This Chocolate Bailey’s Milkshake is a cozy, grown-up twist on a classic treat.
It’s super creamy, full of rich chocolate flavor, and has just the right kick of Irish cream.
Perfect for a weekend night in, or when you want something sweet and a little bit boozy.
It’s also ridiculously easy to make—just toss everything into a blender and you’re golden.
What You’ll Need
- 3 scoops of chocolate ice cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup (plus more for topping)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe takes me back to a chilly winter night when my friends and I were watching movies, and someone said, “You know what this needs? Boozy milkshakes.” One quick trip to the freezer and a splash of Bailey’s later, we had magic in a glass.
- Super quick and only a few ingredients
- Tastes like dessert and a nightcap in one
- Perfect for cozy nights or impressing friends
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
What You’ll Need
- 3 scoops of chocolate ice cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup (plus more for topping)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Chocolate shavings (optional, for topping)
Servings and Time
Makes: 1 large milkshake or 2 small
Time: 5 minutes total
Macros Information (per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 7g
Carbs: 44g
Fat: 30g
Sugar: 38g
Alcohol: 12g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The fat in the ice cream and milk helps carry the flavor of the chocolate and Bailey’s evenly. Alcohol lowers the freezing point, which makes the shake creamier and smoother. Blending it just right traps air, giving that light, dreamy texture.
Common Mistakes
- Too much Bailey’s: It’ll overpower the chocolate and melt the shake fast. Stick to 1/4 cup.
- Over-blending: Makes it too runny. Blend just until smooth.
- Not using full-fat milk: Skim milk makes it too icy and thin.
- Skipping toppings: They add fun texture and flavor—don’t skip ’em!
What to Serve With
- Chocolate chip cookies
- A small plate of salted pretzels (salty + sweet = yes)
- A mini cheese board with dark chocolate pieces
FAQ
Can I make this without alcohol?
Yep! Just sub the Bailey’s for chocolate milk or Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer.
Can I use plant-based milk or ice cream?
Yes, full-fat oat or almond milk and dairy-free chocolate ice cream work well.
Can I make this ahead?
Not really—the texture is best right after blending.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use vanilla ice cream with extra chocolate syrup for a lighter chocolate flavor
- Add a shot of espresso for a mocha twist
- Swap Bailey’s for Kahlúa for a coffee version
- Blend in a frozen banana for a thicker, smoothie-like shake
Tools Required
- Blender
- Measuring cups
- Tall glass
- Spoon
- Grater (for chocolate shavings)
Make Ahead Tips
While you can’t blend this ahead of time (it’ll melt), you can pre-scoop the ice cream and freeze it in a cup, and have your milk and Bailey’s measured out in the fridge. That way, you just toss and blend.
How to Make Chocolate Bailey’s Milkshake
Step 1: Add Ice Cream to Blender
Add 3 scoops of chocolate ice cream to the blender. You want it nice and frozen—not melty.
Step 2: Pour in Milk
Pour in 1/2 cup of whole milk over the ice cream. It helps the shake blend easily.
Step 3: Add Bailey’s Irish Cream
Pour in 1/4 cup of Bailey’s Irish Cream. This gives it that smooth, spiked flavor.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Syrup
Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup. Rich and sweet!
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Blend everything on medium speed for about 30–45 seconds, just until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Pour and Top
Pour the shake into a tall glass. Top with whipped cream, extra chocolate syrup, and shaved chocolate.
Leftovers and Storage
This one’s best fresh—but if you need to hold it for 10–15 minutes, pop it in the freezer. Just give it a stir before drinking. Don’t store it for hours—it’ll separate and lose the creamy texture.
Wrap-Up
This Chocolate Bailey’s Milkshake is pure dessert heaven in a glass. It’s indulgent, creamy, and just boozy enough to feel special. I hope you try it, tweak it, and make it your own. If you do, leave a comment and let me know how it turned out—or what fun twist you added!
