Homemade Baileys Irish Cream: Your Ultimate Guide To Deliciousness
(This post may contain Amazon affiliate links. By clicking on an affiliate link I may financially benefit at no extra cost to you.)
Discover the ultimate guide to creating your own delicious DIY Baileys Irish Cream at home. Elevate your cocktail game with this easy-to-follow recipe and treat yourself to a luxurious, homemade liqueur experience.
This post may contain affiliate links. By clicking on an affiliate link I may financially benefit at no extra cost to you.
Making Homemade Baileys Irish Cream Is Easier Than You Think
I enjoy making homemade versions of different concoctions, like my favorite, Limoncello that I wrote about before (click here for my recipe).
Creating my own homemade Baileys Irish Cream is something that I’ve been wanting to try for some time.
I enjoy drinking Baileys in my coffee on the weekends or especially on those chilly evenings as a sipper by itself when I crave something sweet and warming as a nightcap.
Irish Coffee Mug Set
The process is simpler than you might think, and the result is a rich, velvety liqueur that pairs perfectly with coffee or dessert.
I like to use good-quality Irish whiskey for its smoothness and depth of flavor, which is essential in achieving that authentic Baileys taste.
My recipe for homemade Baileys involves a blend of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate syrup, pure vanilla extract, half & half, espresso granules, and the critical ingredient – Irish whiskey.
This delightful concoction is a must-try if you enjoy crafting your own liqueurs or if you’re simply looking for a way to impress your friends.
It’s the perfect homemade indulgence that captures the essence of traditional Baileys without the need to step into a store. And as a bonus, it is a fraction of the cost.
Creating Your Own Homemade Baileys Irish Cream
I love the easy process of making my own Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur at home. It’s a rewarding experience because I can tweak the flavor to my liking and it makes for a delightful gift or special treat for my friends and family.
Here are a few questions and answers that you might find useful.
Can You Use Regular Coffee Instead Of Espresso?
I don’t recommend using regular coffee as it won’t deliver the strong taste you get in Baileys.
Can You Use Regular Milk In Homemade Baileys?
No, I don’t recommend this either. You need to use Half & Half or Heavy Cream to get that added creamy taste and texture.
Do You Have To Use Irish Whiskey?
Yes! I used Tullamore Dew for this recipe but you can easily swap this out for Jameson Irish Whiskey. Just make sure it is a quality Irish Whiskey!
Homemade Irish Cream Recipe
Homemade Irish Cream
Equipment
- 1 Blender
Ingredients
- 1 cup Half & Half
- 1 tsp Instant Espresso
- 1/2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
- 2 Tbsp Ghirardelli Chocolate Syrup
- 3/4 cup Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey Can use any good Irish Whiskey
- 14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk
Optional Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
- 1 Tbsp Pumpkin Spice
- 2 Tbsp Salted Caramel Sauce
Instructions
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk, half & half, chocolate syrup, instant espresso, and vanilla extract into a blender.
- Mix on low until well combined.
- Add Irish Whiskey and blend again.
Optional Instructions (only one)
- Add Cocoa powder to the first blend.
- Add Pumpkin Spice to the first blend.
- Add Salted Caramel to the first blend
Notes
- When making this recipe it is important to note that you should only use one optional ingredient per batch.
- Measurements should be precise to maintain balance in flavor.
- This batch can be refrigerated for up to two months in an airtight container.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Half & Half
- 1 tsp Instant Espresso
- 1/2 tsp pure Vanilla Extract
- 2 Tbsp Ghirardelli Chocolate Syrup
- 3/4 cup Tullamore Dew Irish whiskey
- 14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk
Measurements should be precise to maintain balance in the flavor.
Homemade Baileys Irish Cream Serving Suggestions
You can serve your homemade Baileys over ice in a lowball glass, in a shot glass, or add it to your coffee instead of creamer.
Proper Storage Techniques
Store your mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. Use clean glass bottles to extend freshness.
DIY Gift Ideas and Packaging
You can bottle your homemade Baileys in swing-top bottles or jars with personalized labels. They make excellent Birthday gifts or favors for any occasion.
You can also check out Mixology Moments Cocktail Recipe Journal to save all of your favorite recipes. I am sure this will be one of them.
Safety and Alcohol Content
Always remember that even homemade liqueurs contain alcohol. Drink responsibly and be mindful of the Irish whiskey content when serving.
Comparing Homemade Versus Store-Bought
Homemade Irish Cream has the charm of being customizable with different flavors and ingredients.
I find its freshness superior to the store-bought version. Plus the homemade version is much less expensive.
Seasonal and Holiday Inspirations
You can incorporate Christmas spices like nutmeg to create a holiday-special version of your Baileys. Try homemade eggnog with homemade Irish Cream for a delicious seasonal delight.
Did You Love This Irish Cream Recipe?
Break out your home bartending skills and make a batch of homemade Irish Cream today. Be sure to let me know how much you loved this recipe!
Now on to my Nextcocktails!