Creamy Baileys Ice Cream Recipe – No Churn & Delicious!

There’s something undeniably luxurious about a scoop of homemade Baileys Ice Cream—a rich and creamy dessert infused with the velvety smoothness of Baileys Irish Cream.

This indulgent treat perfectly balances the warmth of Irish whiskey, the sweetness of vanilla, and the silkiness of heavy cream, making every bite a delightful experience.

Whether you’re a fan of boozy desserts or simply looking for a unique ice cream flavor, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade Baileys ice cream lets you control the ingredients and create a truly decadent frozen dessert tailored to your taste.

Enjoy it on its own, pair it with warm brownies, or drizzle it over your favorite coffee-based desserts for a sophisticated treat. Ready to make your own? Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this ice cream!

Why You’ll Love This Baileys Ice Cream

1. Creamy, Velvety Texture with a Boozy Twist

Baileys Irish Cream not only adds a rich, indulgent flavor but also contributes to the ultra-smooth texture of the ice cream. The alcohol content prevents it from freezing too hard, ensuring a luscious, scoopable consistency straight from the freezer.

2. Easy to Make – No Ice Cream Maker Needed

While an ice cream maker helps achieve a professional-quality texture, you can still make this delicious treat without one! The no-churn method requires just a few simple steps and minimal effort, making it perfect for beginners.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving a sweet, boozy indulgence, Baileys ice cream is the ultimate dessert. It pairs wonderfully with cakes, coffee, or even a splash of extra Baileys for a double dose of decadence.

4. Customizable to Your Taste

Love chocolate? Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips. Prefer a coffee kick? A shot of espresso transforms this ice cream into a heavenly treat. You can easily experiment with mix-ins like caramel swirls, cookie crumbles, or toasted nuts for a unique twist.

If you’re a fan of creamy, rich desserts with a hint of indulgence, this Baileys Ice Cream will quickly become a favorite. Now, let’s gather the ingredients and get started!

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Ingredients for Baileys Ice Cream

To make this rich and creamy Baileys ice cream, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Essential Ingredients:

• Heavy Cream (2 cups) – Provides the creamy, luscious base of the ice cream.
• Whole Milk (1 cup) – Balances the richness and ensures a smooth consistency.
• Baileys Irish Cream (½ cup) – The star ingredient that adds a velvety, boozy kick.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the ice cream while helping maintain a soft texture.
• Egg Yolks (4 large, optional) – If making a custard-based ice cream, egg yolks add richness and a silkier texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavors and adds a warm, aromatic touch.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon) – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and deepens the flavors.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Indulgence:

• Chocolate Chips or Shavings – For a chocolatey crunch.
• Espresso Powder (1 teaspoon) – To complement the Baileys with a hint of coffee.
• Caramel Swirl – For added sweetness and texture.
• Crushed Cookies or Brownie Bits – Mix in for a more decadent experience.

Equipment Needed

Making Baileys ice cream is easy, whether you’re using an ice cream maker or going the no-churn route.

Here’s what you’ll need:

For Churned Ice Cream:

• Ice Cream Maker – Helps achieve a professional, airy texture.
• Mixing Bowls – For combining the ingredients.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer – To blend everything smoothly.
• Saucepan – Required if making a custard-based version.
• Fine Mesh Strainer – Helps remove any lumps from the custard.
• Rubber Spatula – For stirring and scraping down the sides of the pan.

For No-Churn Ice Cream:

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – Needed to whip the cream to stiff peaks.
• Freezer-Safe Container – To store and freeze the ice cream.
• Spatula or Spoon – For folding in the ingredients gently.

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to start making this creamy, dreamy Baileys ice cream!

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Baileys Ice Cream

Whether you’re using an ice cream maker or making a no-churn version, this Baileys ice cream recipe is incredibly easy to follow.

Below are both methods so you can choose the one that works best for you.

Method 1: Churned Baileys Ice Cream (Using an Ice Cream Maker)

This method creates a rich, smooth texture similar to premium ice cream brands.

Step 1: Prepare the Ice Cream Base

1. In a saucepan, heat milk and heavy cream over medium heat until warm (but not boiling). Stir occasionally.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thick.

Step 2: Temper the Egg Yolks

3. Slowly pour a ladle of the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Gradually add more warm milk until fully combined.

Step 3: Cook the Custard

5. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly (coats the back of a spoon). This should take 5–7 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any cooked egg bits.

