Irish Cream Coffee is a delicious coffee cocktail that combines the bold flavor of coffee with the smooth, rich sweetness of Irish cream liqueur. It is different than the classic Irish coffee that is made with Irish whiskey and brown sugar. This Baileys coffee is a great drink for all you coffee lovers.
You can enjoy Irish Cream Coffee any time of year but it is especially good to serve on St. Patrick’s day. It is a great after dinner coffee for the holiday season or a nice drink to serve on a cold night. Coffee drinks are always a good choice.
If you want to make some Irish cream cupcakes to go with this Irish coffee recipe check out Guinness Chocolate Cake and Baileys Irish Cream Frosting.
If you have leftover Bailey’s Irish cream make some Baileys French Toast. Bailey’s Glazed Chocolate Donuts or Bailey’s Bread Pudding. You could also use it in a Tiramisu Martini Dessert Cocktail or Chocolate Martini.
If you would like to try another classic cold weather cocktail check out Mulled Red Wine. For more St. Patrick’s day recipes check out St. Patrick’s Day Irish Foods.
SOME THINGS TO KNOW:FAQ’S
INGREDIENT TIPS:
- Choose a medium to dark roast for a richer, more robust flavor. Dark roasts complement the creamy sweetness of the Irish cream liqueur well.
- Use whole beans and grind them for the best flavor. The quality and kind of coffee impacts the overall taste of the drink. Read this Coffee Beans Guide to learn about the different types to find your favorite blend of beans to make a delicious cup of coffee. If you don’t find your perfect choice the first time, there are plenty of other options. Depending on the time of day that you make the drinks you might want to use decaf coffee.
- The easiest way to pipe a pretty topping for the Irish Cream Coffee is by using a canned whipped cream. You can purchase them made with heavy cream or lighter versions. There is a piping tip on the can so the whipped cream looks pretty.
SPECIAL EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
- Coffee Maker: Any standard coffee maker, such as a drip coffee maker, French press, espresso machine, or even a single-serve pod machine, will work well for brewing the coffee.
- Measuring Cup or Jigger: To accurately measure the Irish cream liqueur, it is helpful to have a measuring cup or a jigger/ shot glass.
SUBSTITUTIONS:
- While Baileys Original Irish Cream is the most well known brand, don’t hesitate to explore other Irish cream liqueurs available in the market. Each brand has its unique flavor profile, from nutty to chocolatey.
- You can use a combination of cream, a touch of chocolate syrup, vanilla extract, and almond extract to mimic the flavor profile of Irish cream liqueur without the alcohol.
- If you do not have access to freshly brewed coffee, instant coffee is a quick and convenient option. Just make sure it is made strong enough to mimic the robust flavor of freshly brewed coffee.
- There are several plant based whipped creams available, made from coconut milk, almond milk, or soy milk, which can be used as a great alternative to dairy whipped cream.
- If you do not have store bought whipped cream, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. You could also just add a bit of ice cream on top of the coffee.
- If you prefer a chilled cocktail substitute a cold brew for the hot coffee.
DO NOT STORE IRISH CREAM COFFEE:
Once you’ve mixed the Irish cream coffee recipe it is best enjoyed immediately. Storing the mixed drink is not recommended as the quality will deteriorate quickly.
Pour the hot coffee into a heatproof glass or glass mug, leaving some room at the top for your Irish cream and whipped cream.
Add the Irish cream liqueur to the coffee. Stir well to blend the flavors together.
Gently spoon or pipe a generous amount of whipped cream on top of the coffee. Sprinkle a bit of cocoa powder, chocolate shavings or a dash of cinnamon over the whipped cream.
Irish Cream Coffee
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Ingredients
- 1 cup freshly brewed hot black coffee
- 1½ ounces Irish cream liqueur (like Bailey's original Irish cream)
- Whipped cream, for topping
- A sprinkle of cocoa powder or grated chocolate, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Brew your favorite coffee. Aim for a strong brewed coffee for the best flavor.
Pour the hot coffee into a heatproof glass or glass mug, leaving some room at the top for your Irish cream and whipped cream.
Add the Irish cream liqueur to the coffee. Stir well to blend the flavors together. Add an extra splash of baileys to taste or an extra splash of coffee.
Gently spoon or pipe a generous amount of whipped cream on top of the coffee.
Sprinkle the whipped cream a bit of cocoa powder, chocolate shavings or a dash of cinnamon over the whipped cream.
Enjoy your Irish Cream Coffee while it is warm. It will be great on cold evenings.
