Ultimate Creamy Baileys Cheesecake Recipe: A Decadent Irish Cream Dessert

Indulge in the rich, velvety perfection of a Baileys cheesecake, a truly grown-up dessert that expertly balances the luscious creaminess of Irish cream liqueur with a crunchy chocolate crust and a silky Baileys ganache topping. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience – creamy, subtly boozy, and perfectly sweet, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s impossible to resist. Surprisingly easy to make, it’s the ideal showstopper for any occasion.

About This Baileys Cheesecake

If your heart beats for the rich, creamy texture of a classic cheesecake and you appreciate the warming notes of Irish cream, then this Baileys cheesecake recipe is an absolute dream come true. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a culinary masterpiece designed to evoke sighs of pure delight from the very first bite. Achieving that “eyes-closed, blissful” reaction from guests is always my ultimate goal, and this Irish cream cheesecake consistently delivers.

Every element of this Baileys cheesecake is carefully crafted to create a symphony of flavors and textures. It begins with a robust foundation: a crunchy, subtly sweet chocolate graham cracker crust. The deep chocolate notes provide the perfect contrast to the creamy filling, offering a satisfying crunch with every forkful. This crust isn’t just a base; it’s an integral part of the flavor profile, perfectly complementing the richness of the Irish cream.

Then comes the star of the show: the cheesecake filling. This particular recipe uses a tried-and-true base that I’ve perfected over many years and use for all my cheesecake creations. It strikes that elusive balance of being incredibly creamy without being overly dense, yet substantial enough to hold its shape beautifully. It quite literally melts in your mouth. Infused with a generous amount of Baileys Irish Cream, the filling offers a sophisticated, boozy warmth. But here’s the secret: a hint of espresso powder. This isn’t for a strong coffee flavor, but rather to subtly amplify and deepen the complex notes of the Baileys and chocolate, creating an even more irresistible experience.

The grand finale is the Baileys chocolate ganache. This glossy, intensely chocolatey topping is spiked with an additional touch of Irish cream liqueur, ensuring every layer harmonizes perfectly. Its silky, smooth texture sets just enough to be sliceable, yet remains luxuriously decadent. Honestly, I’d happily eat this ganache straight from the spoon – it’s that good and truly ties all the indulgent components together.

While this recipe involves a few distinct steps, the effort is undeniably worth it. What’s more, it’s my absolute favorite make-ahead dessert, making it perfect for dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion where you want to impress without the last-minute stress. Prepare it the day before, let it chill beautifully overnight, and you’ll be ready to serve an effortlessly elegant dessert that will be the talk of the table.

Ingredients for Baileys Cheesecake

To create this magnificent Baileys cheesecake, you’ll need a selection of quality ingredients that come together to form its distinct layers. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Chocolate Graham Crackers: These are the backbone of our crunchy, flavorful crust. Chocolate graham crackers perfectly complement the Irish cream and chocolate ganache. If you can’t find them, chocolate wafer cookies or even Oreos (with their cream filling left in) make excellent alternatives, offering a rich, crumbly texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Essential for both the crust and the creamy filling, granulated sugar provides the perfect level of sweetness without overpowering the subtle flavors of Baileys and chocolate.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted unsalted butter binds the crust together, ensuring it holds its shape perfectly. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the overall saltiness of the cheesecake. If using salted butter, remember to omit the pinch of salt specified in the recipe.
• Cream Cheese: The heart of any cheesecake! Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature and fully softened. This is crucial for achieving a lump-free, silky-smooth filling that melts in your mouth. Cold cream cheese will result in a clumpy texture, no matter how long you beat it.
• All-Purpose Flour: Just a small amount of all-purpose flour helps stabilize the cheesecake filling, preventing cracks and giving it that signature smooth, dense-yet-light texture.
• Fine Kosher Salt: A pinch of salt is vital in baking as it enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the depth of the chocolate and Irish cream.
• Vanilla Extract: High-quality vanilla extract adds a foundational layer of aromatic warmth. For the best flavor, consider making your own homemade vanilla extract, or opt for a premium brand like Nielsen Massey’s Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract.
• Large Eggs: Eggs are crucial for the structure and richness of the cheesecake filling. Ensure they are at room temperature before adding them to the batter, as this helps them incorporate more smoothly and prevents overmixing.
• Baileys Irish Cream: The star flavor! We highly recommend using authentic Baileys Irish Cream for its iconic, smooth, and distinct flavor profile. However, feel free to use your favorite brand of Irish cream liqueur if preferred. It infuses the filling with a delightful boozy warmth.
• Espresso Powder: Don’t skip this ingredient! While it might seem unconventional, espresso powder doesn’t make the cheesecake taste like coffee. Instead, it acts as a flavor enhancer, deepening the chocolate notes and boosting the rich, complex profile of the Irish cream, making the overall flavor more robust and nuanced.
• Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate: For the luxurious ganache topping, finely chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate is ideal. We often gravitate towards dark chocolate (70% to 80% cocoa) for a deeper, less sweet finish that complements the Baileys beautifully. High-quality chocolate will yield the best ganache.
• Heavy Cream: This rich cream forms the base of our glossy, decadent ganache. When heated and combined with chocolate and Irish cream, it creates that irresistibly smooth and luscious topping.

