A night out or a party wouldn’t be complete without a fun and delicious shot, and the Buttery Nipple recipe is one of the most popular choices. This smooth, creamy, and sweet shot is a favorite among cocktail lovers because it’s easy to make, visually appealing, and tastes amazing.
If you’re a fan of simple yet indulgent cocktails, you’ll love the Buttery Nipple recipe! It’s a classic, two-ingredient shot that delivers a perfect balance of butterscotch sweetness and creamy richness. Best of all, it’s an easy-to-master cocktail, making it a great addition to any party, celebration, or casual gathering.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn everything about the Buttery Nipple recipe, from its origins and ingredients to step-by-step preparation and expert tips. Plus, we’ll cover:
- Creative variations of the classic shot.
- Best occasions to serve a Buttery Nipple.
- Perfect food pairings to complement the flavors.
- Frequently asked questions to help you master this recipe.
Whether you’re a beginner or a cocktail enthusiast, this guide will give you all the details needed to make the perfect Buttery Nipple recipe every time!
Looking for another exciting shot? Check out The Irish Breakfast Shot for a flavorful twist!
Table of Contents

What Is a Buttery Nipple?
The Buttery Nipple recipe is a layered shot cocktail made with just two simple ingredients:
- Butterscotch schnapps – A sweet, buttery liqueur with rich caramel notes.
- Irish cream – A smooth and creamy liqueur with hints of chocolate and vanilla.
This shot is incredibly easy to prepare, yet it looks sophisticated due to its distinct layers. The butterscotch schnapps forms the base, while the Irish cream delicately floats on top, creating a visually appealing and delicious drink.
Why Is It Called a Buttery Nipple?
The name might sound playful and unusual, but it actually comes from a fun combination of words:
- “Buttery” originates from the butterscotch schnapps, which delivers a smooth, caramel-like flavor.
- “Nipple” follows the tradition of quirky shot names, much like the Slippery Nipple and Blow Job Shot.
This unique and memorable name has helped the drink gain popularity in bars, home parties, and celebrations worldwide.
Ingredients & Equipment
Ingredients for the Classic Buttery Nipple Recipe
To make this delicious shot, you only need:
✔ 1 oz Butterscotch Schnapps (e.g., DeKuyper Buttershots, Dr. McGillicuddy’s Butterscotch Liqueur)
✔ 1 oz Irish Cream (e.g., Baileys, Carolans, Emmets)
Optional Additions
For an extra twist, consider adding:
- Whipped cream – Enhances the sweetness and gives it a dessert-like feel.
- Caramel drizzle – Intensifies the butterscotch flavor.
- Coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa) – Adds a hint of roasted coffee.
Equipment Needed
To prepare a perfect Buttery Nipple, you’ll need:
- Shot glass (preferably chilled for a smoother taste)
- Bar spoon (essential for layering the ingredients properly)
- Jigger (for precise measurements)
Looking for another nostalgic drink? Try the Bug Juice Camp Drink for a fun and fruity experience!

How to Make a Buttery Nipple Shot (Step-by-Step Guide)
The Buttery Nipple recipe is incredibly simple. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve a perfect layered shot:
Step 1: Chill the Glass
- For the best experience, place your shot glass in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes.
Step 2: Pour the Butterscotch Schnapps
- Measure 1 oz of butterscotch schnapps.
- Pour it directly into the shot glass as the base layer.
Step 3: Layer the Irish Cream
- Hold a bar spoon over the schnapps with the curved side facing up.
- Slowly pour 1 oz of Irish cream over the back of the spoon, allowing it to float on top.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve immediately while the layers are visually distinct.
- Optionally, top with whipped cream or drizzle caramel for extra indulgence.
Pair this sweet shot with homemade treats! Try these Madeleine Cookies for the perfect balance.
Exciting Buttery Nipple Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these fun variations:
1. Slippery Nipple
- Adds Sambuca, giving it a licorice-like flavor.
- Recipe: ½ oz Sambuca + ½ oz Butterscotch Schnapps + ½ oz Irish Cream.
2. Dirty Nipple
- Includes Coffee Liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa) for a stronger taste.
- Recipe: ½ oz Coffee Liqueur + ½ oz Butterscotch Schnapps + ½ oz Irish Cream.
3. Blow Job Shot
- Topped with whipped cream for a playful twist.
- Recipe: 1 oz Butterscotch Schnapps + 1 oz Irish Cream + Whipped Cream.
4. Frozen Buttery Nipple
- Blended with ice for a creamy frozen cocktail.
- Recipe: 1 oz Butterscotch Schnapps + 1 oz Irish Cream + Ice (blend until smooth).

