Delicious Buttery Nipple Shot Recipe: Your Guide to a Sweet Layered Dessert Shooter

Indulge your sweet tooth with the delightful Buttery Nipple Shot, a classic layered shooter that perfectly blends the rich, creamy notes of butterscotch with the smooth embrace of Irish cream. This easy-to-make dessert cocktail is a favorite for parties, after-dinner treats, or any occasion calling for a touch of sweet decadence. With just two main ingredients and a few simple steps, you can craft this visually appealing and incredibly smooth shot that promises a buttery, vanilla, and caramel symphony in every sip.

Two Buttery Nipple Shots being held up in the air, showcasing their distinct layers

Why This Buttery Nipple Shot Recipe Works

The magic of the Buttery Nipple Shot lies in its simplicity and the delightful contrast of its two main components: butterscotch Schnapps and Irish cream liqueur. This recipe creates a stunning layered effect, not just for visual appeal but also for a unique drinking experience where the flavors unfold beautifully. The butterscotch Schnapps, with its prominent caramel, vanilla, and buttery notes, forms the base, while the smooth, creamy Irish whiskey liqueur gently floats on top, creating a perfect balance.

This layered presentation isn’t just for show; it’s a result of the different densities of the two liqueurs. When poured correctly, the Irish cream, being less dense, rests elegantly above the butterscotch, making for a truly eye-catching dessert shooter. It’s incredibly smooth and sweet, making it an ideal choice for a dessert shot at any gathering, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. If you enjoy a touch of saltiness to complement your sweets, you might also love using leftover butterscotch Schnapps to create delicious salted nut roll shots.

A Buttery Nipple Shot resting on a cupcake stand, ready to be enjoyed

Key Ingredients You Will Need

To create this irresistible Buttery Nipple Shot, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients, most of which are likely staples in any well-stocked home bar. The exact measurements and step-by-step instructions are provided in the full recipe card at the end of this post, but here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need:

Butterscotch Schnapps
Irish Cream Liqueur (such as Baileys)

For optional garnishes to elevate your shot’s presentation and flavor:

Caramel Sauce
Brown Sugar
Whipped Cream
Sprinkles

Ingredients for Buttery Nipple Shot laid out on a table

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

The Liqueurs: Butterscotch Schnapps and Irish Cream

The harmony of butterscotch Schnapps and Irish cream is what defines the Buttery Nipple Shot. Each plays a crucial role in both flavor and presentation.

Butterscotch Schnapps: This sweet, low-proof liqueur is the heart of the “butterscotch” flavor in this shot. It brings rich notes of caramelized sugar, creamy butter, and a hint of vanilla. While specific brands like DeKuyper are popular, any good quality butterscotch Schnapps will work beautifully. It forms the denser, golden base of our layered shot.
Irish Cream Liqueur: Bailey’s Irish Cream is the quintessential choice for a Buttery Nipple Shot, known for its velvety texture and sweet, creamy, whiskey-infused flavor. However, if Baileys isn’t available, don’t fret! Many other excellent brands of Irish cream liqueur can be substituted without compromising the delicious outcome. The key here is to use a good quality cream liqueur that will complement the butterscotch without overpowering it.

Temperature Matters for Layering

For the most successful and visually stunning layered effect, ensuring both liqueurs are at a similar temperature is crucial. While many people refrigerate their Irish cream, butterscotch Schnapps is often stored at room temperature. If you prefer your Irish cream chilled, consider pouring a small amount into a separate cup and allowing it to reach room temperature before you start making your shots. This helps prevent the Irish cream from mixing too readily with the Schnapps when poured, allowing it to float gracefully on top.

Optional Garnishes: Elevate Your Shot

Garnishes aren’t just for aesthetics; they can add another layer of flavor and texture to your Buttery Nipple Shot, making it feel even more like a special dessert.

Caramel Sauce and Brown Sugar Rim: This combination adds a beautiful sticky-sweet and slightly crunchy texture to the rim of your shot glass. The caramel notes perfectly complement the butterscotch within the drink.
Whipped Cream and Sprinkles: A dollop of whipped cream on top provides an extra creamy, luxurious mouthfeel, while a dash of sprinkles adds a festive pop of color and a bit of playful texture. Consider seasonal sprinkles for holiday parties!