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

Having the right tools on hand will make the process of creating this Baileys cheesecake much smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 9-Inch Springform Pan: This specialized pan is absolutely essential for cheesecakes. Its removable sides allow for easy release of the delicate cheesecake without damaging its beautiful structure. A good quality Nordic Ware Springform Pan is highly recommended for consistent results.
• Food Processor: To achieve fine, uniform crumbs for the crust quickly and efficiently, a 9-Cup Food Processor is invaluable. It ensures the graham crackers are perfectly pulverized, leading to a consistent crust texture.
• Stand Mixer (with Paddle Attachment): For creating the smooth and airy cheesecake filling, a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment is ideal. It provides consistent, hands-free mixing. If you don’t have a stand mixer, a hand mixer and a large mixing bowl will also work effectively, just be mindful of scraping down the sides frequently.
• Small Saucepan: A small saucepan is needed to gently heat the heavy cream for the ganache, ensuring it reaches the perfect simmer before being poured over the chocolate.
• Heat-Safe Bowls: You’ll need at least one medium-sized, heat-safe bowl for melting the chocolate and combining the ganache ingredients. Stainless steel mixing bowls are a great option for their durability and heat retention. Having a few good mixing bowls in various sizes is always handy in the kitchen.

How to Make the Perfect Baileys Cheesecake

Creating this irresistible Baileys cheesecake involves a few key stages, each essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Follow these detailed steps for a truly decadent dessert:

Preparing the Chocolate Crust

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is at the correct temperature for the crust to bake evenly.
2. Make Crumbs: Place the chocolate graham crackers into a food processor. Pulse them until they are finely ground into even crumbs. Consistency here is key for a uniform crust.
3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the fine crumbs to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the granulated sugar for the crust and stir until well combined. This initial mix ensures the sugar is evenly distributed.
4. Add Butter: Pour in the melted unsalted butter. Stir thoroughly until all the crumbs are evenly moistened and just begin to clump together. The butter acts as the binding agent, holding the crust together once baked.
5. Press into Pan: Press this crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Extend the crust approximately 2 inches up the sides of the pan. Use the bottom of a flat-bottomed glass or your fingers to create a compact and even layer, ensuring a sturdy base for your cheesecake.
6. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until you can distinctly smell its fragrant, toasty aroma. This brief bake sets the crust and prevents it from becoming soggy. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before adding the filling. A cool crust prevents the filling from softening too much.

