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
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.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 drink
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
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