3 Baileys and coffee recipes

Irish coffee has been a classic since the early 1950s. Some fans of the beverage believe it was first served in the United States at Buena Vista Cafe in San Francisco, while others give the credit to Tom Bergin's Tavern in Los Angeles. No matter where it started, it continues to be a winter favorite.

Be sure to use an espresso roast in these recipes or the alcohol will overwhelm the coffee flavor. You can easily change the flavors by using one of the flavored Baileys Irish Creams rather than the classic. You should adjust the amounts of sugar and alcohol to your own tastes.

Baileys afternoon delight

Caramel vodka is added to Baileys and coffee to create a chocolate truffle in drinkable form. The splash of Kahlua just adds an extra punch of coffee flavor.

Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce Baileys Irish Cream
• 1/2 ounce caramel vodka
• 1/2 ounce Kahlua
• 1 teaspoon sugar, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon chocolate syrup
• 4 ounces strongly brewed Italian roast coffee
• 2 tablespoons lightly sweetened whipped cream
• Grated chocolate for garnish

Instructions:

1. Mix the Baileys, vodka and Kahlua in the bottom of a coffee cup.
2. Add the coffee, chocolate and sugar. Stir well.
3. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of grated chocolate.

Irish temper

Settle in for the evening with an old movie, a roaring fire and this silky smooth coffee with a spicy kick.

Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces Baileys Irish Cream
• 1 ounce spiced rum
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 4 ounces strongly brewed Italian roast coffee
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• Cinnamon to dust on top

Instructions:

1. Lightly whip the cream with a little sugar, just until it is thickened but does not hold peaks.
2. Mix the Baileys, rum and sugar in the bottom of a warmed coffee cup.
3. Pour in the hot coffee and mix well.
4. Spoon two tablespoons of the cream over the top and dust with cinnamon.

Baileys coffee punch for a crowd

Go ahead and offer to make the punch for the office Christmas Party. Your promotion should be in place before New Years with this decadent coffee for a crowd.

Yield: 24 servings

Ingredients:

• 2 quarts strongly brewed Italian roast coffee, chilled
• 3 cups Baileys Irish Cream
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 gallon premium vanilla ice cream
• Shaved chocolate for garnish, if desired

Instructions:

1. Mix the coffee, Baileys and sugar in a punch bowl just before serving time.
2. Add scoops of vanilla ice cream.
3. Sprinkle shaved chocolate over everything.

More coffee recipes

Iced coffee cocktails
Pumpkin spice latte
Coffee liqueur sundae

Photo credit: © Marye Audet 2011