These indulgent cookies combine the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookies with the rich, creamy taste of Baileys Irish Cream, resulting in a thick, chewy, and flavorful treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and chewy texture – A perfect blend of crisp edges and gooey centers.
Elevated flavor – Baileys adds a smooth, creamy depth to classic chocolate chip cookies.
Make-ahead friendly – Dough can chill up to 48 hours for convenience and deeper flavor.
Perfect for special occasions – Ideal for holidays, parties, or a cozy treat.
Customizable – Add nuts, white chocolate, or a Baileys glaze for extra indulgence.

Ingredients

2 and 3/4 cups (330g) all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup (213g) dark brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup (99g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 cup (57ml) Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur
2 large eggs, at room temperature
12 ounces (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and espresso powder (if using).
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add the vanilla extract and Baileys Irish Cream to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in Chocolate Chips: Using a rubber spatula, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 48 hours.
Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape and Bake: Roll 3 tablespoons of dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake one sheet at a time for 10 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly soft.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Inactive Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

White Chocolate: Substitute half the chocolate chips with white chocolate for a sweet contrast.
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
Baileys Glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from Baileys and powdered sugar.
Extra Espresso: Increase the espresso powder for a mocha twist.
Mini Cookies: Make smaller cookies and reduce bake time to 8 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls or baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I omit the Baileys?

Yes, but it’s the signature flavor. You can substitute with milk or cream for texture.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling enhances flavor and prevents spreading—highly recommended.

Can I use milk chocolate chips instead?

Yes! Use any variety of chocolate chips based on your preference.

Are these cookies safe for kids?

The alcohol in Baileys is minimal and bakes off, but use discretion.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, store in the fridge for up to 48 hours or freeze for longer storage.

Why use dark brown sugar?

It adds moisture and a richer flavor to the cookies.

Can I skip the espresso powder?

Yes, it’s optional but enhances the chocolate flavor.

What’s the best way to portion the dough?

Use a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop for even size and baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a stand mixer and bake in batches.

How do I keep cookies soft longer?

Store with a slice of bread in the container to retain moisture.

Conclusion

These Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are a decadent twist on a classic favorite. With rich flavor, gooey chocolate chips, and a touch of Irish cream, they’re perfect for special occasions or any time you crave a bakery-style cookie with an adult twist. Enjoy every bite!

Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

Author: Chef Clara
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Print Recipe

Description

These indulgent cookies blend classic chocolate chip flavor with rich, creamy Baileys Irish Cream for a thick, chewy, and flavorful treat!

Ingredients

Scale

2¾ cups (330g) all-purpose flour
¾ tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
1 tsp espresso powder (optional)
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup (213g) dark brown sugar, packed
½ cup (99g) granulated sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup (57ml) Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur
2 large eggs, room temperature
12 oz (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and espresso powder (if using).
Cream Butter & Sugars:
In another bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Add Wet Ingredients:
Beat in vanilla and Baileys. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Combine Mixtures:
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture on low speed until just combined—do not overmix.
Fold in Chocolate Chips:
Use a spatula to stir in chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Chill Dough:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 48 hours.
Preheat Oven:
When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape and Bake:
Roll about 3 tbsp of dough into balls. Place on sheets 2 inches apart. Bake one tray at a time for 10–11 minutes, until edges are set but centers are soft.

Cool:
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the dough enhances flavor and texture—don’t skip it!
Add a few extra chocolate chips on top of the dough balls for a bakery-style look.
Great for holidays, gifting, or boozy dessert tables!

Prep Time: 20 minutes, 2 hours (chill)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American