Buttery Nipple Recipe: Ever been to a party where people are shouting drink names that sound more like adult film titles than cocktails? Yeah, the Buttery Nipple definitely tops that list. But don’t let the cheeky name fool you. This shot is one of the smoothest, creamiest, and most delightful little drinks you’ll ever knock back. It’s popular for a reason — it’s sweet, simple, and incredibly easy to make, even if your bartending skills start and end at opening a beer.
A Buttery Nipple is a two-ingredient layered shot, combining the rich flavor of butterscotch schnapps with the creamy delight of Irish cream liqueur. It’s often a go-to for beginners because of its sweet taste and smooth finish, making it a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, hanging out with friends, or just in the mood to treat yourself, this recipe is your golden ticket.
Now let’s break it all down, one buttery layer at a time.
Ingredients for a Classic Buttery Nipple
Creating the perfect Buttery Nipple shot starts with quality ingredients. Since this cocktail is so simple, every element needs to pull its weight. There’s no room for mediocrity here.
The Key Ingredients:
- 1 oz Butterscotch Schnapps – This sweet, golden liqueur gives the shot its signature flavor. It tastes like liquid candy, in the best way possible.
- 1 oz Irish Cream Liqueur – Think Baileys or any good-quality Irish cream. This adds richness, a touch of chocolate, and that creamy texture everyone loves.
Choosing the Right Brands: If you want the ultimate Buttery Nipple experience, go with DeKuyper Butterscotch Schnapps and Baileys Irish Cream. These are widely available, affordable, and blend beautifully. Of course, feel free to use your favorites, but try to avoid the super cheap stuff — this drink deserves better.
Pro Tip: Keep both bottles chilled before you start mixing. A cold pour helps with layering and enhances the smooth, creamy taste.
Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need a full-blown bar setup, but a few essentials can make the process smoother and your presentation sharper.
Must-Have Bar Tools:
- Shot Glass – This is a must. You can use a standard 1.5 oz shot glass, but if you’ve got something fancy, now’s the time to show it off.
- Bar Spoon – The secret weapon for creating perfect layers. Its twisted handle slows the pour, helping you float the cream on top like a pro.
Optional Tools for a Pro Touch:
- Jigger – Helps with accurate measurement.
- Small Funnel or Syringe – For those who want ultra-precise layering.
- Mini Whisk – If you plan on adding some whipped cream or want to get experimental with flavors.
With the right tools and the right attitude, even a novice can look like a cocktail wizard.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Buttery Nipple
Now for the good stuff — making your Buttery Nipple shot. Let’s walk through it, step-by-step.
Step 1: Chill Your Shot Glass
Pop the shot glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes before you start. A chilled glass helps the layers form better and keeps the drink refreshingly cold.
Step 2: Pouring the Butterscotch Schnapps
Grab your schnapps and pour 1 oz directly into the shot glass. Fill it just a little over halfway. Make sure your hand is steady — this is your base layer and it sets the tone.
Step 3: Layering the Irish Cream
Now comes the tricky — but fun — part. Take your bar spoon and hold it just above the schnapps. Slowly pour 1 oz of Irish cream over the back of the spoon. If done right, the cream will float beautifully on top of the schnapps, creating that iconic layered look.
Step 4: Optional Garnishes
Feeling extra? Add a small dollop of whipped cream on top or a dash of cinnamon for a festive twist. You can even drop in a coffee bean or drizzle caramel syrup on the rim.
And that’s it! You’ve just made a perfect Buttery Nipple shot.
Tips to Perfect the Buttery Nipple
It’s simple, yes — but there’s still an art to it. Here’s how to avoid rookie mistakes and elevate your game:
- Chill Everything: From the ingredients to the glass. Cold liquid pours slower and helps with clean layering.
- Pour Slowly: Rushing ruins the layer. Be patient.
- Use a Bar Spoon: It really makes a difference in precision.
- Avoid Mixing Brands with Different Densities: Stick to known combos to prevent curdling or sinking.
Mess up the layering? No worries. It’ll still taste amazing. But hey, practice makes perfect.
Variations on the Buttery Nipple
While the classic Buttery Nipple is already a hit, sometimes you want to spice things up a bit. Whether you’re in the mood for something with more kick or just want to get creative behind the bar, here are a few fun variations to explore:
Slippery Nipple
This cousin to the Buttery Nipple swaps butterscotch schnapps for sambuca, an anise-flavored liqueur. The result? A more licorice-forward experience with the same smooth texture. It’s not for everyone, but those who love bold, unique flavors will definitely be intrigued.
Buttery Nipple with a Kick
Want to turn up the heat a little? Add a splash of vodka or spiced rum on top of the classic Buttery Nipple layers. This ups the alcohol content while keeping the dessert-like flavor intact. Serve it as a double shot for those who like a stronger sip.
Buttery Nipple Martini
Transform the traditional shot into a full-fledged cocktail by scaling up the ingredients:
- 2 oz butterscotch schnapps
- 2 oz Irish cream
- 1 oz vanilla vodka (optional)
Shake with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a caramel rim or even a candy butterscotch for flair. It’s the grown-up version of your favorite party shot.
These twists on the classic not only keep things interesting but also allow you to tailor the drink to suit your mood or audience.
When and Where to Serve Buttery Nipples
Not sure when to whip out this creamy concoction? Here’s a quick guide on how to make the Buttery Nipple the life of the party:
Best Occasions:
- Birthday Parties – The name alone will get laughs, and the taste seals the deal.
- Bachelorette/Bachelor Nights – It’s sweet, cheeky, and easy to take down in one go.
- Holiday Gatherings – Rich and indulgent, it fits perfectly with festive treats.
- Girls’ Night In – Great for shots without the burn. Lighthearted and easy to make.
Pairing with Other Drinks:
If you’re building a full bar menu, the Buttery Nipple pairs well with:
- Coffee Cocktails – Both share creamy notes.
- Dessert Shots – Like chocolate cake shots or lemon drop shooters.
- Whiskey or Bourbon-Based Drinks – Offer contrast for guests wanting something bolder.
Remember, this drink shines when served with good company and lots of laughs. Its approachable flavor profile makes it a great choice for beginners or those wary of strong, bitter alcohol.
FAQs about Buttery Nipple Recipe
1. Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Absolutely. Use non-alcoholic butterscotch syrup and mix it with a splash of cream or non-dairy milk. It won’t pack the same punch, but it’ll deliver a similar flavor and look.
2. Can I mix instead of layer?
You sure can. While it won’t look as impressive, mixing both ingredients still results in a smooth and tasty shot. Just stir gently and enjoy.
3. What’s the best brand for Irish Cream?
Baileys is the gold standard, but Kerrygold and Carolans also make fantastic Irish cream liqueurs. Try a few to see which suits your palate.
4. Do I need a bar spoon to layer?
Not necessarily, but it really helps. You can also use the back of a regular teaspoon—just pour slowly and steadily.
5. How many calories are in a Buttery Nipple?
Roughly 100–140 calories per shot, depending on the brands used. It’s not a diet drink, but it sure is worth the treat!
Conclusion
The Buttery Nipple is more than just a quirky name. It’s a surprisingly delicious, sweet, and creamy shot that anyone can make at home. With just two simple ingredients and a steady hand, you can impress your guests or treat yourself to something a little indulgent. Whether you’re sticking with the classic or venturing into variations, it’s a fun drink that fits a wide variety of occasions.
So go ahead — grab your schnapps, float that cream, and toast to the simple pleasures in life. Who says shots can’t be classy and cheeky at the same time?
