Rich, creamy, and luxurious this homemade Baileys Irish cream is made with condensed milk, whipping cream, coffee, and a splash of chocolate. This homemade version is the perfect alternative to the store-bought Irish cream.
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Baileys was a popular drink in our home with all the ladies. They didn't drink hard alcohol like rum, vodka, or whiskey. I guess because Baileys is milk-based, it somehow masked the reality that they were drinking alcohol. If you told them they were drinking whiskey they'd probably ignore the fact anyway.
It's rich creamy and oh so delish. I myself make a few variations. If you have not tired my Butterscotch Irish Cream, or my baileys chocolate martini, you must.
About this Irish cream
Below, I have given you a very standard recipe, which is like a copy of the original Irish cream. However, everything in this recipe can be adjusted to your own preference.
- Coffee - As you can see in the video, I've used more coffee because we love a bit more coffee flavor.
- Chocolate - You can also add more chocolate syrup to bump the chocolate flavor. Take note that chocolate syrup is sweetened as well. So, when combined with the condensed milk it can be very sweet.
- Whiskey - When I make Baileys, I divide it into two: in one I add alcohol for the adults, while the second is without alcohol and more chocolate so the kids can enjoy. You can add more than 1 cup or less than a cup of whiskey in the alcoholic version.
Ingredients and substitutes
- Whiskey - It's got to be Irish whiskey of course. I use Jameson, but you can use any brand you fancy.
- Cream - The thicker the cream the richer the Irish cream. I use 38% fat. I recommend no less than 32%.
- Sweetened condensed milk - I use a 14 oz can. You can use homemade condensed milk as well.
- Chocolate syrup - If you have it, use it. I never buy store-bought chocolate syrup. So, if I don't have homemade, I just use cocoa powder.
- Vanilla extract - Vanilla is the only flavor in here, so use a good quality vanilla extract.
- Instant coffee - You want just a hint of coffee to keep it original. But in our home, we do love a bit of extra coffee. As you can see in the video, I've used a little more coffee so the color is darker as well.
Step by step instructions
- In a blender, combine cream, sweetened condensed milk, instant coffee, chocolate syrup, and vanilla.
- Mix on low speed until everything is well combined.
- Add the whiskey and give it one more mix with the blender.
Pro tip - Do not overmix at this time as the alcohol can break down the whipped cream and curdle it. - Transfer the baileys to clean sterilized liquor storage bottles with tight-fitting lids.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Frequently asked questions
The Irish whiskey of course. So, if you plan to make this Irish cream, make sure to use a good Irish whiskey. I'm using Jameson, and prefer that over the others. For example, scotch is a Scottish whiskey, but it's distilled only twice, while Irish whiskey is distilled three times. I didn't know that until two years ago.
Baileys and Kahlua, both are creamy and coffee-based liquors. However, Kahlua is stronger in coffee flavor while Baileys is more subtle.
Yes, it needs to be refrigerated at all times. Because it has dairy content in the condensed milk and fresh cream. Also, Irish cream tastes so much better chilled or over some ice. Ideally, it will last in the fridge for up to 2 months. I have yet to make a batch that has lasted more than a week.
Yes, I do it all the time. If you see in the video I saved some in the bottle with the blue cap before I added the whiskey. I always do that and keep some for my friends who don't drink alcohol. The drink on its own, without the whiskey, is an absolute treat.
Yes, you can, by making homemade condensed milk, which is basically just reducing full-fat milk to about ⅓ of its original volume. You can also use my recipe for homemade condensed milk in 5 minutes. Whichever you use, let it cool before you use it in the recipe.
Try a splash of Bailey's in creamy desserts like chocolate mousse or Tiramisu. A generous splash of Irish cream over your favorite chocolate cake makes it moist and oh so delicious. Also, have you tried brownies with Irish cream and a dollop of ice cream?
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Printable Recipe
Homemade Baileys Irish Cream
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Video
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 ml) Heavy cream 38%
- 2 tablespoon Chocolate syrup or cocoa powder
- 1 can (396 g) Condensed Milk 14 oz
- 1 teaspoon Instant coffee
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240 ml) Irish whiskey
Instructions
- In a blender, combine cream, sweetened condensed milk, instant coffee, chocolate syrup, and vanilla.
- Mix on low speed until everything is well combined.
- Add the whiskey and give it one more mix with the blender. Tip - Do not overmix at this time as the alcohol can break down the whipped cream and curdle it.
- Transfer the baileys to clean sterilized liquor storage bottles with tight-fitting lids.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Information
The nutrition information and metric conversion are calculated automatically. I cannot guarantee its accuracy. If this data is important to you please verify with your trusted nutrition calculator. Thank you
Dee
Can I use cooking cream instead of heavy cream?
Veena Azmanov
I have not tried it with cooking cream. I think the consistency will be too liquidy