There’s something wonderfully indulgent about homemade Baileys that just makes you want to slow down and savor every sip. It’s one of those recipes that instantly feels like a cozy hug in a glass—whether you’re pouring it over ice or adding it to your morning coffee.
I first whipped up a batch when I realized I had a bottle of whiskey that had been sitting around for too long and a craving for something a little more decadent than the usual nightcap. Fast forward to today, and this Homemade Baileys has become a staple for special gatherings, or just when I want to treat myself after a long week.
What I love most is the control you have over the sweetness and flavor. Want it more chocolatey? Add a touch of cocoa powder. Prefer a stronger whiskey kick? Easy. The best part? It takes less than 10 minutes to make, with just a few ingredients you likely already have at home.
And honestly, the homemade version tastes fresher and creamier than anything you can buy at the store. Plus, it’s perfect for pouring over desserts like Raw Vegan Brownies or enjoying with Crack Cookies for a boozy sweet treat.
It’s no wonder people are turning to homemade Baileys recipes—customizable, delicious, and so much fun to share!
Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)
- No waiting around—just whisk everything together and enjoy!
- You can adjust the sweetness or add a bit more whiskey, making it your own.
- I love bottling this up and gifting it to friends around the holidays or special occasions.
Homemade Baileys Recipe
Equipment
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight container or glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid
Ingredients
- 1⅔ cups Jameson Irish whiskey
- 1 cup half & half or heavy cream
- 14 ounce canned sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee
Instructions
- Add the Jameson Irish whiskey, half & half or heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate syrup, vanilla extract, and instant coffee to a blender.
- Blend on high speed for 30 seconds until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the mixture into an airtight container or glass bottle and store in the refrigerator.
- Shake well before each use and enjoy. Store for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 94kcal |
| Sodium | 18g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Cholestrol | 13g |
Unique Adaptations to Explore with This Recipe!
Here are a few expert-level variations to take this Irish cream recipe to the next level:
- Nutty Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of hazelnut liqueur or almond extract to give the cream a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the whiskey and chocolate. This adds a layer of complexity and a slightly sweet, toasty finish.
- Spiced Depth: For a warmer, more aromatic twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom. Just a dash of these spices will elevate the flavor and give the Irish cream a cozy, autumnal feel.
- Dark Chocolate Edge: Swap out the standard chocolate syrup for a tablespoon of dark chocolate ganache or melted dark chocolate. The richness of dark chocolate adds a more intense, bittersweet element that balances the sweetness of the condensed milk.
- Coconut Cream Alternative: For a tropical, dairy-free version, substitute half & half with coconut cream. The creamy texture remains, while the coconut brings a subtle tropical note that plays surprisingly well with the whiskey.
- Coffee Lovers’ Delight: Instead of instant coffee, try brewing a strong espresso and using 2 tablespoons for a bolder coffee flavor. This will give the Irish cream a richer, more robust finish, perfect for those who love their coffee with a kick.
- Smoky Finish: For a slightly more adventurous twist, add a splash (about 1 tablespoon) of a smoky Scotch whisky along with the Jameson. The smokiness will add a savory, bold complexity to the Irish cream that’s perfect for those who appreciate a deeper, more nuanced drink.
Each of these variations allows you to tweak the recipe while keeping it balanced, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully with the Irish whiskey. Enjoy experimenting!