Homemade Baileys Irish Cream: A Rich & Creamy Delight

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Introduction

Skip the store-bought version—this Homemade Baileys Irish Cream is smoother, richer, and perfectly customizable to your taste. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a velvety liqueur that’s perfect for sipping over ice, adding to coffee, or drizzling over desserts.

Better yet, this recipe contains no preservatives or artificial flavors, giving you a fresher, more luxurious version of the classic Irish cream. Whether you’re hosting a party, making holiday gifts, or just treating yourself, this homemade Baileys is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Ready in 5 minutes – No cooking, no waiting
✅ Adjustable sweetness & strength – Make it as strong or as mild as you like
✅ Perfect for gifting – Bottle it up for a thoughtful homemade present
✅ Better than store-bought – Fresher, creamier, and free from additives

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp instant coffee (or espresso powder)
  • 300ml (1¼ cups) whole milk
  • 450ml (2 cups) heavy cream
  • 1 packet vanilla sugar (or 1 tsp vanilla extract + 1 tsp sugar)
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • 140ml (½ cup + 2 tbsp) whiskey (Irish whiskey preferred, or use bourbon/schnapps)

(Optional: ½ tsp almond extract for depth, or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Dissolve the Coffee

  1. In a small bowl, mix instant coffee with 1 tbsp warm milk until fully dissolved.

2. Blend Everything Together

  1. In a blender, combine:
  • Milk & coffee mixture
  • Heavy cream
  • Vanilla sugar
  • Powdered sugar
  • Cocoa powder
  • Whiskey
  1. Blend on low speed for 20-30 seconds until smooth and frothy.

3. Taste & Adjust

  1. Add more whiskey for a stronger kick (up to 180ml).
  2. Add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
  3. Add a splash of espresso for a deeper coffee flavor.

4. Bottle & Store

  1. Pour into a sterilized glass bottle (a mason jar works too).
  2. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks (shake well before serving).

Serving Suggestions

☕ In coffee – An Irish coffee upgrade!
🍦 Over ice cream – A boozy dessert drizzle
🥃 On the rocks – Chilled and sipped slowly
🎁 As a gift – Decorate with ribbon and a custom label

Tips for the Best Homemade Baileys

✔ Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest texture.
✔ Adjust whiskey to taste – Start with less, add more if needed.
✔ Shake before serving – Ingredients may settle.
✔ For a thicker version, reduce milk by 50ml.

Variations

🍫 Chocolate Mint Baileys – Add ¼ tsp peppermint extract
☕ Mocha Baileys – Increase coffee to 2 tsp
🌰 Hazelnut Baileys – Add 1 tbsp hazelnut syrup

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Baileys Irish Cream is so deliciously smooth and versatile, you’ll never buy the bottled version again. With just minutes of prep, you get a rich, velvety liqueur that’s perfect for cocktails, desserts, or cozy nights in.

Perfect for:

  • Holiday gatherings
  • Last-minute hostess gifts
  • Upgrading your coffee routine

Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!

(Want help with flavor variations or storage tips? Just ask!)

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