Ultimate Baileys Coffee Milkshake: Your Luxurious Boozy Dessert and Drink Recipe
Imagine a single, glorious concoction that effortlessly combines the richness of a decadent dessert, the warmth of an after-dinner drink, and the invigorating kick of your favorite coffee. This Baileys Coffee Milkshake is exactly that – a velvety smooth, cold, and creamy indulgence designed to elevate any occasion. While it’s an undeniable favorite for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, this grown-up treat is so irresistible, you’ll want to enjoy it all year round.
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About This Baileys Coffee Milkshake
This Baileys Coffee Milkshake is a true showstopper, hitting all the right notes with its rich coffee flavor, luxuriously creamy vanilla ice cream, and a generous splash of authentic Baileys Irish Cream. The result is a sophisticated, grown-up treat that defies seasonal boundaries, making it perfect for any time of year you crave something special. It’s the ultimate fusion of your favorite vices: dessert, a spirited drink, and a caffeine fix, all in one elegantly blended glass.
Historically, an Irish Coffee has always been a beloved choice for winding down after a hearty meal. However, combining it with a rich dessert can sometimes be overwhelming. This milkshake brilliantly solves that dilemma by merging the best of both worlds into one harmonious, easy-to-enjoy creation. It’s an ice cream dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth, infused with the classic notes of Irish coffee and the signature smoothness of Baileys, proving that simple, quality ingredients always yield the best results.
The magic of this shake extends beyond its taste; it’s about the experience it creates. I once served this to my mother, and her reaction was priceless. She claimed it instantly transported her back to a cherished memory from years ago, describing it as the first drink that tasted as good, if not better, than that nostalgic sip from her past. Hearing how a simple recipe can evoke such powerful, long-forgotten food memories is incredibly rewarding and reaffirms my passion for creating dishes that resonate deeply with people, going far beyond just the flavors. This is more than just a drink; it’s a taste of cherished moments.
Why You’ll Love This Boozy Coffee Shake
Ready in under 5 minutes, this boozy coffee milkshake is my go-to when I desire something a little fancy without any fuss. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute guests or when you simply want to treat yourself. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your collection:
- Effortlessly Elegant: Despite its simple preparation, it feels incredibly sophisticated. Serve it in chilled glasses with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, and suddenly any evening feels like a celebration.
- Perfect Balance: The cold, creamy texture perfectly balances the warmth of coffee and the subtle kick of Baileys and whiskey. It’s just boozy enough to be interesting, but not overpowering.
- Versatile Indulgence: Whether it’s a special occasion like St. Patrick’s Day, a cozy night in, or a vibrant summer evening, this milkshake fits right in. It’s a versatile drink that can be enjoyed as a dessert, a cocktail, or even a unique after-dinner coffee alternative.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its rich, familiar flavors appeal to a wide audience, making it a fantastic choice for entertaining. Everyone loves a good milkshake, and adding Baileys just elevates it to another level!
If you’re looking for another delightful milkshake, this apple milkshake offers a creamy texture infused with comforting autumn flavors, a perfect contrast to this boozy coffee delight.
2025 update: First shared on March 17, 2016, this recipe has been one of the most-loved on the site. The recipe has been modified to serve 2 and the post has been updated with tips, variations, and more helpful information.
Ingredients for Your Baileys Coffee Milkshake
Crafting the perfect Baileys Coffee Milkshake relies on a few key ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is essential:
- Irish Whiskey: This spirit is crucial for authentic Irish flavor. While any whiskey can be used, we highly recommend an Irish whiskey like Jameson. Its smooth, distinct notes perfectly complement the Baileys Irish Cream, adding depth and a traditional character to the milkshake. The whiskey provides that underlying warmth and a subtle complexity that elevates this from a simple coffee shake to a truly grown-up beverage.
- Irish Cream: The star of the show! Baileys Irish Cream is our top choice for its iconic, rich, and creamy profile. However, feel free to use your favorite Irish cream brand. This liqueur brings a delightful blend of Irish whiskey, cream, and cocoa flavors, creating the signature sweetness and luxurious texture that makes this milkshake so special.
- Coffee: The coffee component is where you can truly personalize your shake. You can use your favorite freshly brewed coffee – whether it’s a light roast for a milder taste or a dark roast for a more robust flavor. For an extra intense coffee experience, consider using chilled espresso shots or a good quality cold brew concentrate. The most crucial tip here is to ensure your coffee is completely *cold*. If you add hot coffee, it will instantly melt the ice cream, resulting in a thin, watery drink rather than a thick, creamy milkshake. For those sensitive to caffeine, decaf coffee works just as wonderfully without compromising on flavor.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla ice cream is the base that allows the coffee and Irish cream flavors to shine. We particularly recommend using high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. The flecks of real vanilla bean not only add visual appeal but also contribute a more profound and aromatic vanilla flavor that enhances the overall richness of the shake. The quality of your ice cream significantly impacts the final texture and taste, so choose wisely!
