When I first tried a Copper Camel shot, I wasn’t expecting something so bold to be so smooth. It was during a small dinner party at my cousin’s house in Denver—high altitude, low expectations, and then boom: a perfectly chilled, creamy little shooter that felt like dessert in a glass. Ever since, it’s been one of those “remember-that-night” drinks I like to recreate for guests, especially around the holidays. What makes it memorable? Its simple ingredients, velvety finish, and that charming mystery of a name—Copper Camel.
I’m going to show you how to make this shot two different ways—layered and mixed—plus an alcohol-free version that’s just as delightful. Whether you’re planning a party, building your home bar, or just curious about what butterscotch schnapps and Irish cream can do together, this Copper Camel Shot Recipe is the one you’ll want to bookmark.
Copper Camel Shot Recipe (2 Perfect Versions You’ll Love)
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 shot 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy Copper Camel Shot Recipe made with just two ingredients—butterscotch schnapps and Irish cream. Choose from a layered showpiece or a smooth, shaken blend. Includes a non-alcoholic version and pairing tips.
Ingredients
1 oz Butterscotch Schnapps
1 oz Irish Cream Liqueur
(For creamier version) ½ oz Butterscotch Schnapps + 1 oz Irish Cream
Optional: Caramel syrup, cinnamon schnapps, whipped cream
Instructions
1. Chill your shot glass in the freezer.
2. For the layered version: Pour butterscotch schnapps into the glass.
3. Slowly pour Irish cream over the back of a spoon to layer it.
4. For the creamy mixed version: Shake both ingredients with ice.
5. Strain into a chilled glass and serve.
6. Optional garnish: caramel drizzle, cinnamon, or crushed toffee.
Notes
Use premium liqueurs for smoother flavor.
Don’t over-shake to avoid foam.
The non-alcoholic version uses butterscotch syrup and half-and-half.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Shaken or Layered
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shot (1.5 oz)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Copper Camel Shot Recipe, Copper Camel Drink, Creamy Shot, Butterscotch Schnapps, Irish Cream
The Shot That Started It All
The Copper Camel shot recipe is a true hidden gem in the world of creamy cocktails. It takes just two ingredients: Irish cream and butterscotch schnapps. But the magic lies in their ratio, their layering, and how you choose to serve them. With just the right pour, you get a sweet, creamy finish with caramel undertones and a subtle burn that reminds you—you’re sipping something with a kick. The result? A drink that blurs the line between shooter and dessert.
And yes, we’ll cover the non-alcoholic Copper Camel too—because even the designated drivers deserve something smooth and indulgent.
If you love rich, dessert-like flavors, you’ll find this pairs well with many recipes across our dessert and dinner categories.
The Mystery Behind the Name
Nobody really knows where the name “Copper Camel” comes from—and that’s part of the fun. Some say it’s about the color. Others joke that it’s a smoother cousin to drinks like the “Buttery Nipple.” Whatever the origin, it adds an extra dash of personality to a shot that’s already oozing charm.
This Copper Camel shot recipe has become a staple in both casual bars and high-end cocktail menus, where the layered look turns heads and the creamy bite keeps people coming back.
From here, we’re going to jump into the two best ways to prepare it—so you can pick the style (and strength) that fits your night best.
How to Make a Copper Camel Shot (2 Delicious Methods)
The Copper Camel Shot Recipe is so simple, yet incredibly satisfying. You only need two ingredients—but what you do with them makes all the difference. Some love the beautiful visual of a layered shot, while others prefer a blended, creamy version that goes down ultra-smooth. Below, you’ll find both techniques clearly laid out so you can choose your favorite.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or planning a cozy night in, this recipe works beautifully as an after-dinner sipper or a standout addition to your dessert cocktail lineup.
Method 1: The Stunning Layered Shot
Want to impress your guests? Try this method. It uses the back of a spoon to carefully layer the liqueurs, giving your shot that elegant two-tone look. It’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Butterscotch Schnapps (Buttershots or DeKuyper)
- 1 oz Irish Cream Liqueur (Baileys, Carolans, or Emmets)
- Ice-cold shot glass
Instructions:
- Chill your shot glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes for the best presentation.
- Add 1 oz of butterscotch schnapps to the bottom of the shot glass.
- Slowly pour the Irish cream liqueur over the back of a spoon held just above the schnapps to create a separate layer.
- Serve immediately and enjoy cold.
This style isn’t just a treat for the palate—it’s visually stunning and ideal for special occasions or dinner parties when you want to bring your A-game.
Method 2: The Quick & Creamy Mixed Shot
This version is quicker to make and slightly creamier, thanks to the inverted ratio. It’s a great choice for sipping and has that smooth velvety-sweet finish everyone loves.
Ingredients:
- ½ oz Butterscotch Schnapps
- 1 oz Irish Cream (preferably Baileys Irish Cream)
- Ice cubes (optional for shaking)
Instructions:
- Combine the schnapps and Irish cream in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake gently for 5 seconds.
- Pour through a strainer into a chilled shot glass and serve right away.
This version blurs the line between shot and dessert. It’s one of the easiest recipes in our lunch or dinner pairing collections.
