Baileys Irish Cream Brownies Recipe

If you love rich, fudgy brownies with a boozy twist, then you’re going to be absolutely thrilled with this Baileys Irish Cream Brownies Recipe. I’ve been making these for friends and family for years, and every single time, people can’t get enough of the silky Baileys-infused frosting paired with the dense chocolate base. It’s the perfect easy-but-impressive dessert to whip up for any occasion, and I’m excited to walk you through my favorite way to make it just right.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a key role in delivering that fudgy, boozy goodness. I always recommend using high-quality cocoa powder and fresh eggs—those little details make a huge difference in the final flavor and texture.

• Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness and helps the sweetness shine.
• Granulated sugar: Gives the brownies the perfect sweet balance without overpowering.
• Cocoa powder: I find natural unsweetened cocoa powder works best to get that deep chocolate flavor.
• Baileys Irish Cream: The star ingredient—adds that creamy, boozy note throughout both the brownies and frosting.
• Kosher salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those flavors.
• Large eggs: Help bind everything while contributing to moistness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate.
• Semisweet chocolate chips: For melty pockets of chocolate goodness.
• All-purpose flour: Just enough to hold everything together without drying out the brownies.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): Key for a smooth, tangy frosting that contrasts the sweet brownies.
• Powdered sugar: For a silky, lump-free frosting.

Variations

I love how versatile this Baileys Irish Cream Brownies Recipe is—once you master the base, it’s so fun to make it your own. I often switch up the frosting or add mix-ins to keep things interesting.

• Nutty upgrade: I once tossed in chopped toasted pecans and the added crunch was a welcome surprise for my family.
• Dairy-free option: Try substituting coconut butter and a vegan cream cheese alternative for a dairy-free treat.
• Extra boozy: If you want to kick up the Baileys flavor, swirl a bit more into the batter and frosting—but be cautious not to add too much or it can affect the texture.
• Chocolate lovers’ dream: Mix in some espresso powder for a mocha twist that intensifies the chocolate.

How to Make Baileys Irish Cream Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Mix Your Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper—this makes removing those fudgy brownies a breeze. Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then take it off the heat. Quickly whisk in the sugar, cocoa powder, Baileys Irish Cream, and salt until everything is super smooth and glossy. I always make sure to whisk vigorously to avoid any lumps—this step really sets the tone for how fudgy your brownies will be.

Step 2: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Chocolate Chips

Next, whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This process helps create that rich, silky batter you want in a truly excellent brownie. Then, fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and all-purpose flour just until incorporated. Don’t overmix here—overworking the batter can lead to tougher brownies, and who wants that?

Step 3: Bake and Cool

Spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan, then bake for about 22-25 minutes. I always start checking at around 22 minutes with a toothpick—the key is it should come out mostly clean but with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Patience is key here because the brownies need at least an hour to set up before frosting.

Step 4: Whip Up the Baileys Cream Cheese Frosting

While the brownies are cooling, get started on that dreamy frosting. Beat the room-temperature cream cheese, butter, and a pinch of salt together in a stand mixer until smooth and creamy, scraping the bowl down occasionally (this little trick ensures a lump-free finish). Then, reduce the speed and add in the powdered sugar gradually. Once combined, mix in the Baileys Irish Cream and beat on medium speed for another minute or two until it’s light and fluffy—this frosting is what takes these brownies to the next level!

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Once the brownies are fully cooled, gently lift them out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Spread the frosting evenly over the top, then cut into 16 squares. When I first tried this step, I was worried about the frosting smearing, but a chilled pan and a sharp knife makes cutting a breeze. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days (if they last that long!).

How to Serve Baileys Irish Cream Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a few chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top of the frosting when serving—it adds a touch of elegance and a little extra chocolate kick. Sometimes, I also toss on crushed toasted pecans for crunch and a nutty contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy Baileys flavor.

Side Dishes

This dessert goes wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If it’s a chilly day, I serve it alongside a warm cup of coffee or Irish cream liqueur for an extra special treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I’ve arranged these brownies elegantly on tiered serving trays with garnish scattered around for guests to help themselves. Around holidays, adding a drizzle of melted white chocolate or some green and gold sprinkles makes it festive and fun. One time, I even made mini brownie bites with frosting piped on top for a bite-sized twist that disappeared in seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge—this keeps the frosting fresh and the brownies moist. They stay delicious for about 3 days, but honestly, they rarely last that long in my house!

Freezing

If I want to save some for later, I wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well frozen for up to 2 months. When thawed, the texture is surprisingly close to fresh, especially if you let them come to room temperature before eating.

Reheating

I usually recommend enjoying these brownies cold or at room temperature so the frosting stays fluffy. But if you prefer warm brownies, gently microwave a piece for 10-15 seconds—just enough to warm the brownie without melting the frosting completely.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Making these Baileys Irish Cream Brownies has become one of my favorite ways to impress guests—or just treat myself on a cozy night in. The combination of fudgy chocolate and that dreamy, boozy frosting feels so indulgent yet approachable. I hope you’ll give this recipe a go and discover just how satisfying it is to bake something so delightfully delicious with just a few simple steps. If you do, don’t forget to let me know how your batch turns out—sharing these moments with good food is what makes the kitchen fun!

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