Baileys Irish Cream Cheesecake

This rich and creamy cheesecake brings together the velvety warmth of Baileys Irish Cream with tangy cream cheese on a buttery graham cracker crust The result is an irresistibly indulgent dessert that is always a showstopper at celebrations

The first time I made this was for my best friend's birthday and everyone kept sneaking back to the fridge for just one more slice It has become the cake I am always asked to bring to special gatherings

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a sweet slightly toasty base Choose fresh crumbs for best flavor or pulse whole crackers in a food processor for extra crunch
• Melted butter: Helps bind the crust and adds rich flavor Go with real unsalted butter for a melt in your mouth texture
• Cream cheese: Full fat bricks give the smoothest results Let it come to room temperature for easy blending
• Granulated sugar: Balances the tang of cream cheese Use superfine sugar if you want no grit in the mix
• Eggs: Hold everything together and give a creamy set Large fresh eggs work best for smooth batter
• Baileys Irish Cream: Infuses an unmistakable velvety note This is where the magic happens
• Vanilla extract: Boosts the creamy dessert nuance Pure extract delivers the best results
• Heavy whipping cream: Adds fluffiness to the topping and a luxurious mouthfeel Grab cold cream for best whipping
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the billowy top Choose one without additives for a clean finish

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F and be sure your springform pan is greased or lined to prevent sticking Mix two cups of graham cracker crumbs with half a cup of melted butter in a bowl Using your hands or the bottom of a glass press this crumb mixture evenly into the base of your nine inch springform pan Aim for a compact even layer that goes all the way to the edges

Make the Filling:

In a large mixing bowl beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar on medium low speed Keep mixing until creamy and there are no lumps This step is essential for a smooth and velvety texture Add eggs one at a time letting each egg fully incorporate before adding the next Do not rush the process

Add Baileys and Vanilla:

Once the eggs are blended pour in Baileys Irish Cream and vanilla extract Continue blending until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform The Baileys should be fully mixed in to avoid any streaks in the finished cheesecake

Bake:

Pour this creamy mixture over your prepared crust Use a spatula to smooth the top Place the pan in the oven on the middle rack Bake for forty five to fifty minutes The cake should look set around the edges but still have a slight wobble in the center Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit inside with the door cracked open for thirty minutes to prevent cracking

Chill:

After baking let the cheesecake cool to room temperature Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours but overnight is even better This helps set the structure and intensify the flavors

Whip the Topping:

Just before serving pour heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar into a cold mixing bowl Using a hand mixer or stand mixer whisk together on medium high speed until stiff peaks form The whipped cream should be able to hold its shape when you lift the beaters

Finish and Serve:

Gently release the chilled cheesecake from the pan and place on a serving plate Spread the fresh whipped cream over the top in an even layer Garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder if you wish Slice with a warm clean knife for neat pieces and enjoy every luscious bite

One Christmas we had family flying in from all over and this cheesecake was the only dessert every last piece vanished before dinner was even over Now it is a holiday must at our table

Storage Tips

Cover the cheesecake tightly and store in the fridge for up to five days The crust stays crisp and the filling does not dry out For longer storage wrap individual slices and freeze for up to two months Thaw them slowly in the fridge Keep extra whipped cream in a separate container to dollop onto thawed pieces

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the graham crust for chocolate cookie crumbs if you want a more decadent base Use vanilla bean paste if you love a stronger vanilla note For a non alcoholic version replace Baileys with strong brewed coffee or Irish cream flavored coffee creamer

Serving Suggestions

This cheesecake shines with a dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of grated chocolate Fresh raspberries add a tart bright pop that pairs nicely with the creamy filling If making for St Patricks Day try topping with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a few green sprinkles

Cultural Notes

Baileys Irish Cream is a beloved ingredient in Ireland and this cheesecake brings a festive Irish twist to classic American baking It bridges cultures and always gets rave reviews at parties Cheesecakes baked with liqueur have a legacy of being served at special occasions throughout Europe and North America

Seasonal Adaptations

Bake in the fall for cozy gatherings with spiced chocolate added to the crust For warmer months top with summer berries for freshness During winter holidays finish with crushed peppermint candies for a festive finish Easy to make ahead for family gatherings and potlucks Stays creamy and luscious even after freezing and thawing A great choice for both experienced and beginner bakers

Freezer Meal Conversion

Once cooled and fully set cut the cheesecake into slices Place wax paper between slices and store in an airtight freezer safe container For best results thaw slowly overnight in the refrigerator

This Baileys cheesecake is sure to become a favorite on your dessert table Make it ahead and enjoy every indulgent bite with friends and family

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different liqueur instead of Baileys?

Yes, you may substitute Baileys with another Irish cream or similar cream-based liqueur. Adjust sweetness if needed.

→ How do I know when the cheesecake is fully baked?

The center should jiggle slightly when gently shaken. It will set fully during refrigeration.

→ Can this dessert be made ahead of time?

Absolutely—chill for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight, before adding whipped cream and serving.

→ What are the best garnishes for this cheesecake?

Try chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, coffee beans, or simply extra whipped cream for a classic look.

→ Can I freeze leftover cheesecake?

Yes, wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.