For me, Bailey’s Irish Cream in coffee is basically the essence of Christmas. I know there’s nothing stopping me from having it year-round, but it would be like having a candy cane in July – just plain weird. This year I decided to take the obsession to the next level and try my hand at homemade Irish cream, and I think it’s safe to say that every person on my list will be getting some this holiday season (sorry for the spoilers, secret Santa recipient). I’m sharing three recipes here – standard, vegan, and non-alcoholic – so there’s an option for everyone.

Homemade Irish Cream Recipes

Classic

Just like the store-bought version, this homemade Irish cream is smooth, creamy, and packs a punch. Unlike the store-bought version, you actually know what’s in it!

Ingredients

• 1 2/3 cups Irish Whiskey
• 1 cup half & half or heavy cream
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 tbsp chocolate syrup
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp instant coffee

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high speed for 30 seconds
2. Pour into airtight container and store in fridge for up a month. Shake well before using.

Vegan

Bailey’s does make a dairy-free version of their classic Irish cream, but although I was super excited to try it, I found the actual product pretty disappointing. It has a slightly chalky taste and texture, and a distinct aftertaste (although I find that with most almond milk products, so you may feel differently. I prefer this version, which is made with coconut milk, so it’s smooth and creamy. The coconut milk in this vegan homemade Irish cream does impart a slight coconutty flavour, but it really works! And PS – it’s made with vegan sugar, and Jameson is vegan-friendly!

Non-Alcoholic

You don’t need alcohol to enjoy the flavour of Irish cream! This version is more like a coffee creamer, so it’s perfect for a luxurious morning bevvie when you still have to get stuff done in the day. Topping with whipped cream and chocolate is strongly encouraged.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp chocolate syrup
• 1 3/4 cups heavy cream (you could make this vegan by using coconut milk)
• 1/2 tsp almond extract
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Mix all ingredients together in blender.
2. Store in airtight container in the fridge.

Still thirsty for the holidays? Try  vegan eggnog or red wine hot chocolate!