- Garnishes: While optional, garnishes elevate your milkshake from simple to spectacular. A swirl of fresh whipped cream adds an extra layer of decadence and visual appeal. For a touch of chocolatey elegance, sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top. If you’re feeling extra playful, a maraschino cherry can add a pop of color and retro charm. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings!
Essential Equipment
To achieve that perfectly smooth, creamy consistency, the only essential tool you’ll need is a powerful high-speed blender. A good blender, like a Vitamix, ensures that all ingredients are thoroughly combined without any icy chunks, resulting in a consistently luscious texture. This investment will make your milkshake-making process quick and effortless, delivering professional-quality results every time.
How to Make the Perfect Baileys Coffee Milkshake
Creating this indulgent Baileys Coffee Milkshake is incredibly straightforward, requiring just two simple steps to achieve creamy perfection. The key is to add your ingredients in the correct order to ensure optimal blending and a smooth, consistent texture.
Blend for Perfection
Begin by adding the liquid ingredients first to your high-speed blender. This helps the blades move freely and prevents the ice cream from freezing to the bottom. So, add the Irish whiskey, followed by the Baileys Irish Cream, then your cooled coffee. Finally, add the generous scoops of vanilla ice cream on top. Once all ingredients are in, secure the lid and blend on high speed until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if necessary to ensure everything is incorporated.
Serve with Style
Once blended, immediately pour the thick, luscious milkshake into two large, chilled glasses. Chilling your glasses beforehand helps to keep the milkshake colder for longer, enhancing the enjoyment. For that extra touch of elegance and flavor, top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of delicate chocolate shavings. A long straw is also a great addition for sipping this delightful concoction.
Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic Baileys Coffee Milkshake is phenomenal on its own, it’s also a fantastic canvas for creative additions. Here are some delicious variations to customize your drink:
- Add Chocolate: For the ultimate chocolate-coffee experience, simply add 2 tablespoons of your favorite chocolate sauce or chocolate syrup to the blender along with the other ingredients. This deepens the flavor and adds a touch more sweetness. Alternatively, for a richer, bolder chocolate profile, swap out the vanilla ice cream for chocolate ice cream! You can even drizzle extra chocolate syrup inside the glass before pouring for a beautiful visual effect.
- Add Nutella: If you love the irresistible combination of chocolate and hazelnut, blend in 2 tablespoons of Nutella with your ice cream. This adds a unique, nutty richness that complements the coffee and Baileys beautifully, transforming your milkshake into a truly gourmet experience.
- Switch Up the Toppings: Have fun with your garnishes! Beyond whipped cream and chocolate shavings, consider a drizzle of luxurious caramel sauce, a sprinkle of festive sprinkles, a dash of cocoa powder, or even crushed nuts. For a minty twist, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the shake and top with crushed peppermint candies. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor each shake to your mood or event.
- Mint Chocolate Baileys Shake: Add 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract and a handful of chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate syrup to the blender. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
- Salted Caramel Baileys Shake: Drizzle caramel sauce into the blender and add a pinch of sea salt. Top with whipped cream and an extra caramel drizzle.
Craving more coffee-flavored recipes? Dive into these delightful treats: Classic Irish Coffee | Rich Coffee Brownies | Cinnamon Coffee Ice Cream | Decadent Coffee Cookies
Tips for the Best Baileys Coffee Milkshake
Achieving the perfect Baileys Coffee Milkshake is easy with a few simple tips that ensure a creamy, flavorful, and perfectly chilled beverage every time:
- Chill Everything: For the thickest, coldest milkshake, make sure all your liquid ingredients are well-chilled before blending. This includes your brewed coffee, Baileys, and whiskey. Even chilling your glasses in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before serving will make a noticeable difference in how long your shake stays frosty.
- Use Quality Ingredients: As with any simple recipe, the quality of your ingredients truly shines through. Opt for a good quality Irish whiskey, your favorite Baileys, and premium vanilla bean ice cream. Freshly brewed coffee (and cooled!) will always taste better than stale or instant coffee powder.
- Blend Just Enough: Blend until smooth, but avoid over-blending. Over-blending can warm up the ice cream and make the milkshake thinner than desired. Stop as soon as you achieve a consistent, lump-free texture.