Copper Camel Shot Tips:
| Pro Tip | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Use chilled glassware | It keeps the flavors cold and clean without melting ice. |
| Use high-quality liqueurs | Premium brands deliver smoother texture and richer flavor. |
| Don’t over-shake | Over-shaking causes foam and can dilute flavor. |
Next up: We’ll dive deeper into what makes this shot such a winner—its flavor, quality choices, and ideal pairings for food and dessert.
Inside the Glass – Taste, Pairings, and Premium Touches
The Copper Camel Shot Recipe isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. From the first sip, the balance of sweet and creamy notes leaves a smooth trail that’s both rich and mellow. And if you’re using premium liqueurs? The difference is instantly noticeable. Let’s break down what makes this drink truly special.
Flavor Profile: Why It’s More Than a Sweet Shot
The Copper Camel shot is often labeled as “sweet,” but that oversimplifies its flavor story. Here’s what you’re actually tasting in each version:
- Butterscotch Schnapps offers rich notes of caramel, brown sugar, and toffee, with a subtle warmth.
- Irish Cream Liqueur offers creamy richness with notes of vanilla, chocolate, and a warm whiskey finish.
Together, they create a velvety-smooth dessert cocktail that finishes without any sharp bite. It’s not too thick, not too boozy—just rich enough to feel indulgent.
Opting for Baileys or a high-quality alternative like Emmets ensures a rich, creamy texture and superior mouthfeel. Similarly, a high-quality schnapps (like Buttershots or DeKuyper) ensures that the caramel flavor doesn’t taste artificial or overly syrupy.
This is what turns a simple creamy shot into a memorable experience.
Pairings: What to Serve with a Copper Camel Shot
Since this recipe leans into the dessert cocktail category, it shines when paired with sweet or rich foods. Below are the perfect pairings to make the most of your shot:
Dessert Pairings:
| Dessert | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Caramel Cheesecake | Echoes the caramel notes and complements the creamy shot. |
| Chocolate Truffles | Bitterness from dark chocolate balances sweetness. |
| Tiramisu | Coffee and cream flavors amplify the layered notes. |
Savory Pairings:
- Salted caramel popcorn – Adds contrast and crunch
- Bacon-wrapped dates – Offers sweet-savory balance
- Roasted nuts with cinnamon – Brings out the cinnamon edge if you opt for an oatmeal cookie twist
These options elevate the experience and make your Copper Camel Drink shine on any table.
For party hosts, pairing this recipe with sweet bites from our dessert category can create a curated after-dinner moment your guests won’t forget.
Coming up next: We’ll explore how to customize this creamy shot—whether you want to go non-alcoholic, make it spicy, or garnish it for the ‘Gram.
Creative Variations + Non-Alcoholic Copper Camel Version
What makes the Copper Camel Shot Recipe shine is its versatility. You can serve it bold or mellow, chilled or stirred. But if you’re looking to get a little more creative—or serve guests who aren’t drinking—there are excellent twists to explore.
Non-Alcoholic Copper Camel: Yes, It’s Possible
You don’t need to skip the party just because you’re not drinking. The non-alcoholic Copper Camel recipe delivers a similar texture and flavor, minus the buzz. It’s ideal for baby showers, brunch tables, or a comforting post-dinner sip.
Non-Alcoholic Ingredients:
- 1 oz butterscotch syrup (like Torani)
- 1 oz half-and-half or full-fat cream
Instructions:
- Chill your shot glass.
- Pour butterscotch syrup into the base.
- Slowly add cream over a spoon for layering—or shake both with ice for a blended version.
Result? A silky, sweet, and satisfying dessert-style drink that fits perfectly in your breakfast or dessert party lineup.
Bonus tip: Add a drop of vanilla extract to intensify flavor or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
Garnish & Presentation Ideas to Impress
Elevate your Copper Camel drink from simple shot to star of the table. These easy enhancements not only look beautiful, but they complement the creamy-caramel profile:
Presentation Upgrades:
| Dessert | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Caramel Cheesecake | Echoes the caramel notes and complements the creamy shot. |
| Chocolate Truffles | Bitterness from dark chocolate balances sweetness. |
| Tiramisu | Coffee and cream flavors amplify the layered notes. |
Even a simple swirl of whipped cream or edible gold dust can transform this into a festive holiday shot—no advanced bartending required.
Table of contents
Table of Contents
How to make a camel drink?
The classic Camel drink usually refers to a Copper Camel: 1 oz butterscotch schnapps + 1 oz Irish cream. Shake or layer in a chilled glass.
How do you make a monkey sperm shot?
This oddly named shooter typically includes banana liqueur, Irish cream, and sometimes coffee liqueur. Similar concept—sweet, creamy layers.
Copper camel recipe – is there a spicy version?
Try the “Oatmeal Cookie” twist by adding a splash of cinnamon schnapps (Goldschlager). It adds heat and complexity.
What’s the difference between Copper Camel and Buttery Nipple?
Both use butterscotch schnapps and Irish cream. The Buttery Nipple often includes grenadine and leans more toward the shooter category.