Crafting the Creamy Baileys Filling

1. Adjust Oven Temperature: Reduce your oven temperature to 300°F (150°C). A lower temperature is ideal for cheesecake, promoting slow baking and preventing cracks.
2. Cream Cheese Base: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a large bowl and a hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Beat for about 5 minutes until the mixture is incredibly smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air and preventing lumps.
3. Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until it is just combined. Avoid overmixing once the sugar is in.
4. Infuse Flavors: Mix in the vanilla extract, Baileys Irish Cream, and espresso powder. Continue beating until all these delightful flavors are fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform.
5. Incorporate Eggs: Add the large eggs one at a time, beating just until each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This gentle approach prevents overmixing, which can introduce too much air and lead to cracks in your baked cheesecake.
6. Fill the Crust: Carefully pour the creamy Baileys filling into the completely cooled chocolate graham cracker crust. Gently tap the pan on the counter a couple of times to release any trapped air bubbles.

Baking Your Cheesecake to Perfection

1. Bake: Place the cheesecake in the preheated 300°F (150°C) oven and bake for approximately 55-65 minutes. Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven.
2. Check for Doneness: The cheesecake is perfectly baked when the edges appear set and slightly puffed, but the very center still has a slight, gentle jiggle when the pan is lightly shaken. It should resemble the consistency of firm Jell-O. Do not bake until the center is completely firm, as it will continue to cook as it cools.
3. Cool Completely: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack. This slow cooling is essential to prevent cracks from forming due to a sudden temperature change. This can take several hours.

The All-Important Chill Time

Once the cheesecake has completely cooled to room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This extended chilling period is absolutely crucial. It allows the cheesecake to fully set, firm up, and for all the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in the best possible texture and taste.

Making the Decadent Ganache Topping

1. Prepare for Topping: Approximately 1 hour before you plan to serve the cheesecake, prepare the Baileys ganache topping. Place your finely chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate in a medium-sized heat-safe bowl.
2. Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, with small bubbles forming around the edges. Do not let it boil vigorously.
3. Combine: Immediately pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in the bowl. Let the mixture stand undisturbed for 1 to 1 ½ minutes. This allows the heat from the cream to begin melting the chocolate without scorching it.
4. Whisk to Smoothness: After the resting period, whisk the mixture thoroughly and gently until it becomes completely smooth, glossy, and all the chocolate is melted. If there are any stubborn lumps, you can gently heat the bowl over a double boiler (or microwave in short bursts) while continuing to whisk.
5. Add Baileys: Stir in the additional Baileys Irish Cream liqueur until it is fully incorporated into the ganache, adding another layer of rich flavor and a subtle boozy kick.
6. Top and Chill: Pour the warm, smooth ganache evenly over the top of the completely chilled cheesecake. Return the cheesecake to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache topping to set properly before attempting to slice and serve. This ensures clean, beautiful slices.

Expert Tips & Tricks for Cheesecake Success

Achieving a flawless Baileys cheesecake is easier than you think with these helpful tips:

• Always Soften Cream Cheese and Eggs: This is arguably the most crucial tip for any cheesecake! Ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before you begin mixing. Cold cream cheese will inevitably lead to a lumpy, uneven filling, no matter how much you beat it. Room temperature ingredients blend smoothly, creating that signature silky texture.
• No Water Bath Needed! Many cheesecake recipes call for a water bath, which can be messy and intimidating. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s specifically designed to achieve a perfectly smooth, crack-free cheesecake without one! The combination of proper ingredient temperatures, specific mixing techniques, and a gentle baking temperature eliminates the need for this extra step. You can confidently skip it.
• Don’t Overmix the Eggs: Once the eggs are added to the filling, mix just until they are incorporated. Overmixing introduces too much air into the batter, which can cause the cheesecake to puff up excessively during baking and then collapse and crack as it cools. Gentle mixing is key here.
• Cool Slowly and Completely: Sudden temperature changes are the enemy of a perfect cheesecake. Once baked, let the cheesecake cool gradually on the counter for several hours before transferring it to the refrigerator. This slow cooling process helps prevent cracking.
• Chill Thoroughly: Patience is a virtue when it comes to cheesecake. An extended chilling period (at least 8 hours, preferably overnight) allows the cheesecake to fully set, develop its rich flavor, and achieve its signature firm-yet-creamy texture. Don’t rush this step!
• For Clean Slices: To get those perfect, photo-worthy slices, run a sharp, thin knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and then slice. Repeat this process for each cut. This prevents the cheesecake and ganache from sticking and tearing.
• Know Your Oven: Every oven is different. Pay attention to the visual cues (set edges, slight jiggle in the center) rather than relying solely on the exact bake time. An oven thermometer can also be helpful to ensure accurate temperatures.

