweetness of Baileys that wraps smoothly around your palate.

Finally, Kahlúa's deep coffee flavor provides a lingering finish, with all three tastes blending harmoniously in your mouth.

Overall sweet and creamy, it's particularly suited for those who enjoy coffee and chocolate flavors. Highly recommended for those who dislike bitter tastes or strong alcohol burn, and perfect for first-time shot cocktail adventurers.

B-52 History

The B-52 was created in the 1970s at the Keg Steakhouse + Bar in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Bartender Peter Fich is credited with its invention, naming it after the popular Boeing B-52 Stratofortress bomber of that era.

The name suggests both "explosively strong" and the visual similarity between the cocktail's three layers and the aircraft's fuselage. In the 1980s, the flaming version emerged, spreading the B-52's fame as a party cocktail around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about B-52

What is the ABV of B-52?
B-52 has an alcohol content of approximately 26% ABV.
What glass is B-52 served in?
B-52 is traditionally served in a Shot glass.
How do you make B-52?
Carefully float the spirit on top using density differences to create layers.
How many calories are in a serving of B-52?
A 60ml serving of B-52 contains approximately 86 kcal. This estimate is based on alcohol content; sugars, syrups, or juices may increase the total.
What does B-52 taste like?
The B-52 opens with the bright orange notes of Grand Marnier, followed by the creamy sweetness of Baileys that wraps smoothly around your palate. Finally, Kahlúa's deep coffee flavor provides a lingering finish, with all three tastes blending harmoniously in your mouth. Overall sweet and creamy, it's particularly suited for those who enjoy coffee and chocolate flavors. Highly recommended for those who dislike bitter tastes or strong alcohol burn, and perfect for first-time shot cocktail adventurers.

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