Step 4: Add the Baileys & Chill the Mixture

7. Stir in Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until completely chilled.

Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream

9. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).
10. Once thick and creamy, transfer to a freezer-safe container, cover, and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

Method 2: No-Churn Baileys Ice Cream (Without an Ice Cream Maker)

This version is super simple and requires just three main steps.

Step 1: Whip the Heavy Cream

1. In a large mixing bowl, whip cold heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 2: Fold in the Baileys Mixture

2. In a separate bowl, mix Baileys Irish Cream, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
3. Gently fold this mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined.

Step 3: Freeze & Set

4. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and smooth the top.
5. Cover tightly and freeze for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight) until firm.

Now, your creamy, boozy Baileys ice cream is ready to enjoy!

Serving & Pairing Ideas

How to Serve Baileys Ice Cream

This ice cream is luxurious on its own, but you can make it even more special with the right presentation:

• Classic Scoop: Serve in a bowl or waffle cone for a simple yet indulgent treat.
• Garnished with Chocolate: Top with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
• With a Shot of Baileys: Pour a little extra Baileys Irish Cream over the ice cream for an extra boozy kick.
• Affogato Style: Pour hot espresso over a scoop of Baileys ice cream for a creamy, coffee-infused dessert.
• Blended into a Boozy Milkshake: Blend a few scoops with milk and Baileys for a rich and creamy milkshake.

Perfect Pairings

This ice cream pairs beautifully with a variety of desserts and drinks:

• Warm Brownies or Chocolate Cake – The contrast of warm and cold is heavenly.
• Coffee or Espresso – The smooth coffee flavors enhance the Baileys.
• Irish Coffee – Serve alongside a classic Irish coffee for a double dose of indulgence.
• Caramel Drizzle & Nuts – A drizzle of caramel sauce with chopped toasted almonds adds crunch and depth.

Storage Tips: How to Keep Baileys Ice Cream Fresh

Homemade ice cream is best when stored properly to maintain its smooth texture and rich flavor.

Here’s how to keep your Baileys Ice Cream fresh and delicious for as long as possible:

1. Use an Airtight Container

• Store the ice cream in a freezer-safe, airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the freezer.
• A shallow, wide container helps the ice cream freeze evenly.

2. Press Plastic Wrap Against the Surface

• Before sealing the container, press a layer of plastic wrap or parchment paper directly onto the ice cream’s surface.
• This prevents ice crystals from forming and keeps the texture smooth and creamy.

3. Maintain a Consistent Freezer Temperature

• Keep your freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or lower to maintain the ideal texture.
• Avoid frequent temperature changes (like opening and closing the freezer often), as this can lead to ice crystals.

4. Let It Soften Before Scooping

• Since Baileys has alcohol, the ice cream will stay softer than regular ice cream.
• If it’s too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping for the perfect texture.

5. Consume Within 2–3 Weeks

• Homemade ice cream is best enjoyed within two to three weeks for peak freshness.
• While it can last longer, the flavor and texture may gradually decline over time.

Conclusion

Baileys Ice Cream is the perfect treat for those who love a boozy, creamy, and luxurious dessert. With its smooth texture, rich flavor, and easy preparation, this homemade ice cream will quickly become a favorite.

Whether you make it churned or no-churn, serve it on its own, drizzled with caramel, or alongside a warm brownie, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s easily customizable—add chocolate, coffee, or nuts to make it your own!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use a Different Irish Cream Instead of Baileys?

Yes! While Baileys is the most popular Irish cream, you can use any Irish cream liqueur you like. Some great alternatives include Carolans, Ryan’s, or Five Farms Irish Cream.

2. Will the Alcohol in Baileys Prevent the Ice Cream from Freezing?

Not completely. Alcohol lowers the freezing point, which makes the ice cream softer and easier to scoop. However, if you add too much Baileys, the ice cream may not set properly. Stick to the recommended ½ cup for the best results.

3. Can I Make a Dairy-Free Version of Baileys Ice Cream?

Yes! Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and milk. Also, try Baileys Almande, which is a dairy-free version of Baileys, to keep the same boozy flavor.

4. How Can I Make This Ice Cream Extra Creamy?

For an ultra-creamy texture:

• Use high-fat dairy (heavy cream and whole milk).
• If using an ice cream maker, churn the mixture properly to incorporate air.
• Make sure to fully chill the base before churning.

5. Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Chocolate or Nuts?

Absolutely! Try adding:

• Chocolate chips or chunks for extra richness.
• Toasted almonds or hazelnuts for crunch.
• A caramel or fudge swirl for more indulgence.
  Just fold in your mix-ins after churning (or before freezing, if using the no-churn method).