The B-52

4bartenders.com (for bartenders, those who want to be and other scoundrels)

When you hear "B-52", chances are you either think about the WWII aircraft or the "B-52s" rock group who sang "Love Shack". ...and there may have been a few of you who thought of the B-52 Cocktail.

The B-52 is a very picturequese, choco-sophisticaticated and a nice after dinner sipping cocktail. What makes it so unique is its tri-layering of liquors that compliment each other.

The B-52 is normally made in a shot glass and many indulge in imbibing it as a shot (or shooter). But is can also be made in either a rocks glass or a short brandy sniffer. ...while the taste is magnificent, the presentation is the toughest part of making this cocktail correctly.

RECIPE: The B-52

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1 oz Kahlua

1 oz Bailey's Irish Cream

1 oz Grand Marnier

Instructions:

- a small shot glass (approx. 3 oz) with no ice is required

- carefully pour in the Kahlua first, as it is the heaviest and will sit at the bottom of the glass.

- now carefully and slowly pour in the Bailey's Irish Cream, either down the side of the glass or slowly dripped onto the back-side of a small spoon on top of the Kahlua

- and finally, carefully and slowly pour the Grand Marnier (similiarly to how the Bailey's was poured/dripped) into the glass.

- let sit a moment to ensure all liquors are properly separated ...then sip (or shoot it!)

Substitutes/variations:

* use rocks glass or small brandy sniffer; use same ratio/proportions

* for effect, you can carefully light on fire the top layer of Grand Marnier (but extinguish it before drinking)

* you may add a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for presentation purposes, but since it is such a tiny cocktail most people will overlook your efforts.

Note: none of these liquors are chilled; all are poured at room temperature.