Spiced Pecan Bourbon Shaken Espresso inspired by the brown sugar shaken espresso, this cocktail version blends bourbon, espresso, a spiced pecan brown sugar syrup, layered bitters, and a creamy float of Baileys for a bold and cozy drink that tastes like a barista and bartender teamed up.
If you love a spiced latte, pecan pie, or anything brown sugar–infused, this cocktail is going to be your new obsession. The rich, nutty syrup combined with warming bitters and strong espresso makes it a flavor-packed drink perfect for cooler weather (or really any time you’re craving something smooth and spiked).
Key Ingredients
- Spiced Pecan Brown Sugar Syrup: Made by simmering brown sugar with toasted pecans and cinnamon sticks.
- Bourbon: Smooth and rich—pairs beautifully with both the syrup and coffee.
- Bitters Trio: A dash each of black walnut bitters, incastora aromatic bitters, and bourbon barrel bitters gives layered depth.
- Espresso: Fresh and strong for that bold flavor hit. Cold brew concentrate works in a pinch.
- Baileys: Floated on top for that creamy “latte” finish.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to make this recipe:
- Step 1: Make the syrup by mixing the water, brown sugar, pecans, and cinnamon in a small pot and heating on medium until the sugar has melted and the pecans have been infused, about 20 minutes. Let cool then strain.
- Step 2: Make the cocktail by adding the syrup, bourbon, espresso, and bitters to a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Step 3: Shake and pour into a rocks glass filled with ice, top with the Baileys, and stir.
- Step 4: Top with chopped pecans.
Expert Tips
- The syrup makes about 1 cup and lasts for 2-3 weeks in. the fridge.
- Use fresh espresso if you can—it adds complexity and body.
- Prefer stronger coffee flavor? Use less Baileys or skip it altogether.
- Want it creamier? Stir the Baileys in instead of floating it on top.
Spiced Pecan Bourbon Shaken Espresso
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 drink 1x
- Category: cocktail
- Method: shaken
- Cuisine: american
Description
Spiced Pecan Bourbon Shaken Espresso inspired by the brown sugar shaken espresso, this cocktail version blends bourbon, espresso, a spiced pecan brown sugar syrup, layered bitters, and a creamy float of Baileys.
Ingredients
Spiced Pecan Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pecans
- 4 cinnamon sticks
Cocktail:
- 1 ounce syrup
- 2 ounces bourbon
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 dash aromatic bitters
- 1 dash black walnut bitters
- ¼ ounce Baileys
Instructions
- Make the syrup by mixing the water, brown sugar, pecans, and cinnamon in a small pot and heating on medium until the sugar has melted and the pecans have been infused, about 20 minutes. Let cool then strain.
- Make the cocktail by adding the syrup, bourbon, espresso, and bitters to a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake and pour into a rocks glass filled with ice, top with the Baileys, and stir.
- Top with chopped pecans.
Melanie says
I love your recipes and your site! I’ve tried several of your cocktails, being a fellow old fashioned and espresso lover. Your recipes are always on point and the flavors are bold, just the way I like them. Thank you and keep the cocktails coming!
Pate Giltner says
Thanks so much Melanie!!! Thanks so much for trying them <3