The Salted Caramel Mudslide is a rich dessert-style cocktail that blends smooth vodka with creamy liqueurs and a swirl of caramel for a sweet treat in a glass. This drink has layers of flavor, from the boldness of coffee liqueur to the silky creaminess that balances every sip. A sugared rim with a touch of sea salt adds just the right contrast, making each sip both sweet and slightly savory. It’s a cocktail that feels indulgent yet comforting, perfect for after-dinner sipping or sharing at a special gathering. The Salted Caramel Mudslide turns dessert into a delicious drink.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Salted Caramel Mudslide is rich, creamy, and slightly sweet with a touch of salt to round it out. Baileys adds a smooth, milky base with hints of cocoa and vanilla, while Kahlúa brings in coffee and dark roast flavor. Vodka provides strength without altering the flavor too much. Caramel adds sweetness and a buttery note, especially when paired with the sugar rim. A pinch of sea salt at the end helps balance the drink, giving it a more complex finish. Each sip delivers a combination of coffee, cream, and caramel, layered with a light salty crunch from the rim.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, small plates for the caramel and sugar rim, and a bar spoon if you want to swirl the caramel after drizzling. Use a rocks or double old-fashioned glass to serve. A spoon or small spatula helps drizzle caramel evenly inside the glass. A shaker with a tight seal is essential, as this drink includes cream-based ingredients that require a solid mix. For garnishing, a small pinch of sea salt can be added with fingers or a tiny spoon. Make sure you have plenty of ice, both for shaking and for the glass itself.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1.5 oz Kahlúa
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz caramel sauce
- Raw sugar, for rimming
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Pour half the caramel sauce (about 0.25 oz) onto a small plate. Dip the rim of your glass in the caramel.
- Add raw sugar to another plate and dip the caramel-coated rim into the sugar.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel inside the glass and gently swirl to coat.
- In a shaker, combine Baileys, Kahlúa, and vodka with ice. Shake well until chilled.
- Fill the prepared glass halfway with ice and strain the cocktail over it.
- Top with a pinch of sea salt.
Pro Tips
- Use cold caramel sauce for cleaner rimming and drizzling
- Shake vigorously to blend the creamy ingredients well
- Use large ice cubes to reduce dilution in the glass
- Drizzle the caramel inside the glass slowly for better coating
- Fine sea salt works better than coarse for the final sprinkle
- Rim the glass just before serving to keep the sugar crisp
- Adjust caramel to taste if you prefer a sweeter drink
- Use flavored vodka (vanilla or caramel) for extra depth
When to Serve
This Salted Caramel Mudslide fits best as an after-dinner drink or dessert replacement. Its rich and creamy flavor makes it perfect for cooler evenings or festive occasions. Serve it during holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or any time you want something comforting and a little indulgent. The sweet-and-salty rim adds extra texture, making it a hit at celebrations or cozy nights in. It also works well when paired with chocolate-based desserts, coffee-flavored treats, or salty snacks. The Salted Caramel Mudslide is a crowd-pleaser, especially for guests who enjoy dessert-style cocktails.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Irish Cream
- Baileys Irish Cream
- Kerrygold Irish Cream
- Carolans
Coffee Liqueur
- Kahlúa
- Tia Maria
- Mr. Black
Vodka
- Tito’s Handmade Vodka
- Absolut
- Smirnoff
Similar Cocktails
- Citrus Vodka Crush
- Spicy Cantaloupe Cooler
- Frozen Limoncello Drop
- Rhubarb Lemon Fizz
- Sugar Snap Martini
Equipment
- Small plate
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 1.5 oz Kahlúa
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz caramel sauce
- Raw sugar for rimming
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Pour half the caramel sauce (about 0.25 oz) onto a small plate. Dip the rim of your glass in the caramel.
- Add raw sugar to another plate and dip the caramel-coated rim into the sugar.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel inside the glass and gently swirl to coat.
- In a shaker, combine Baileys, Kahlúa, and vodka with ice. Shake well until chilled.
- Fill the prepared glass halfway with ice and strain the cocktail over it.
- Top with a pinch of sea salt.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Warm the caramel sauce slightly if it’s too thick to drizzle.
- Use large ice cubes to slow dilution and maintain the drink’s creaminess.
- Sea salt flakes give a better finish than fine salt, use sparingly for balance.