Homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream Recipe

Introduction

Creating your own Bailey’s Irish Cream at home is an indulgent culinary adventure that combines the richness of cream, the sweetness of condensed milk, and the subtle, sophisticated flavors of vanilla and coffee. This homemade version offers the opportunity to customize sweetness levels, incorporate unique flavor twists, and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a luxurious liqueur from scratch, all while ensuring quality and freshness. As featured on Love With Recipes, this detailed recipe emphasizes precision, flavor balance, and the art of blending ingredients to produce a silky, velvety Irish cream that rivals or even surpasses store-bought varieties. Whether you wish to enjoy it over ice, stir it into coffee, or gift it in decorative bottles, this recipe promises a decadent experience that will delight your senses and impress your friends.

Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes (plus refrigeration for flavor melding)

Needed Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender (high-powered preferred for smooth blending)
• Whisk or spoon for stirring
• Saucepan (for boiling water)
• Fine mesh sieve (optional, for smoother texture)
• Large jar or airtight container for storage
• Funnel (for easy pouring into bottles)
• Decorative bottles or glass jars (optional, for gifting)
• Refrigerator for chilling

Tags

• Homemade Liqueur
• Irish Cream
• DIY Alcoholic Beverage
• Gift Idea
• Creamy Dessert Ingredient
• Festive Drink

Serving Size

Approximately 1 ounce (30 ml) per serving. This recipe yields about 48 ounces, enough for approximately 48 servings, depending on portion size.

Difficulty Level

Moderate. Requires basic culinary skills, safety when handling hot water, and precision in measuring ingredients for best results.

Allergen Information

• Contains dairy (heavy cream, condensed milk, butter, dry milk powder)
• Contains egg (used in the recipe)
• Potential cross-contact with nuts if products are processed in facilities that handle nuts (check labels)

Dietary Preference

• Not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies
• Gluten-free (if using gluten-free ingredients)

Course

Sweet beverage / Dessert topping / Gift item

Cuisine

Irish-inspired homemade liqueur, global fusion of creamy indulgence

Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk

Begin by creating a substitute for store-bought sweetened condensed milk, which is a crucial base for this recipe. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the dry milk powder, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Whisk vigorously to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, resulting in a smooth, homogeneous mixture. This homemade condensed milk will add richness and sweetness, mimicking the canned version but with the advantage of control over sweetness and ingredient quality.

Step 2: Prepare the Coffee Mixture

In a small saucepan, bring 1/2 cup of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, carefully pour the hot water over the instant coffee granules in a heatproof bowl. Stir briskly until the coffee is fully dissolved, creating a concentrated coffee extract. Let this mixture cool slightly before use to prevent cooking the egg when added later.

Step 3: Blend the Base Ingredients

In a high-powered blender, combine the homemade sweetened condensed milk mixture, the fresh egg, vanilla extract, and the cooled coffee concentrate. Blend on high speed for about 30-45 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth, velvety, and well integrated. The blending process ensures that the egg is evenly dispersed, providing a creamy texture and preventing any curdling or separation during storage.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cream

Transfer the blended mixture into a large, clean jar or airtight container. Pour in the heavy cream gradually, stirring gently or shaking the container to combine. This step is critical for achieving the characteristic silky smoothness of Bailey’s Irish Cream. The heavy cream provides body and richness, balancing the sweetness of the condensed milk and the depth of the coffee and vanilla flavors.

Step 5: Mix and Chill

Securely seal the container and shake vigorously to ensure all ingredients are well combined. For best results, refrigerate the mixture overnight (minimum of 12 hours). This chilling period allows the flavors to meld, the alcohol to integrate smoothly, and the texture to develop into a luxurious, creamy liqueur. The longer it rests, the more harmonious the flavor profile becomes.

Step 6: Serve and Store

After the resting period, give the bottle a gentle shake before serving. Pour over ice, add to coffee, or use as a flavor enhancer in cocktails. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, where the homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream will stay fresh for up to three weeks. Always shake well before serving, as natural separation may occur over time.

Preparation Tips

• Egg Safety: If concerned about raw eggs, gently cook the mixture in a double boiler until it reaches 160°F (71°C) or use pasteurized eggs.
• Flavor Variations: Incorporate a splash of almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon during blending for added depth.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Taste the mixture before refrigerating and modify with additional sugar if desired.
• Texture Enhancement: For a silkier finish, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any egg or coffee granules.
• Alcohol Content: You can add a shot of Irish whiskey or bourbon to increase alcohol strength, adjusting the flavor to your preference.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use high-quality vanilla extract for a richer flavor.
• If you prefer a less intense coffee taste, reduce the amount of instant coffee slightly.
• For a more decadent version, fold in a small amount of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder during blending.
• Ensure all ingredients are cold before blending to prevent curdling and maintain smoothness.
• Experiment with flavor infusions: add a few drops of almond or hazelnut extract for a personalized twist.

Add-ons

• Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnishing
• Crushed cookies or biscotti for serving alongside
• Additional spirits like whiskey or bourbon for an extra kick
• Flavor extracts such as almond or cinnamon for variation

Side Dishes

• Serve alongside homemade brownies or rich chocolate cake for an indulgent dessert pairing.
• Use as an ingredient in coffee-based desserts such as tiramisu or coffee mousse.
• Pair with biscotti or shortbread cookies for a delightful coffee break.

Improvements

• Incorporate a splash of Irish whiskey or a preferred liquor to enhance authenticity and flavor complexity.
• Use a milk frother or immersion blender for an even silkier texture.
• Add a touch of caramel or honey during blending for a richer, more layered sweetness.
• Adjust the amount of condensed milk for a thicker or lighter consistency based on preference.

Save and Store

Transfer the prepared Bailey’s Irish Cream into sterilized, airtight bottles or glass jars. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator. Shake well before each use. Properly stored, the homemade liqueur remains fresh for up to three weeks. For longer storage, consider adding a small amount of high-proof alcohol to act as a preservative.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe without raw eggs?

Yes, to ensure safety, lightly cook the mixture in a double boiler until it reaches 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, use pasteurized eggs or egg substitutes to avoid raw egg concerns.

Can I customize the flavor?

Absolutely. Add extracts like almond, hazelnut, or cinnamon to tailor the flavor profile. You can also infuse with spices or chocolate for a decadent twist.

Is this recipe suitable for gifting?

Yes, package it in decorative bottles or jars, add a ribbon or personalized label, and present it as a handcrafted gift for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Replacing cream with coconut milk or almond milk can yield a dairy-free version, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Adjust sweetness accordingly.

Conclusion

Homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream offers a luxurious, customizable experience that elevates your beverage repertoire. This recipe balances sweetness, creaminess, and the nuanced flavors of vanilla and coffee to produce a velvety liqueur that can be enjoyed on its own, in coffee, or incorporated into delightful cocktails. Crafting this at home not only ensures freshness and quality but also provides a personal touch that makes it an ideal gift or signature treat. Remember to savor responsibly and enjoy the rich, smooth goodness that only a homemade Irish cream can deliver. For more detailed recipes and culinary inspiration, visit Love With Recipes, your trusted platform for delicious, well-crafted dishes and beverages.

References

• Irish Coffee & Cream Recipes, Food Network
• Homemade Liqueurs: Techniques and Recipes, The Art of Drink