- Adjust to Taste: This recipe is a guide, so feel free to adjust the amount of whiskey or Baileys to suit your preference. If you like it stronger, add a little more whiskey; for a sweeter, creamier touch, increase the Baileys slightly. You can also add a touch of sugar or a splash of milk if you find it too thick or not sweet enough.
- Serve Immediately: Milkshakes are best enjoyed right after blending when they are at their peak cold and creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of coffee should I use in this creamy coffee milkshake?
You have a lot of flexibility here! The best coffee to use is your personal favorite, as its flavor will be prominent. Whether you prefer a light, medium, or dark roast, any brewed coffee will work beautifully. For a stronger coffee flavor, especially if you love a robust kick, we sometimes use chilled espresso shots or a high-quality cold brew concentrate. However, be aware that espresso can make the milkshake very potent, so proceed with caution and adjust to your taste. Remember, the most important rule is that the coffee must be completely cooled before adding it to the blender to prevent melting the ice cream and creating a watery shake.
Can I make this non-alcoholic instead?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable to create a delicious non-alcoholic coffee milkshake. Simply omit both the Baileys Irish Cream and the Irish whiskey. To maintain the creamy consistency and flavor, swap in 1/3 cup of your preferred milk. Whole milk will provide the richest texture, but you can also use skim milk for a lighter version, or coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free alternative. You might also want to add a dash of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of caramel/chocolate syrup to enhance the flavor in the absence of the liqueurs.
Can I use instant coffee for this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant coffee for this recipe, but it’s important to prepare it correctly. Do not add instant coffee powder or instant coffee granules directly to the blender with the other ingredients. Instead, you need to brew the instant coffee first according to the package directions, allowing it to dissolve completely in hot water. Once brewed, let the coffee cool down completely (even chilling it in the fridge for a bit) before adding it to your blender with the ice cream and other ingredients. This ensures a smooth consistency and prevents any gritty texture.
Can I make it ahead of time?
While milkshakes are always best enjoyed immediately after blending for optimal texture and temperature, you can prepare this Baileys Coffee Milkshake a short while in advance. If you need to make it ahead, pour the blended shake into an airtight container and freeze for up to 30-60 minutes. Before serving, you might need to let it soften slightly at room temperature for 5-10 minutes or give it a quick re-blend to regain its creamy consistency. Keep in mind that the alcohol content can prevent it from freezing solid, but it will certainly thicken up.
Need some inspiration for cocktail hour? Explore my extensive collection of cocktail recipes!
More Irresistible Baileys Recipes to Enjoy
If you’re a fan of Baileys Irish Cream, there’s a whole world of delightful recipes waiting to be explored. From hot beverages to decadent desserts, Baileys adds a unique creamy, boozy twist that’s simply divine:
- Boozy Baileys Hot Chocolate is the perfect antidote to a cold evening. This rich, creamy, and indulgent hot drink is essentially the warm, comforting opposite of our milkshake, offering a cozy embrace of chocolate and Irish cream.
- This no-cook, four-ingredient Baileys Fudge is a perennial favorite. It’s incredibly easy to make and yields a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for gifting or simply enjoying any time of the year.
- Love Oreos? These Oreo Baileys Truffles are a dream come true. Rich, creamy, and with just a hint of that signature Baileys booze, they are perfect bite-sized indulgences for any gathering or a quiet treat.
- If you have a soft spot for a truly rich slice of cheesecake, then this layered Baileys Cheesecake is an absolute must-make. It’s an impressive dessert that beautifully showcases the creamy liqueur in every luscious bite.
Finally, if you whip up this incredible Baileys Coffee Milkshake recipe, please be sure to give it a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! I absolutely adore hearing about your experiences in the kitchen, and I make it a priority to respond to every single comment. Your feedback means the world to me!
Don’t hesitate to drop any questions below if you have them – I’m always happy to help!
Oh, and make sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is my favorite thing, and I truly cherish looking through all your photos. It genuinely means the world to me!
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Baileys Irish Coffee Shake
Ingredients
- 4 oz Irish whiskey I used Jameson for its smooth flavor
- 2 oz Baileys Irish Cream or your preferred brand
- 4 oz coffee freshly brewed and cooled completely
- 5 cups vanilla bean or vanilla ice cream high quality for best results
- Whipped cream for garnish (optional)
- Chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Add the Irish whiskey, Baileys Irish Cream, cooled coffee, and vanilla ice cream to a high-speed blender in this order. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
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Divide the luscious milkshake mixture evenly between two large, chilled glasses. Garnish generously with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired, and serve immediately for the best experience.