Ask anyone to name a shooter, and the first thing they’ll likely come up with is a B-52. For some reason, this ubiquitous shot is universally admired and downed in one-go by partiers around the globe.
The B-52 bomber that lends its name to the shooter was built by Boeing to carry nuclear weapons during the Cold War. It never actually dropped any, but continues to play a key role in the US Airforce after sixty years of continuous service. It’s expected to stay in active use for another thirty years, so just like the shooter, it’s got some pretty impressive staying power. Ironically, it was actually named after the B-52s, a popular band in the 1980's.
The key to making a perfect B-52 shot is to keep the cocktail layers separate by pouring the alcohol into the glass over the back of a spoon. It’s the same technique you use for making any layered drink, like a Traffic Light or a Nuclear Rainbow. If you want to set it on fire, add a splash of Bacardi 151 rum but use a nice long straw and keep your lips away from the flame.
Here’s how to make a B-52 shooter:
Ingredients
- 1/3 shot Kahlua
- 1/3 shot Bailey’s Irish Cream
- 1/3 shot Triple Sec or Grand Marnier
Preparation
- Pour the Kahlua gently into the bottom of a shot glass
- Pour the Bailey’s over the back of a cocktail spoon into the glass, being careful not to mix the liquids
- Add a layer of Triple Sec or Grand Marnier on top, using the back of a spoon to keep the distinctive bands of colour separated
Equipment
- Shot glass
- Cocktail spoon
