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baileys ice cream recipe

Baileys Ice Cream

Helen T. Patterson
This Baileys Ice Cream Recipe is a rich, creamy, and boozy delight, perfect for any occasion.
Infused with Baileys Irish Cream, this homemade ice cream delivers a velvety texture with a hint of whiskey and chocolate.
Whether you use an ice cream maker or go for the no-churn method, this indulgent treat is easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 280 kcal, Total Fat: 18g, Saturated Fat: 11g, Trans Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 85mg, Sodium: 40mg, Total Carbohydrates: 28g, Dietary Fiber: 1g, Sugars: 22g, Protein: 3g, Vitamin D: 2.5µg (15% of Daily Value), Calcium: 100mg (8% of Daily Value), Iron: 1mg (6% of Daily Value), Potassium: 140mg (4% of Daily Value)
Estimated based on one serving (assuming 8 servings per batch)
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dessert, Frozen Treat
Cuisine American, Irish
Servings 8 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Ice Cream Maker – Creates a smooth, airy texture.
  • Mixing Bowl – For whisking ingredients.
  • Whisk or Hand Mixer – Helps combine and aerate the mixture.
  • Saucepan – Necessary for cooking the custard base.
  • Fine Mesh Strainer – Strains out any lumps for a silky consistency.
  • Rubber Spatula – For stirring and scraping down the pan.
  • Airtight Freezer-Safe Container – For storing the ice cream.

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients:

  • 2 cups Heavy Cream
  • 1 cup Whole Milk
  • ½ cup Baileys Irish Cream
  • ¾ cup Granulated Sugar
  • 4 large Egg Yolks Optional, for custard-based ice cream
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt

Optional Add-Ins:

  • ½ cup Chocolate Chips or Chunks
  • 1 teaspoon Espresso Powder
  • ¼ cup Caramel Swirl
  • ½ cup Crushed Cookies or Brownie Bits

Instructions
 

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

    Prepare the Ice Cream Base:

    • In a saucepan, heat milk and heavy cream over medium heat until warm (do not boil).

    Whisk Egg Yolks & Sugar:

    • In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.

    Temper the Eggs:

    • Slowly pour some warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling.
      Gradually combine all the liquid.

    Cook the Custard:

    • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring until it thickens (about 5 minutes).
      It should coat the back of a spoon.

    Strain & Chill:

    • Remove from heat, strain through a fine-mesh sieve, and stir in Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla extract, and salt.
      Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

    Churn the Ice Cream:

    • Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn per the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).

    Freeze & Serve:

    • Transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

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

      Whip the Cream:

      • In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to whip cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

      Mix the Baileys & Condensed Milk:

      • In a separate bowl, whisk together Baileys Irish Cream, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt.

      Fold & Combine:

      • Gently fold the Baileys mixture into the whipped cream until fully incorporated.

      Freeze & Set:

      • Pour the mixture into an airtight freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 6 hours, or overnight, until firm.

      Notes

      • For a Stronger Baileys Flavor: Increase Baileys to ¾ cup, but note that the ice cream will be softer due to the alcohol.
      • For a Dairy-Free Version: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of dairy and Baileys Almande (dairy-free Baileys).
      • Mix-In Ideas: Fold in chocolate chips, caramel swirls, or crushed cookies before freezing for added texture and flavor.
      • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 weeks for the best taste and texture.
      • Best Served With: Warm brownies, espresso, or an extra shot of Baileys for a double dose of indulgence.
      Keyword Baileys Ice Cream