Best Occasions to Serve a Buttery Nipple
The Buttery Nipple is perfect for:
Parties & Celebrations – A fun, crowd-pleasing shot.
Holidays & Festive Events – Great for Christmas and New Year’s.
Girls’ Night Out – Sweet, creamy, and indulgent.
Dessert Pairing – Pairs well with caramel or chocolate desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the ingredients in a Buttery Nipple?
A Buttery Nipple shot contains butterscotch schnapps and Irish cream. Some variations may include whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or coffee liqueur.
2. Why is it called a Buttery Nipple?
The name comes from its ingredients:
- “Buttery” from butterscotch schnapps.
- “Nipple” is a playful addition, similar to other shot names.
3. What do you mix butterscotch schnapps with?
Butterscotch schnapps pairs well with:
- Irish Cream – For sweet and creamy shots.
- Coffee Liqueur – For a bold, espresso-like taste.
- Vanilla Vodka – For a dessert martini.
- Apple Cider – For a fall-inspired cocktail.
4. How many calories are in a Buttery Nipple?
A standard Buttery Nipple contains 120-140 calories, depending on the brands used.
- 1 oz Butterscotch Schnapps – Around 75-90 calories.
- 1 oz Irish Cream – Around 50-55 calories.
Want a lower-calorie version? Try using a sugar-free schnapps alternative or a lighter Irish cream.
Final Thoughts
The Buttery Nipple recipe is a fun, easy-to-make shot that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a deliciously sweet cocktail, this classic drink is always a great choice. With its sweet butterscotch flavor and smooth Irish cream finish, it’s no wonder this layered shot remains a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
One of the best things about the Buttery Nipple recipe is its simplicity. You only need two ingredients to create a visually stunning and great-tasting shot. Plus, you can customize it by adding whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or coffee liqueur to suit your taste preferences.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try some fun variations like the Slippery Nipple, which includes sambuca for a licorice twist, or the Dirty Nipple, which adds coffee liqueur for a richer, bolder flavor. These creative spins on the classic recipe allow you to enjoy different flavor profiles while keeping the drink easy and enjoyable to prepare.
Additionally, the Buttery Nipple recipe pairs well with desserts and other sweet treats, making it a fantastic after-dinner drink. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering, birthday party, or a girls’ night out, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
No matter how you choose to enjoy it—whether you make the classic version or experiment with variations—this delicious shot will impress your guests and elevate any celebration. So next time you’re looking for a quick, simple, and irresistibly smooth shot, don’t hesitate to whip up a Buttery Nipple recipe!

Buttery Nipple Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ ounce Butterscotch Schnapps
- ½ ounce Irish Cream Liqueur
Instructions
- Pour the butterscotch schnapps into a shot glass.
- Slowly layer the Irish cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon for a smooth, distinct layer.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Recipe Tips
- Use chilled ingredients for a smoother taste.
- For a stronger kick, add a splash of vodka or whipped cream vodka.
- Want a sweeter twist? Drizzle caramel syrup over the top.
Notes
- Calories: 102 kcal
- Total Fat: 2.3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.4g
- Cholesterol: 6mg
- Sodium: 8mg
- Carbohydrates: 9.6g
- Sugar: 9.2g
- Protein: 0.4g
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