How to Make a Buttery Nipple Shot

These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious Buttery Nipple Shot. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and detailed instructions at the bottom of this post.

Prepare the Garnish (Optional): If you plan to garnish your shot, start by preparing two small plates. On one plate, spread a thin layer of caramel sauce. On the other, spread a layer of brown sugar.
Rim the Shot Glass: Carefully dip the rim of your chosen shot glass into the caramel sauce, ensuring an even coating. Immediately after, dip the caramel-coated rim into the brown sugar. This creates a delightful sweet and slightly crunchy edge to your shot.
Add Butterscotch Schnapps: Pour the desired amount of butterscotch Schnapps into the prepared shot glass. This will form the base layer of your shot.
Position Your Spoon: For the perfect layered effect, hold a small spoon (a cocktail spoon works best, but any small spoon will do) backward, with the bottom facing upwards. Position the spoon at a slight angle just inside the top of the shot glass. The tip of the spoon should gently touch the inside of the glass, just below the rim of the glass.
Slowly Layer the Irish Cream: This is the most critical step for achieving the beautiful layers. VERY SLOWLY and steadily pour the Irish cream liqueur over the back of the spoon. The spoon helps to diffuse the stream of liquid, allowing the less dense Irish cream to gently float on top of the butterscotch Schnapps. Pouring too quickly will cause the Irish cream to plunge through the butterscotch, creating a “spidering” or mixed effect, losing the distinct layers. Take your time for a clean separation.
Final Garnish (Optional): For an extra touch of indulgence, add a spritz of whipped cream on top of the layered shot. Finish with a dash of your favorite sprinkles for a festive look. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for the Buttery Nipple Shot

Are Buttery Nipple Shots layered?

Yes, Buttery Nipple Shots are typically layered! This iconic presentation is achieved by carefully pouring Irish cream over butterscotch Schnapps. The different densities of the two liqueurs cause the Irish cream to float on top of the butterscotch, creating distinct, attractive layers. While the layered look is part of its charm, you can absolutely stir the shot together if you prefer a fully blended flavor or are making many shots and want to save time.

Are Buttery Nipple Shots gluten-free?

Generally, yes, Buttery Nipple Shots are considered gluten-free. Most commercial brands of Irish cream liqueur, including Baileys, are certified gluten-free. Similarly, the majority of butterscotch Schnapps brands do not contain gluten. However, always be sure to check the nutritional label and ingredient list of the specific brands of liqueurs you are using, as formulations can vary, and manufacturers’ policies regarding gluten-free claims may differ.

What’s the best type of shot glass for layering?

For optimal layering and presentation, a standard 1.5 to 2-ounce shot glass with a straight or slightly tapered shape works best. Glasses with wider mouths can make the slow-pour technique a little easier, but ultimately, any standard shot glass will do.

Can I make a batch of Buttery Nipple Shots ahead of time?

While you can mix a batch of the ingredients if you plan to stir the shots, for the best layered effect, it’s recommended to prepare each shot individually just before serving. The layers will hold for a short period, but eventually, the liquids will begin to slowly blend. For parties, consider setting up a “shot bar” with the ingredients and instructions, allowing guests to try their hand at layering!

What if my layers don’t separate properly?

The most common reason for layers not separating is pouring the Irish cream too quickly. Remember to pour it very slowly over the back of a spoon. Also, ensure both liqueurs are at a similar temperature; significant temperature differences can affect density and make layering harder. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect on the first try – practice makes perfect!

Expert Tips for the Perfect Buttery Nipple Shot:

Patience is Key: The layering technique requires a steady hand and patience. Don’t rush the pour, especially when adding the Irish cream. A slow, gentle pour is the secret to distinct layers.
Use the Back of a Spoon: This simple tool is indispensable for layering. It acts as a diffuser, spreading the liquid evenly over the surface of the previous layer without disturbing it.
Chill Your Schnapps: While Irish cream is often refrigerated, having both liqueurs at a cool, consistent temperature (but not necessarily ice-cold, which can thicken some liqueurs) can help with cleaner layering.
Practice Makes Perfect: If you’re new to layering shots, make an extra one for practice. You’ll quickly get the hang of the right speed and angle.
Experiment with Garnishes: Beyond caramel and brown sugar, consider a light dusting of cinnamon or a tiny chocolate shaving for an added touch of elegance.

