The union of classic chocolate chip cookies and Baileys Irish Cream creates a uniquely indulgent treat that’s perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings. Each bite melts in your mouth with gooey chocolate chips and a warm, boozy undertone that makes them unforgettable.
These cookies are an elevated take on a familiar favorite, offering an adult-approved twist while still delivering that beloved chewy texture and rich flavor. Serve them at your next party or bake a batch for a quiet night in—they’re guaranteed to impress either way.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
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1 cup packed brown sugar
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
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1/3 cup Baileys Irish Cream
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2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well blended.
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Beat in vanilla, egg, egg yolk, and Baileys Irish Cream until light and creamy.
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Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Stir in chocolate chips by hand.
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Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets.
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Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are just golden (centers will look slightly underbaked).
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Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 215 kcal | Servings: 24 cookies
A Richly Decadent Dessert: Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just cookies—they’re a luxurious upgrade to one of the most beloved sweet treats in the world. Imagine the soft, gooey comfort of a homemade chocolate chip cookie infused with the velvety notes of Baileys Irish Cream. The result is a cookie that’s rich, slightly boozy, and utterly addictive. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special celebration, or simply indulging in a quiet moment of pleasure, these cookies deliver on all fronts.
These cookies combine the cozy nostalgia of classic chocolate chip cookies with the refined taste of Irish cream liqueur. The balance of sweetness, chocolate, and the creamy, complex flavor of Baileys creates an irresistible dessert that’s sophisticated enough for adults but still approachable for anyone who loves a good cookie. The alcohol bakes off during cooking, leaving behind just the warm depth and silky notes that Baileys is known for. This makes the recipe perfect for all occasions where you want to offer something just a bit more special.
The Flavor Profile That Sets These Cookies Apart
Baileys Irish Cream brings a unique twist to traditional cookie recipes. It’s made from a blend of Irish whiskey and cream, which contributes a distinctively smooth, caramel-like flavor with notes of vanilla and cocoa. When combined with semi-sweet chocolate chips, the result is a beautiful harmony of bittersweet richness and creamy sweetness.
The use of brown sugar adds a hint of molasses and chewiness to the texture, while the vanilla enhances both the Baileys and the chocolate. The melted butter contributes to a silky dough that creates cookies with crispy edges and soft, melty centers. These layers of flavor and texture are what elevate this cookie from everyday to extraordinary.
The Texture: Soft, Chewy, and Indulgent
Texture is key in a great chocolate chip cookie, and this recipe doesn’t disappoint. The edges bake up golden and crisp, while the center remains tender and slightly gooey, thanks to the egg yolk and Baileys in the dough. That luxurious, chewy texture is what makes each bite so satisfying.
Because of the alcohol and additional fat content from the Baileys, the cookies don’t dry out easily. They remain moist for days, making them perfect for baking ahead of time or giving as edible gifts. You can even freeze the dough in scoops and bake off a few cookies at a time whenever the craving hits.
Why Baileys? A Touch of Irish Charm
Adding Baileys Irish Cream isn’t just a gimmick—it brings a whole new dimension to the cookie. Baileys has been a staple in desserts for decades, from cheesecakes to frostings, because of how well it complements chocolate and other rich flavors. In this cookie, it brings a smooth, slightly boozy warmth that deepens the flavor profile without overpowering it.
Plus, it turns a simple treat into something that feels just a bit more adult. You might not serve these to kids (although, again, the alcohol content largely evaporates during baking), but they’re perfect for a grown-up gathering, a dinner party, or a girls’ night in. Serve them with coffee, a glass of milk, or even a splash more Baileys on the side for a truly indulgent pairing.
Serving Ideas and Variations
These cookies are excellent on their own, but they also make a fantastic base for creative dessert ideas. Sandwich them around a scoop of ice cream for a luxurious adult ice cream sandwich. Crumble them over a rich chocolate mousse or use them as a base for a cookie crumble tart.
If you’re feeling experimental, you can also try other flavored liqueurs in place of Baileys—like Kahlúa, Amarula, or even Frangelico—for a different twist. You can also mix in other types of chocolate (dark, milk, or even white) to create a more complex flavor profile. Nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts also pair beautifully with the Baileys flavor and add a nice crunch.
Baking Tips for Best Results
To get the perfect Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies every time, a few baking tips will go a long way:
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Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
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Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures even mixing and prevents the butter from solidifying when combined with cold liquids.
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Don’t overbake: These cookies should come out slightly underdone in the center. They’ll continue to set on the baking sheet as they cool.
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High-quality chocolate: Invest in good quality chocolate chips or chunks—they make a noticeable difference in the final taste.
Storing and Freezing
These cookies store beautifully, both baked and unbaked. Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just reheat briefly in the microwave or oven to bring back that just-baked softness.
For unbaked dough, scoop the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can bake them straight from frozen—just add a minute or two to the bake time.
Perfect for Any Occasion
From cozy winter evenings to festive holiday trays, Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are a versatile treat. They’re just sophisticated enough to bring to a dinner party or give as a homemade gift, but still comforting and easy enough to whip up on a weeknight when you’re craving something sweet. Their blend of familiar and indulgent makes them universally loved.
They’re also a hit during the holidays—especially St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas, or any occasion when a little Irish charm is welcome in the kitchen. Wrap a dozen in a pretty box or jar with a ribbon for a beautiful edible gift idea.
Conclusion
Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are more than just another cookie recipe—they’re an experience. The richness of the chocolate, the creaminess of Baileys, and the chewy, satisfying texture all come together to create a dessert that feels both comforting and special. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or treating yourself after a long day, these cookies deliver indulgence in every bite.
Their versatility, ease of preparation, and luxurious flavor make them a standout among homemade desserts. If you’re looking to elevate your baking game with minimal effort but maximum payoff, this is the recipe you need to try. Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are the grown-up, gourmet twist on a timeless favorite—and once you try them, they’re bound to become a staple in your baking rotation.