Homemade Baileys Irish Cream Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Blend Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Yield: 3½ cups (approximately 750 ml)
Difficulty: Very Easy
Description
Looking for a smooth, creamy liqueur to serve at holiday gatherings, cozy nights, or to gift in a stylish bottle? This Homemade Baileys Irish Cream recipe delivers all the velvety richness and chocolatey warmth of the store-bought version—at a fraction of the price and with a fresh, customizable flavor you control. Made with real cream, Irish whiskey, cocoa, and vanilla, this easy DIY version takes just minutes and lasts up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
Perfect over ice, in coffee, or as a dessert drizzle!
Ingredients
✅ Base:
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter texture)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1⅔ cups Irish whiskey (Jameson or any smooth whiskey)
✅ Flavor Boosters:
- 1 tablespoon instant coffee or espresso powder
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup (or 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended)
✅ Optional Add-Ins:
- Pinch of sea salt (enhances flavor)
- 1 teaspoon caramel syrup (for a sweeter twist)
- Splash of coconut milk (for a nutty vibe)
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Blender or whisk & mixing bowl
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Funnel (for bottling)
- Glass bottle or jar with tight-fitting lid
Instructions
🔹 Step 1: Blend the Cream Base
- In a blender, combine the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk.
- Pulse 2–3 times on low just to combine. Don’t over-blend the cream—high speeds can whip it and change the texture.
Intensity Tip: Use half-and-half or light cream if you prefer a less rich liqueur.
🔹 Step 2: Add the Flavors
- Add in the instant coffee, chocolate syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Add a pinch of sea salt if using.
- Blend again on low speed for 10–15 seconds until smooth and fully incorporated.
🔹 Step 3: Pour in the Whiskey
- Slowly pour the Irish whiskey into the blender.
- Blend once more on low speed for 10 seconds, or stir gently with a spatula if you’re worried about curdling or over-mixing.
Flavor Note: For a stronger kick, increase whiskey to 2 cups. For a milder, dessert-style liqueur, keep it at 1½ cups.
🔹 Step 4: Bottle and Store
- Using a funnel, transfer your homemade Baileys into a clean glass bottle or mason jar with a tight-sealing lid.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Shake gently before each use.
Make It a Gift: Pour into decorative glass bottles, tie with ribbon, and label with a custom tag for holiday or host gifts.
Serving Suggestions
- On the Rocks: Serve 2 oz over ice in a tumbler.
- In Coffee: Add a splash to hot or iced coffee for an Irish twist.
- In Dessert: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream or use in chocolate mousse.
- Cocktails: Mix with vodka and Kahlúa for a homemade Mudslide or use in White Russians.
Storage & Shelf Life
- Refrigeration is a must. Because this recipe uses fresh cream, always keep it chilled.
- Shake before serving—natural separation may occur.
- Shelf Life: Up to 2 weeks when stored properly in the fridge in an airtight container.
- Do not freeze, as the cream may separate or develop an odd texture.
Nutrition Information (Per 2 oz serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Sugars | 14 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 30 mg |
| Sodium | 40 mg |
| Alcohol | ~13–15% ABV |
Note: This is an estimate and will vary based on the exact ingredients and measurements used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🎯 Fast and Easy: Just 10 minutes and a blender—no cooking required.
- 🧁 Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, creaminess, and strength to your taste.
- 🎁 Great Gift Idea: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or party favors.
- 💸 Cost-Effective: Makes a generous batch for a fraction of store prices.
- ☕ Versatile Use: In coffee, desserts, or cocktails—one recipe, endless options.
FAQs
❓Can I use a dairy-free substitute?
Yes! You can use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk creamer instead of heavy cream, and sweetened condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The texture will be a bit lighter, but still delicious.
❓What whiskey works best?
Jameson is classic, but any smooth, mid-range Irish whiskey works well. Avoid harsh or overly peaty whiskies.
❓Can I skip the coffee?
Absolutely. Coffee just adds depth. You can reduce the amount or leave it out entirely if you prefer.
❓Is it safe to store with cream and alcohol together?
Yes! The alcohol helps preserve the cream, especially if kept cold. But always refrigerate and use within 2 weeks to ensure safety and taste.
Variations to Try
- Mocha Irish Cream: Use brewed espresso and dark chocolate syrup.
- Salted Caramel Cream: Add caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt.
- Spiced Cream Liqueur: Add a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy fall flavor.
- Hazelnut Liqueur: Add 1 tablespoon hazelnut syrup or a splash of Frangelico.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Baileys Irish Cream is one of those secret weapon recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s delicious, quick to whip up, and impressively customizable. Whether you pour it over ice, mix it into coffee, or gift it in a cute bottle, there’s just something special about saying, “I made this myself.”
Cheers to creamy, dreamy indulgence—right from your own kitchen!
