Sweet, salty, creamy, and just the right size to make any celebration feel special-this Payday Shot is like your favorite candy bar in liquid form. Whether you’re toasting a small win or just want a fun drink to share with friends, this little cocktail packs big flavor into one perfect gulp. I’ve made this shot more times than I can count for parties and get-togethers-it never fails to bring smiles.
Payday Shot
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 2 shots (easily doubled or scaled up for a party)
Ingredients
– 1 oz (30 ml) Butterscotch Schnapps
– 1 oz (30 ml) Irish Cream (like Baileys)
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) Salted Caramel Syrup
– A pinch of Sea Salt
– Ice, for shaking
Glassware: Shot glass (or a small tumbler if you prefer to sip)
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker about halfway with ice.
- Pour in the butterscotch schnapps, Irish cream, and salted caramel syrup.
- Add a small pinch of sea salt-don’t overdo it! A little goes a long way to balance the sweetness.
- Shake well for about 10-15 seconds. You want it cold and slightly frothy.
- Strain into a chilled shot glass and serve right away.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your shot glasses ahead of time. It makes the drink extra refreshing.
– Don’t skip the salt-it’s what brings out that candy bar flavor. But just a pinch!
– Use a high-quality Irish cream for a smoother finish.
– If you like things less sweet, try using just a splash of the caramel syrup and taste-test before adding more.
– I’ve learned over time that giving the shaker a good, hard shake really helps blend the flavors and gives you that creamy texture.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the ingredients (without ice) and keep the mixture chilled in the fridge for a few hours before serving. Just give it a good shake with ice right before pouring to bring the flavors together and get that frosty texture.
Substitutions
– Butterscotch Schnapps: Swap with caramel vodka for a slightly different sweetness.
– Irish Cream: Use almond milk creamer or a dairy-free Irish cream if you’re avoiding dairy.
– Salted Caramel Syrup: Maple syrup works in a pinch, though it’ll have a deeper flavor.
How It Tastes
This shot is creamy, sweet, and just a little salty-like a Payday candy bar melted into a silky-smooth drink. The butterscotch and caramel give it that rich candy flavor, while the Irish cream adds a velvety finish. It’s not overly sugary, though-it’s got a surprisingly balanced taste that’s easy to love.
Serving Suggestions
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio or as a fun after-dinner treat. Here are a few tasty pairings to try:
- Salted nuts: Almonds or cashews bring out the salty-sweet balance.
- Chocolate desserts: Brownies or chocolate mousse pair beautifully with the creamy caramel notes.
- Cheese board: Try it with soft, salty cheeses like blue cheese or aged cheddar for a savory contrast.
Variations to Try
Almond Joy Shot
– Replace Irish cream with coconut liqueur
– Add a splash of almond syrup
– Garnish with toasted almond flakes
Snickerdoodle Shot
– Use cinnamon schnapps instead of butterscotch schnapps
– Finish with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar
Minty Payday Shot
– Add a splash of peppermint schnapps
– Rim the glass with melted chocolate for a festive twist
Virgin Payday Shot
– Mix salted caramel syrup with almond milk and a few drops of butterscotch flavoring
– Shake with ice and serve chilled
Storage
If you’ve made extra, keep the mixed (but unshaken) ingredients in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice just before serving to refresh the texture and chill.
Common Questions
Can I make this in a large batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the recipe and mix in a pitcher. Shake individual servings with ice before pouring to keep each one cold and creamy.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Definitely. Start with less salted caramel syrup and add more to taste.
How should I serve it at a party?
Set up a DIY shot bar with the ingredients, a shaker, and a little instruction card. It’s fun and interactive!
Is there a dairy-free option?
Yes-try almond milk creamer or a coconut-based Irish cream alternative.
Why is the salt important?
Salt enhances the sweetness and helps mimic that candy bar flavor. It brings everything together.
Final Thoughts
The Payday Shot is one of those easy little recipes that makes a big impact. It’s playful, indulgent, and totally customizable. Whether you’re mixing it up for a party or just treating yourself after a long day, this sweet-and-salty sip is always a hit. Try one of the variations next time, or pair it with a chocolatey dessert for an extra-special treat. Cheers!
