Homemade Irish Cream Liqueur Perfect For Festive Cocktail Recipes
Making your own Irish cream at home is a simple pleasure that feels both special and effortless.
Forget about complicated steps and endless ingredient lists; this recipe transforms a handful of common items into a rich, velvety smooth liqueur in minutes. The result is a delicious, creamy drink with a perfectly balanced flavor of whiskey, cocoa, and coffee, ideal for savoring on a quiet evening or sharing with friends.
The process itself is wonderfully therapeutic, a quick stir and a gentle pour leading to a decadent treat. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a culinary wizard without any of the fuss. So, if you’re looking for an easy way to create something truly delicious, this homemade Irish cream is a perfect place to start.
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Equipment You Will Need
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or blender
- Fine mesh strainer
- Funnel
- Ginger Man-shaped bottles (optional)
Find all our favorite tools for your home cocktail bar here.
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Homemade Irish Cream Liqueur Recipe
Homemade Irish Cream is a velvety smooth liqueur that delivers a taste of cozy indulgence. This spirited blend of creamy richness and a subtle kick of Irish whiskey is a decadent treat for any occasion.
- Total Time: 4 hours and 15 minutes
- Yield: 1
Ingredients
1 cup Irish whiskey
1/2 cup 15% cream, chilled
1/2 can condensed milk with sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla syrup
1 teaspoon instant coffee granules
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
Instructions
- Remove the cream from the refrigerator in advance, it should be at room temperature. In a bowl for preparing the drink, mix the cream, condensed sweet milk and vanilla syrup. Use a whisk or blender at the lowest speed. Sift the cocoa into the bowl through a sieve. Sifting will prevent lumps from forming. Stir the mixture.
- Add instant coffee and stir lightly. Do not strive for homogeneity of the drink yet.
- Pour in the Irish whiskey and leave the mixture for 7-10 minutes under the lid. During this time, the granules of instant coffee will soften and you will easily achieve homogeneity.
- If desired, the drink can be strained for an ideal result (we did not strain). Pour the Baileys into a beautiful bottle, cool for 4 hours and enjoy a delicious drink.
Notes
- For a vegan version, use coconut condensed milk and cream.
- You could replace the brandy with vanilla vodka.
- Those with a sweet tooth, try adding ice cream instead of cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Category: Cocktails
Step-By-Step Process



This homemade Irish cream is perfect for cozy nights by the fire, a festive holiday gathering, or as a thoughtful, handcrafted gift. Its versatility makes it a perfect addition to dessert recipes and cocktails, adding a touch of creamy indulgence. Don’t forget to explore our other party food recipes that pair wonderfully with this delicious liqueur.
This liqueur is also a key ingredient in many other Bailey’s-infused and delightful recipes. For more decadent treats, explore our recipes for Baileys Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle Cups or Baileys Chocolate Truffles.
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