Why I Love This Recipe
This Weight Watchers-friendly Irish Cream is the perfect guilt-free indulgence for those who want to enjoy the creamy, rich flavor of Baileys without the extra calories. With just 1/4 cup of zero-calorie sweetener, you can get the sweetness of Irish cream, while the unsweetened almond milk and Irish whiskey give it that authentic smooth taste. The addition of unsweetened cocoa powder and instant coffee adds depth and complexity, making this a true treat. I love how customizable it is—whether you want it sweeter or with a stronger coffee flavor, you can tweak it to suit your tastes. Plus, it’s easy to make, and perfect for a cozy drink or a special occasion without any of the guilt!
Recipe Details
Duration
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 2-3 servings (depending on size)
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup Irish whiskey (use a lower-calorie brand if available)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 cup zero-calorie sweetener (adjust to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- Ice cubes (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients in Blender:
- In a blender, add the unsweetened almond milk, Irish whiskey, unsweetened cocoa powder, instant coffee granules, vanilla extract, almond extract, zero-calorie sweetener, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Blend everything together on high speed until the mixture is smooth, and the cocoa powder and coffee granules are completely dissolved. The result should be a creamy, thick liquid with a rich brown color.
- Taste and Adjust Sweetness:
- Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more sweetener if necessary. Keep in mind, this version won’t be as thick or sweet as traditional Baileys, but it will have a similar flavor profile. Add more sweetener for a sweeter drink or more coffee for a stronger flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Pour the mixture into a glass. If you like it cold, add ice cubes to the glass before pouring. Stir gently to combine and serve.
- Storage:
- Store your homemade Irish cream in an airtight container or bottle in the refrigerator. Be sure to shake or stir it before each use, as the ingredients may settle over time.
Tips & Tricks
- Adjust the Whiskey:
If you’re looking to reduce the alcohol content or make the drink even lighter, you can reduce the Irish whiskey to 1/4 cup or try using a lower-calorie whiskey to cut down on calories. - Make it Creamier:
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute the almond milk with coconut milk or even a low-fat dairy milk. This will add more richness to the drink. - Flavor Variations:
- For a minty twist, add a few drops of mint extract.
- For a chocolate-mocha version, increase the instant coffee granules and add chocolate chips or dark chocolate shavings to the blend.
Notes
- Zero-Calorie Sweetener Options:
You can use any zero-calorie sweetener of your choice, such as stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. Some sweeteners have a stronger aftertaste, so taste and adjust as you go. - Shelf Life:
This homemade Irish cream will keep for up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. - Texture:
Since this version doesn’t have the heavy cream or dairy found in traditional Baileys, it will be slightly lighter. If you want to thicken it up, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or coconut cream.
FAQs
1. Can I make this alcohol-free?
Yes, simply omit the Irish whiskey for a non-alcoholic version. The flavors will still be delicious, but you’ll lose the traditional Irish cream kick.
2. Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can use regular dairy milk or any other plant-based milk. Keep in mind that using regular milk will slightly increase the calorie count.
3. Can I freeze this homemade Irish cream?
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe as it may alter the texture and flavor. Store it in the fridge for best results.
Storage
- Refrigeration:
Keep your homemade Irish cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to shake or stir before using to combine any settled ingredients. - Serving Suggestion:
Enjoy it on its own over ice, in coffee, or as a sweet addition to desserts like brownies or cakes. You can also pour it into hot beverages like coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
This Weight Watchers-friendly Irish Cream gives you the indulgence of Baileys without the extra calories, allowing you to treat yourself to a delicious, creamy drink that you can enjoy guilt-free. Perfect for those looking to stick to their plan while still enjoying the rich, decadent flavors of Irish cream!
