Homemade Sugar-Free Bailey’s Irish Cream

This homemade sugar-free Bailey’s recipe is perfect for adding a creamy kick to your coffee or desserts! Net Carbs: 1g

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If you’ve ever wished Bailey’s came in a sugar-free option that didn’t taste “diet,” this homemade version is exactly that. It delivers everything people love about classic Irish cream: silky texture, warm whiskey notes, gentle chocolate flavor and a hint of espresso. Instead of thick sugar syrup, this recipe uses low-carb sweetener and real cream so you get the same indulgent feel with just about one net carb per serving

Irish cream is usually something you buy only on holidays or special dessert nights, but this lighter, keto-friendly version can be enjoyed any time. A spoonful in morning coffee turns it into an Irish café latte. Mixed with ice it becomes a weekend treat. Folded into mousse or cheesecake batter, it adds depth without overwhelming them with alcohol.

What makes this blend so satisfying is that it tastes like a crafted coffeehouse drink rather than a sugary liqueur. The cocoa brings rich aroma, the espresso adds bitterness that balances the sweetener, and the whiskey rounds everything out with warmth.

Why Make It Sugar-Free Instead of Buying Bailey’s?

Traditional Bailey’s contains sugar syrup, stabilizers, chocolate extract and artificial flavoring. This homemade version uses real ingredients: cream, unsweetened cocoa, espresso, real vanilla and actual whiskey. It feels cleaner on the palate because you taste the chocolate and coffee rather than heavy sweetness.

Plus, the versatility changes completely:
It works as a coffee creamer
It mixes easily into whipped cream or pastry cream
It adds moisture and richness to keto desserts
It has no graininess because allulose dissolves smoothly You don’t need to wait for St. Patrick’s Day. This is a year-round keto treat.

Ingredients

You only need a handful of ingredients for this homemade Irish cream recipe and you probably have most of them already!

Heavy Cream – Use heavy whipping cream for that rich, velvety texture and full-bodied flavor.

Irish Whiskey – Any whiskey works, but Jameson gives the most authentic Irish touch.

Sweetener – Choose a powdered keto sweetener like Swerve Confectioners, Allulose, or BochaSweet for the smoothest texture.

Cocoa Powder – Unsweetened cocoa adds the signature hint of chocolate to the mix.

Instant Espresso – Use espresso powder for bold coffee flavor. Instant coffee or a small amount of strong brewed espresso also works.

Flavor Extracts – A dash of almond and vanilla extract enhances the overall taste beautifully.

(Find all exact measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.)

Quick Tips

• Warm the Cream: Heating helps the cocoa and espresso dissolve smoothly.
• Simmer to Reduce: Let the mixture boil gently, then simmer 10–15 minutes to thicken and blend flavors.

Instructions

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a saucepan, mix the sweetener, cocoa powder, and espresso together.

2. Add the Cream:
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until fully blended.

3. Heat and Simmer:
Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.

4. Add Flavoring:
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in the vanilla, almond extract, and whiskey.

Storage

Once cooled, pour your sugar-free Bailey’s into a glass bottle or jar with a lid and store it in the refrigerator.

It stays fresh for up to 2 weeks. If you won’t use that much, make a half batch instead. Because it’s made with real cream, it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Use it as a keto coffee creamer for a touch of Irish indulgence in your morning cup!

Serving Suggestions

This keto Bailey’s is rich, creamy, and versatile. If it’s too strong for sipping alone, dilute it with almond milk or use it to create indulgent low-carb desserts.

Try adding it to:

• Cheesecake or trifles for a boozy twist
• Cakes and brownies for extra flavor
• Homemade ice cream to keep it creamy and scoopable longer

I personally love using it in after-dinner coffee or as a flavor base for low-carb cocktails like a keto mojito or skinny margarita.

FAQs

What is Irish Cream?
It’s a liqueur made from cream and whiskey, typically sweet and creamy with notes of chocolate or coffee.

What’s in Bailey’s?
Bailey’s Irish Cream is made from Irish whiskey, cream, and chocolate flavoring.

What’s the difference between Irish Cream and Bailey’s?
Bailey’s is a brand of Irish cream essentially the most famous version.

How long does homemade Irish Cream last?
It keeps well in the fridge for about two weeks.

Can I substitute it?
Yes! You can make a quick Irish cream substitute with heavy cream, whiskey, chocolate syrup, and coffee extract.