Craving more cheesecake goodness? Explore these fantastic recipes: Caramel Apple Crumble Cheesecake | Pecan Pie Cheesecake | Triple Berry Cheesecake | San Sebastian Cheesecake

Frequently Asked Questions About Baileys Cheesecake

Can You Get Drunk From Eating Baileys Cheesecake?

No, it’s highly unlikely you could get drunk from eating a slice of this Baileys cheesecake. During the baking process, a significant portion of the alcohol in the cheesecake filling evaporates due to the heat. While the ganache topping does contain a small amount of Baileys that isn’t cooked off, the overall alcohol content per serving is very minor and widely dispersed. You would need to consume an excessive amount of cheesecake to feel any alcoholic effects, which is not recommended for obvious reasons!

Is Baileys Cheesecake Suitable for Kids or Pregnant Women?

Given that the ganache topping contains a small amount of uncooked alcohol, we do not recommend serving the full Baileys cheesecake (with ganache) to anyone under the age of 21 or to pregnant individuals. For pregnant women, it is always best to consult with your doctor regarding any alcohol consumption. However, if you omit the ganache topping, the cheesecake filling itself would be suitable for kids and pregnant women, as the alcohol in the filling is baked off during the cooking process. You could consider a non-alcoholic chocolate sauce or whipped cream as an alternative topping for these guests.

Can I Use Regular Graham Crackers for the Cheesecake Crust?

Absolutely, you can use regular graham crackers for the crust if that’s what you have on hand or prefer. However, we highly recommend sticking with chocolate graham crackers, chocolate wafer cookies, or even crushed Oreos (no need to remove the filling!) because their deep chocolate flavor beautifully complements the Baileys-infused cheesecake filling and the rich chocolate ganache. The chocolate elements create a more cohesive and decadent flavor profile for this specific dessert. If you opt for chocolate wafer cookies, use the weight measurement provided in the recipe card for accuracy, as cracker sizes can vary.

Looking for more sweet inspiration? Don’t forget to check out my dessert recipes page for a wide array of treats!

Serving Suggestions for Your Baileys Cheesecake

This Baileys cheesecake is a showstopper on its own, but a few thoughtful pairings can elevate the experience even further. For a truly indulgent and cohesive treat, consider serving a slice with a warm, cozy mug of Irish coffee. The flavors of coffee, cream, and a hint of whiskey beautifully echo the notes in the cheesecake. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, or even a few fresh raspberries can add an extra layer of elegance and flavor contrast. For a non-alcoholic option, a classic hot chocolate or a simple espresso would also be delightful accompaniments.

How to Store and Freeze Baileys Cheesecake

Proper storage ensures your Baileys cheesecake remains fresh and delicious for as long as possible:

• Storage: Any leftover cheesecake should be stored promptly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in several layers of plastic wrap. This prevents it from absorbing odors from the refrigerator and drying out. When stored correctly, it will maintain its quality for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: Cheesecake freezes beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for future enjoyment. For best results, wrap individual slices tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. You can also wrap a larger portion or the entire cheesecake (if uncut) using the same double-wrapping method. Freeze for up to 1 month.
• Thawing: To enjoy frozen cheesecake, simply transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. This slow thawing process helps preserve its creamy texture. Enjoy it cold for the best experience.