A hand holding up a single Buttery Nipple Shot, showing its beautiful layers

Serving Suggestions for Your Buttery Nipple Shot

The Buttery Nipple Shot is a versatile and crowd-pleasing cocktail that can be enjoyed in several ways. Its sweet and creamy profile makes it an excellent choice as a dessert shooter, perfect for wrapping up a meal with a touch of indulgence. Serve it alongside other dessert offerings, or let it be the sweet finale on its own.

For parties and celebrations, preparing a batch of Buttery Nipple Shots is always a hit. While the layered look is fantastic, don’t hesitate to stir them together if you’re making a larger quantity and want to save time. The flavor remains equally delicious. For an added festive touch, consider prepping your shot glasses with the caramel and brown sugar rim in advance, or simply offer a topping station with whipped cream and various sprinkles for guests to customize their own shots.

You can also think beyond just shots. For a larger, sippable dessert cocktail, consider pouring the same ratio of ingredients into a small rocks glass over ice. This allows you to savor the rich flavors for a longer period. No matter how you choose to serve it, the Buttery Nipple Shot is guaranteed to bring smiles and sweet satisfaction.

More Delicious Cocktail Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed the sweet, creamy notes of the Buttery Nipple Shot, you’re sure to find other favorites among our collection of easy and delicious cocktail recipes. Perfect for entertaining or simply treating yourself, these concoctions offer a range of flavors and styles:

Boozy Ice Pops: A fun, refreshing twist on a classic summer treat, infused with your favorite spirits.
Salted Nut Roll Shot: Another butterscotch favorite, offering a delightful balance of sweet and salty.
Oreo Thin Mint Shooters: A chocolatey, minty delight reminiscent of your favorite cookies.
Butterscotch Milkshake Cocktail: For when you want to turn that butterscotch flavor into a larger, more indulgent drink.
Ice Cream Cone Rum Chata Shots: A playful and sweet shot served in a mini ice cream cone.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Shot: A fruity, sweet shot that tastes just like the classic dessert.

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Four Buttery Nipple Shots, perfectly layered and garnished

Buttery Nipple Shot Recipe

This buttery nipple shot combines butterscotch Schnapps and Baileys Irish cream to create a fun layered shot that goes down incredibly smooth, offering notes of vanilla, butter, and caramel.

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Course: Cocktails | Cuisine: American | Servings: 1 shot | Prep Time: 5 mins | Calories: 119

Author: Amanda Davis

Ingredients

1 ounce butterscotch Schnapps
½ ounce Irish cream liqueur

Optional Garnish

Caramel sauce
Brown sugar
Whipped cream
Sprinkles

Equipment

Shot glass (1.5 – 2 ounces)
Cocktail spoon or other small spoon

Before You Begin

This shot works best if both alcohols are of similar temperature. If your Irish cream is refrigerated and your Schnapps isn’t, pour a small amount of Irish cream into a cup and let it come to room temperature before assembling.
Baileys Irish Cream is a classic choice, but any good quality Irish cream liqueur will work as a substitute.
This is a very sweet shot, perfect as a dessert cocktail. You can also stir it together if you prefer to skip the layered look.

Instructions

If using the optional garnish, add some caramel sauce to one small plate and brown sugar to another plate.
Dip the rim of the shot glass into the caramel, then dip the rim into the brown sugar.
Add butterscotch Schnapps to the shot glass.
Hold a spoon backward with the bottom facing upwards at a slight angle just inside the top of the shot glass. The tip of the spoon should be touching the glass just below the rim.
VERY SLOWLY pour the Irish cream over the back of the spoon. If you pour too quickly, the Irish cream will sink and then rise, causing a spidering effect.
Optionally garnish with a spritz of whipped cream and a dash of sprinkles.

Nutrition

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