Decadently delicious creamy cocktails are in easy reach with this simple recipe for homemade Irish cream liqueur.
The strong, bold flavor of Irish whiskey is mellowed with sweetened cream and hints of chocolate and coconut for the perfect dessert liqueur.
This easy recipe lets anyone enjoy the rich, luxurious taste of Bailey’s Irish Cream without straining their wallets!
What is Irish Cream?
- Irish cream is a thick, creamy, nutty flavored liqueur that you can make at home. It’s especially delicious splashed over ice, or featured in creamy cocktails, hot chocolate, or coffee drinks just like Starbucks!
- Homemade Irish cream is ideal for topping ice cream or stirring into cake frostings or adding to eggnog or boozy milkshakes!
- This easy recipe is made with simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
- Homemade Irish Cream makes a thoughtful gift. Put it in pretty jars tied up with ribbons.
- Non-alcoholic versions of this recipe are as easy as leaving out the whiskey! It will still be super delicious!
Ingredients and Variations
Dairy – Make your Irish cream as rich or light as you like! Start with sweetened condensed milk, then add heavy cream, half & half, or even whole milk. For dairy-free versions try coffee cream, coconut cream, or even oat milk. And how about giving it some cozy warmth with a splash or two of this delightful pumpkin spice creamer?
Whiskey – The classic choice is Irish whiskey, but any spirit, will do. Try bourbon, cognac or brandy, or neutral tasting vodka. Hazelnut liqueur will elevate the nutty flavors even more. For non-alcoholic versions, use bourbon extract.
Eggs – Eggs will thicken and add extra richness to this liqueur.
Chocolate – Use chocolate syrup, or cocoa for the signature flavor of Irish Cream. Other good options to consider are coconut and vanilla extracts to layer in more flavors.
Variations – Get creative with different extracts or liqueurs to give your own signature! Hazelnut and coconut extracts or liqueurs are especially delicious in Irish cream. Toss a few crystals of instant coffee into the blender for a hint of mocha. Combine it with homemade grand marnier over ice, for a creamy chocolate-orange cocktail.
How to Make Irish Cream
This easy recipe comes together in a flash!
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, as described in the recipe below.
- Serve chilled over ice or in coffee drinks or cocktails.
Ways to Use Irish Cream
Homemade Irish cream is delicious on its own over ice or vanilla ice cream. Use it in place of creamer when brewing coffee drinks, or as a substitute for the dairy in dessert recipes or this breakfast French toast casserole. Stir it into powdered sugar for a glaze to drizzle over cupcakes or cinnamon rolls. A luscious Irish cream custard that you can use as a filling for layer cakes or pastries can be made by using it as a substitute for milk in a basic pudding recipe.
Storing Irish Cream
- Irish cream will last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Shake it well before using each time.
- Freeze in ice cube trays, and use the cubes for cocktails or blended coffee drinks.
More Delicious Drinks!
Have you tried this Homemade Irish Cream recipe? Leave a comment and rating below!
Homemade Irish Cream
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups Irish whiskey or rye whiskey (may add up to ¼ cup more depending on the brand)
- 1 cup coffee cream 18% (or table cream)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 eggs
- 1 Tablespoon chocolate syrup *
- ¼ teaspoon coconut extract optional (can use up to ½ teaspoon)
Instructions
- In a blender, combine whiskey, cream, condensed milk, eggs, chocolate syrup, and coconut extract (if using). Blend until smooth.
- Serve chilled, over ice.
Notes
- *In place of chocolate syrup, can add 2 teaspoons sugar, 2 teaspoons cocoa, and ¼ teaspoon vanilla
- Hand mixer method: Beat eggs until frothy. Add whiskey, cream, condensed milk, chocolate syrup, and coconut extract if using, and mix until smooth.
Refrigerate for up to one month, stirring before using.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information does not include optional ingredients or garnish and is an estimate. It may change based on actual ingredients and cooking methods used.
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