This vegan Baileys is richer and creamier than the store-bought version — you won’t notice the difference. Ready in 5 minutes with just 5 ingredients.
I rarely drink alcohol, but when I do I reach for Baileys. This dairy-free, plant-based version is one of my favorites: smooth, indulgent, and quick to make. It’s a great treat for Saint Patrick’s Day or any cozy evening.
Because it’s made without cow’s milk, this recipe is lactose-free and entirely vegan. I find it even tastier than the original, and it’s simple enough that you’ll want to make it at home rather than buying a bottle.
This recipe is gluten-free, requires only five ingredients, and takes about five minutes from start to finish. It also stores well in the fridge, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredient notes
- Whiskey: Jameson works well, but any whiskey you like will do.
- Vanilla extract: homemade or store-bought both work. I use homemade vanilla for flavor and value.
- Full-fat coconut milk: canned full-fat coconut milk gives the creamiest result. You can substitute homemade cashew or almond milk, but the texture will be different.
- Agave or maple syrup: use the sweetener you prefer. Cane sugar or other liquid sweeteners can be substituted to taste.
Dietary variations
- Sugar-free option: if you prefer no refined sweetener, try blending in soft dates until you reach your desired sweetness.
How to make vegan Baileys
- Add all ingredients to a blender and blend for 1–2 minutes until smooth.
- Serve chilled or over ice. Shake or stir before using. It’s also excellent added to coffee or vegan hot chocolate for a dessert-style drink.
How to store
- Fridge: store in a sealed container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week. Shake well before serving.
Is Baileys vegan?
The original Baileys Irish Cream contains dairy cream and is not vegan. This homemade version replaces dairy with plant-based milk so it’s suitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.
Serving suggestions
Pour this vegan Baileys over ice, add a splash to coffee or vegan hot chocolate, or use it in dessert recipes that call for Irish cream. Stir and enjoy.
Looking for more vegan drinks?
- Lemon Ginger Tea
- Turmeric Latte
- Matcha Latte
- Golden Milk
- Fruit-Infused Water
Did you make this vegan Baileys recipe?
Please leave a comment and rate the recipe — feedback is always welcome.
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Vegan Baileys
5
5
2 cups (500 ml)
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup Jameson Irish Whiskey, any whiskey is okay
- ¼ cup strong coffee or espresso
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
- 1 14-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
- ¼ cup agave or maple syrup
Instructions
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Add all ingredients to a blender and blend for 1–2 minutes, until smooth.
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Serve chilled or over ice. Shake or stir before serving. Add to coffee or vegan hot chocolate for a dessert-style drink.
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Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
- For a different texture, use homemade cashew or almond milk, though canned full-fat coconut milk gives the creamiest result.
- Swap the sweetener to your preference — maple, agave, or other liquid sweeteners work well.
Nutrition
| Calories: 236kcal
| Carbohydrates: 14.9g
| Protein: 1.6g
| Fat: 16.3g
| Saturated Fat: 14.5g
| Sodium: 10.4mg
| Fiber: 0.8g
| Sugar: 11.9g
Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out!
Update Notes: This post was originally published in March 2014 and updated with new photos, step-by-step instructions, and tips in February 2022.