More Delicious Ways to Enjoy Baileys Irish Cream

If you’re a fan of Baileys Irish Cream, there are countless other delightful ways to incorporate this creamy liqueur into your desserts and drinks. Beyond this incredible cheesecake, consider trying these recipes:

• This boozy Baileys Irish Coffee Milkshake is the ultimate grown-up treat, perfect for milkshake lovers seeking an indulgent kick.
• You only need four simple ingredients to whip up this incredibly addictive Baileys Fudge recipe – it’s dangerously easy and utterly delicious!
• Elevate your next ice cream sundae with a drizzle of homemade Baileys Hot Fudge Sauce! The creamy notes of Irish cream paired with rich chocolate create an unbeatable topping.

Finally, if you’ve been inspired to make this Baileys Irish Cream cheesecake recipe, please consider leaving a star rating and a comment on the recipe card below! Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and I truly love hearing about your experiences in the kitchen. I make every effort to respond to each and every comment.

Don’t hesitate to drop any questions you might have in the comments section as well!

And of course, be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you share photos of your creation! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite part of what I do – it means the world to me!

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Baileys Cheesecake

The creamiest Irish cream cheesecake featuring a spiked chocolate ganache topping and a satisfyingly crispy chocolate graham cracker crust.

Prep Time:

20 minutes
mins

Cook Time:

1 hour
hr
15 minutes
mins

Chill Time:

9 hours
hrs

Total Time:

10 hours
hrs
35 minutes
mins

Servings:
10

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Equipment

• 9-Cup Food Processor
• Nordic Ware Springform Pan
• Stand Mixer
• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowls

Ingredients

Crust

• 8 oz chocolate graham crackers (approx. 16 crackers)
• 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 7 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

Filling

• 4 (8 oz) cream cheese packages (room temperature)
• 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 3 Tbsp Baileys Irish Cream
• 1 1/2 tsp espresso powder

Topping

• 8 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate (finely chopped)
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur

Instructions

For the Crust

• 1. Preheat the oven to 375˚F (190°C).
• 2. Add graham crackers to a food processor. Pulse until the crackers are fine crumbs.
• 3. Pour the crumbs into a medium bowl and add sugar for the crust. Stir to combine.
• 4. Pour in melted butter, stirring until the crumbs are moistened and clump together slightly.
• 5. Press the crumb mixture firmly into a 9-inch springform pan. Be sure to press it into the base, as well as up the sides about 2 inches.
• 6. Bake until fragrant, about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.

For the Filling

• 1. Lower the oven temperature to 300˚F (150°C).
• 2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat room temperature cream cheese, flour, and salt until smooth and fluffy. This will take about 5 minutes.
• 3. Add sugar and beat until just combined.
• 4. Add vanilla, Irish cream and espresso powder, beating until fully incorporated.
• 5. Add eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated after each addition. Avoid overmixing.
• 6. Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
• 7. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly (like firm Jell-O).
• 8. Remove from the oven and cool completely on the counter (this can take several hours) before placing in the refrigerator to chill. Chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight.

For the Topping

• 1. Approximately 1 hour before serving the cheesecake, prepare the topping.
• 2. Place finely chopped chocolate in a medium heat-safe bowl. Set aside.
• 3. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it comes to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around the edge).
• 4. Immediately pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let it stand undisturbed for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes.
• 5. Whisk well until the mixture is completely smooth, glossy, and the chocolate has melted. Whisk in the Baileys Irish Cream.
• 6. Pour the ganache topping evenly over the thoroughly chilled cheesecake. Chill in the fridge for another 1 hour to allow the topping to set before slicing and serving.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice |
Calories: 661kcal |
Carbohydrates: 63g |
Protein: 9g |
Fat: 41g |
Saturated Fat: 23g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 11g |
Trans Fat: 0.3g |
Cholesterol: 142mg |
Sodium: 350mg |
Potassium: 300mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 43g |
Vitamin A: 1068IU |
Vitamin C: 0.1mg |
Calcium: 92mg |
Iron: 4mg

Calories:

661
kcal

Cuisine:
American

Category:
Dessert