This recipe for Easy Homemade Baileys Irish Cream is a game-changer, allowing you to create a bottle of the iconic creamy, boozy liqueur right in your own kitchen in just five minutes. This simple, no-cook recipe blends Irish whiskey, cream, and a few sweet flavorings into a velvety smooth and incredibly delicious drink that’s worlds better than the store-bought version. It’s rich, decadent, and has the perfect balance of whiskey warmth and sweet, creamy flavor.
Perfect for sipping on the rocks, splashing into your coffee, or giving as a thoughtful homemade holiday gift, this recipe is a must-try. Once you see how easy it is to make your own, you’ll never go back to the expensive store-bought bottles again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 5-Minute Recipe: An incredibly simple, no-cook recipe that’s ready in minutes.
- Better Than Store-Bought: Tastes richer and creamier, and you can control the quality of the ingredients.
- Perfect for Gifting: Pour it into a beautiful bottle for an impressive and delicious homemade holiday gift.
- Completely Customizable: Easily adjust the amount of whiskey or the sweetness to your exact preference.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 (14 oz) can Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 1 2/3 cups Irish Whiskey (like Jameson or Tullamore D.E.W.)
- 1 teaspoon Instant Coffee or Espresso Powder
- 2 tablespoons Chocolate Syrup
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In the pitcher of a blender, add the heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, Irish whiskey, instant coffee powder, chocolate syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Blend: Secure the lid and blend on medium speed for 20-30 seconds, or until all the ingredients are completely combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Store: Pour the homemade Irish cream into a clean, airtight glass bottle or jar.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least a few hours for the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled, over ice, or in your favorite coffee drinks.
Tips & Variations
- Pro Tip: The quality of your whiskey will directly impact the final taste. Use a smooth, good-quality Irish whiskey that you enjoy drinking.
- Flavor Variations:
- Mint Cream: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
- Salted Caramel: Use caramel syrup instead of chocolate syrup and add a pinch of sea salt.
- Espresso Cream: Double the amount of instant espresso powder for a stronger coffee kick.
- Don’t Over-blend: A quick blend is all you need. Over-blending can cause the cream to start whipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How long does homemade Irish cream last?
- Because it contains fresh dairy, it must be stored in an airtight bottle in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 1 month.
- Does it need to be refrigerated?
- Yes, absolutely. The heavy cream requires constant refrigeration to stay fresh and prevent spoiling.
- Can I use a different type of whiskey?
- While Irish whiskey provides the classic, smooth flavor, you could experiment with bourbon for a sweeter, more vanilla-forward version, or a Canadian whisky.

Serving Suggestions
- The best way to enjoy this homemade Baileys is chilled, served on the rocks. It’s also the perfect addition to a cup of hot coffee or hot chocolate for a boozy kick. You can also drizzle it over vanilla ice cream for a simple, decadent dessert.

Homemade Baileys Irish Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree on high speed for 30 seconds.
- Transfer mixture to an airtight container or glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
- Shake well before using. Serve over ice or stir into coffee.