Elevate your cookie game with these Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies. The classic chocolate chip cookie gets a luxurious makeover with the addition of smooth, creamy Baileys, resulting in a treat that’s both familiar and indulgently unique. Perfect for gatherings, gifting, or simply treating yourself, these cookies offer a delightful balance of rich chocolate and subtle Irish cream flavors. Pair them with a glass of milk or your favorite coffee for an experience that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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3/4 cup packed brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract and Baileys Irish Cream until well combined.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender cookie texture.
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Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
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Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 36 cookies
The Ultimate Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cookies are an all-time favorite, but what happens when you take a classic chocolate chip cookie and give it a gourmet twist? You get Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies—a decadent treat infused with the rich, velvety flavor of Baileys Irish Cream. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with the perfect blend of chocolate and smooth Irish cream, making them a luxurious yet easy-to-make dessert.
The Story Behind Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baileys Irish Cream is a world-famous liqueur, originating from Ireland in 1974. It’s made with a delightful combination of fresh dairy cream, Irish whiskey, and cocoa, creating a smooth, slightly sweet, and creamy taste that complements desserts perfectly.
Infusing Baileys into a classic chocolate chip cookie elevates the flavor profile, adding a hint of indulgence and warmth. These cookies have become popular for holiday baking, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, and special occasions—but truthfully, they’re delicious any time of the year.
The secret to their magic lies in the balance: the deep cocoa notes from the chocolate chips meld with the smooth, slightly boozy creaminess of Baileys, creating a cookie that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Why These Cookies Stand Out from the Rest
While there are many chocolate chip cookie variations, Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are exceptional for several reasons:
1. Unmatched Flavor Combination
Traditional chocolate chip cookies are undeniably delicious, but adding Baileys brings a gourmet touch. The Irish cream enhances the chocolate with hints of vanilla, cocoa, and whiskey, creating a complex flavor profile that makes each bite irresistible.
2. Soft, Chewy, and Perfectly Textured
One of the best features of these cookies is their soft and chewy texture. Thanks to the extra moisture from Baileys and the right balance of butter and sugar, these cookies stay tender on the inside while achieving a slightly crisp edge.
3. A Grown-Up Twist on a Childhood Favorite
If you love chocolate chip cookies but are looking for something a little more refined, these cookies are perfect. They offer a sophisticated depth of flavor, making them a favorite for adults while still being sweet and familiar enough for younger cookie lovers (don’t worry—the alcohol content bakes out, leaving only the flavor behind).
4. Perfect for Special Occasions
These cookies are great for celebrations, parties, and gatherings. They make an excellent dessert for St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas cookie exchanges, or simply as a treat with a cozy cup of coffee.
5. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
Despite their gourmet taste, these cookies are made with pantry staples—flour, sugar, eggs, butter, chocolate chips, and, of course, Baileys. They don’t require fancy techniques or special equipment, making them approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
Baking Tips for the Best Baileys Chocolate Chip Cookies
To ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time, follow these expert baking tips:
1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients
For a smooth, even dough, ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps incorporate air and creates a tender texture.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough
Overmixing can lead to dense, tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the texture light and chewy.
3. Chill the Dough (Optional for Thicker Cookies)
If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. This prevents spreading and results in a more structured cookie.
4. Bake Until Just Set
For the best texture, bake until the edges are golden but the centers still look slightly underdone. They will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.
5. Enhance with Extra Chocolate
For an even more indulgent treat, try using a mix of milk, dark, and semi-sweet chocolate chips to add layers of flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a complementary beverage or dessert can take the experience to another level.
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With Coffee or Hot Chocolate: The creamy notes of Baileys pair beautifully with a warm drink.
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With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Make an indulgent ice cream sandwich with freshly baked cookies.
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With an Irish Coffee: For an extra Irish-inspired treat, enjoy these cookies with a classic Irish coffee made with Baileys and whiskey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the Alcohol in Baileys Bake Out?
Yes! Since these cookies are baked at 375°F (190°C), the alcohol evaporates during baking, leaving only the delicious Baileys flavor behind.
2. Can I Make These Cookies Without Alcohol?
Absolutely! If you want to keep them alcohol-free, you can use a Baileys coffee creamer or Irish cream-flavored syrup as a substitute.
3. How Do I Store These Cookies?
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
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To keep them fresh longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
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You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months and bake fresh cookies whenever you crave them!
Conclusion
Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are the ultimate way to upgrade your classic chocolate chip cookie recipe. Whether you’re a Baileys lover, a cookie connoisseur, or someone who enjoys a sweet treat with a sophisticated twist, these cookies are sure to impress. Their rich, indulgent flavor, soft and chewy texture, and ease of preparation make them the perfect dessert for any occasion. Plus, the combination of Baileys and chocolate is simply irresistible. So why not whip up a batch today? Bake these decadent, flavorful, and unforgettable cookies, and enjoy a taste of Ireland in every bite!