Make Some Baileys
Baileys is an Irish alcoholic beverage that combines whiskey with crème to make a rich combination that is used to flavor coffee, as a base for other drinks or consumed simply, by pouring over ice. With its rich smoothness, Baileys Irish Cream is often a popular drink during the winter holiday season or other special occasions. Making a drink very similar to Baileys at home is simple to accomplish.
The Ingredients
Irish whiskey is used most often in creating a Baileys Irish Cream, although any whiskey and sometimes brandy is used instead. Recipes differ in the use of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup. They also differ in using heavy cream or half and half. While each variation will give a slightly different taste to the Irish Cream that you make, all are very similar to the Baileys brand.
Version One
In a blender, combine 1 2/3 cups of Irish whiskey, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup light cream, 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup and 1 teaspoon each of vanilla, instant coffee and almond extract. Blend on high until very well blended. Pour into a bottle with a tight fitting lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
Version Two
In the blender combine 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 12 ounces of heavy cream, 3 eggs, 1 cup whiskey, 1/4 teaspoon of coconut flavoring and 1 1/2 teaspoons of chocolate syrup. Blend on high and store in the refrigerator. This version, because of the egg content, should be consumed within 3 weeks.
Version Three
A simpler version of Baileys can be made by combining 2 cans of evaporated milk, 1 cup cheap whiskey, 1 can of condensed milk and 3 tablespoons of dark cocoa. Blend with a whisk until totally combined. Serve over ice or in coffee.
Additional Info on Homemade
While Baileys guarantees that their Irish Cream will last up to two years after opening, the same cannot be said for homemade. Homemade does require refrigeration and, at most, can be kept for approximately 2 months. Before serving homemade Baileys, always shake the bottle to insure that the ingredients are well blended. If the homemade Irish cream begins to smell sour, it is time to throw it out and make a new batch.
