Pouring Baileys Irish Cream Into the Coffee
The delightful experience of sipping a hot cup of coffee blended with Baileys Irish Cream is an indulgence that offers a cozy moment for its guests. For this recipe, prepare a cup of high-quality fresh-brewed coffee as desired. Be sure to choose a mild to medium roast that won’t overpower the Bailey’s Irish Cream. Measure out one jigger of Baileys Irish Cream, which is equal to 1.5 fluid ounces, or 3 tablespoons, and pour it into the hot coffee. Then, stir the mixture with a spoon so that the flavor of the cream is evenly distributed throughout the beverage.
Warming Up The Irish Cream
Another method of preparing the ultimate cup of Bailey’s Irish Cream and coffee is to warm the cream first. To do this, pour the Irish Cream into a heat safe mug. Heat up the cream using a microwave or double boiler. Do not allow the cream to boil. If desired, you may add a pinch of ground ginger, ground cinnamon or nutmeg to give the drink a pleasant spicy kick. Once the cream is warm, add it to the hot coffee and stir to combine.
Creating a Thin Layer of Foam
The intense creaminess of Baileys Irish Cream tends to overpower the feathery lightness of coffee foam. If a thinner foam is desired, use an immersion blender to blend the Bailey’s Irish Cream and coffee together. This creates a more airy and smooth layer of foam on the surface of the drink and holds the flavor of Baileys Irish Cream within the beverage. The extra light and silky foam will give the drink a delectable, velvety texture that perfectly accentuates the honey and almond flavors with a pleasant bite.
Using an Espresso Machine
The espresso machine, along with steaming milk, is also another effective option in preparing a baileys irish cream coffee. Pour one jigger of Baileys Irish Cream into an espresso cup and heat it up using an espresso machine. On the other hand, to steam the milk, slot the steaming wand into the milk and start to move the wand up and down the milk container to create a foamy layer. Afterward, pour the ready espresso over the cream, then add the steamed milk. Any leftovers of Baileys Irish Cream and steamed milk should be added to the espresso to make a good basis of the drink.
Choosing the Right Coffee Beans
Pairing an espresso with Bailey’s Irish Cream is important and the focus should be on the flavor of the coffee beans, which should be blended with the whiskey’s nutty-toffee tones. Whether you want to make a sweet after-dinner drink or a creamy caffeine kick, opt for coffee beans that will balance out the sweetness of the drink. Light, smooth coffee beans are perfect complements to the creamy and decadent Bailey’s, as the slight bitterness of the coffee will add complexity to the drink. Choose from a light roast, such as those from Central and South American regions, or a mild, nutty flavor from a medium roast.
Garnishing for a Special Occasion
For special occasions, there are several decorations that can be added to the drink. Cocktail fans can add an extra splash of Irish Cream and add a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ground ginger on top. If you’d like to make the drink extra special, try topping the creamy Irish Cream with a dash of ground nutmeg, cinnamon, or cocoa powder. Chocolate shavings or a dusting of icing sugar are also nice options to garnish the Baileys Irish Cream coffee.
Creating Unique Flavored Lattes
Once the traditional Irish Coffee made of Baileys Irish Cream and coffee has become a consistent favorite, it is time to try variations and create a whole new flavor profile. Adding flavors such as red pepper flakes, chorizo, or vanilla extracts can give the coffee an interesting flavor blend. Caramel, peanut butter, and hazelnut are also suitable choices for these Baileys Irish Cream lattes. If you’re feeling experimental, try adding a shot of whiskey to the mix for an extra deep and warm flavor sensation.
Making an Iced Versions
Iced coffee and Baileys Irish Cream make a great duo. For this iced version, brew some cold brew or use strong-tasting espresso beans. Measure out one shot of espresso, or 2 to 3 tablespoons, and pour into a tall glass. Then, pour 1.5 ounces of Bailey’s Irish Cream into the mix, and fill the glass with ice. Top the drink off with a splash of cream and sprinkle some ground cinnamon for extra flavor. Serve the drink with a straw for easy sipping and enjoy.
Adding Other Creamy Liqueurs
For a velvety smooth twist on the traditional Bailey’s Irish Cream and coffee combo, try combining it with other liqueurs. A creamy kahlua topped with a layer of Bailey’s will provide a rich, creamy sweetness while the kahlua gives the coffee a warm and robust flavor. You may also try a Licor 43 blend, which will give the coffee an herbal and warm flavor while the Bailey’s adds an extra sweet and nutty kick. The possibilities are endless and it is up to you to decide which flavors will best complement your Bailey’s Irish Coffee.
