Baileys and Coffee Cocktail Recipe

There’s just something about the way Baileys and coffee blend together—smooth, creamy, and honestly, kind of irresistible. That rich coffee edge cuts through the sweetness of Irish cream, making it feel cozy and a bit decadent at the same time.

You can whip up this Baileys and coffee cocktail in just a few minutes, and you really don’t need much to get started.

Whenever I’m craving something warm and comforting, but want a little treat, this is what I reach for. It’s easy, no barista-level skills required, and feels like a reward after a long day.

Enjoy it after dinner, or maybe as a lazy weekend pick-me-up. There aren’t a lot of rules here.

I’ll walk you through exactly how I make mine, step by step. I’ll also cover the equipment and ingredients, plus a few notes on what to expect from the taste.

Baileys And Coffee Cocktail Recipe

I tend to make this when I want something sweet, creamy, and just a bit boozy. It works hot or iced, and you can tweak the sweetness and strength however you like.

Equipment

• Coffee maker, French press, or espresso machine
• Measuring jigger or shot glass
• Heat-safe mug for hot drinks or tall glass for iced drinks
• Long spoon for stirring
• Small whisk or milk frother (optional, for whipped cream)
• Ice cube tray (if making iced coffee)
• Small grater for chocolate shavings (optional)

I usually keep these tools within reach, so I can throw the drink together quickly. The right mug or glass helps keep everything at the right temperature, and honestly, it just looks nicer.

Ingredients

• 1 shot (1.5 oz) Baileys Irish Cream
• 1 cup freshly brewed coffee or 2 shots espresso
• Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
• Ice cubes (for iced version)
• 1–2 tsp simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Chocolate shavings (optional garnish)

I like using espresso for a stronger kick, but regular coffee is totally fine. If you’re making it iced, try brewing the coffee a little stronger so it doesn’t end up too watery.

Instructions

• Brew your coffee or pull a couple espresso shots.
• For iced coffee, let it cool a bit and fill up a tall glass with ice.
• Pour the Baileys into your mug or glass.
• Add the hot coffee or cooled iced coffee right over the Baileys.
• Stir gently so everything comes together.
• Taste it—add simple syrup if you want it a bit sweeter.
• Top with whipped cream.
• Sprinkle chocolate shavings on top if you’re feeling fancy.

I usually stir before adding the whipped cream so the flavors blend nicely. For iced versions, sometimes I’ll use coffee ice cubes so it doesn’t get watered down.

Notes

I tend to go with about equal parts Baileys and coffee, but you can really play with the ratio. Fresh whipped cream is amazing, but if you’re in a hurry, just grab the canned stuff.

If you want a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of drip. For something lighter, add more coffee and less Baileys.

You can leave off the whipped cream and chocolate if you prefer things simple. For iced drinks, chilling the glass first keeps it colder longer.

Let me know if you want a hot vs iced Baileys coffee comparison section added here. I think it could be useful, but it’s up to you.

Tasting Notes

Right from the first sip, there’s this unmistakable creaminess. The Baileys kind of melts into the coffee, making it silky and rich, but thankfully not too heavy.

There’s a gentle sweetness that hits first—definitely the Baileys talking. Then the coffee steps in with just enough bitterness to keep things interesting.

Neither flavor really takes over, which is honestly kind of impressive. I can taste both, and they seem happy to share the spotlight.

As it sits in my hands and warms up a bit, I start to notice these subtle hints of chocolate and vanilla. They’re not in-your-face, but they’re there if you’re paying attention.

From the first sip to the last, it just stays pleasant. Even as the ice melts or the coffee cools, the balance sticks around.

Personally, I like it best warm in a mug. But honestly, it’s pretty great over ice too—the creaminess shines in both versions, just in different ways.

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