Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Pudding is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dessert that combines the smooth flavors of Baileys with deep, velvety chocolate. This homemade pudding is silky, decadent, and infused with a hint of Irish cream liqueur, making it the perfect treat for chocolate lovers and those who enjoy a touch of boozy sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra Creamy and Decadent: A luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Deep Chocolate Flavor: Made with real cocoa and chocolate for a rich taste.
- Infused with Baileys: Adds a smooth, boozy kick without being overpowering.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and no baking required.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Great for dinner parties, holidays, or date nights.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Whole milk
- Heavy cream
- Baileys Irish Cream
- Granulated sugar
- Cocoa powder
- Dark chocolate (chopped)
- Cornstarch
- Egg yolks
- Salt
- Vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
Step 2: Heat the Milk and Cream
- Add the Liquids:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
- Place over medium heat and stir constantly.
- Thicken the Mixture:
- Cook until the mixture begins to thicken (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
- Whisk the Egg Yolks:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks.
- Slowly Add Hot Mixture:
- Gradually pour a small amount of the hot pudding mixture into the yolks while whisking.
- Return the tempered yolks to the saucepan and cook for another 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Add Chocolate and Baileys
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped dark chocolate until melted.
- Add Baileys and Vanilla:
- Stir in the Baileys Irish Cream and vanilla extract.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Pour into Servings:
- Transfer the pudding into serving dishes.
- Chill:
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of Baileys before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Variations
- Extra Boozy: Increase the Baileys to ½ cup for a stronger flavor.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk and a dairy-free Irish cream alternative.
- White Chocolate Baileys Pudding: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate.
- Mocha Flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder.
- Nutty Twist: Stir in crushed hazelnuts or almonds.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.
- Reheating: Enjoy cold, or warm slightly over low heat if desired.
FAQs
Can I make this pudding without alcohol?
Yes! Replace the Baileys with an equal amount of milk or coffee creamer.
What type of chocolate works best?
Use high-quality dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa) for the richest flavor.
Can I use cornstarch substitutes?
Yes! Arrowroot powder or flour can be used as thickening agents.
How do I prevent lumps in my pudding?
Whisk continuously and strain the pudding through a sieve if needed.
Can I serve this warm instead of chilled?
Yes! It’s delicious warm, just like a rich chocolate custard.
What toppings go well with this pudding?
Whipped cream, chocolate shavings, caramel drizzle, or crushed cookies.
How can I make it thicker?
Use an extra teaspoon of cornstarch or cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Is this pudding gluten-free?
Yes! Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, making this pudding safe for gluten-free diets.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but it will be sweeter. Reduce the sugar slightly if using milk chocolate.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s best when chilled for several hours or overnight.
Conclusion
Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Pudding is the ultimate indulgent dessert, combining rich chocolate with smooth Irish cream for a decadent treat. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream or extra Baileys, this pudding is sure to impress. Try it for your next gathering or as a luxurious treat for yourself!
Print
Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Pudding
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 2-3 hours
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Irish-Inspired, Comfort Food
Description
This homemade Baileys-infused chocolate pudding is smooth, creamy, and packed with rich chocolate flavor. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy dessert or a special occasion treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup Baileys Irish Cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or finely chopped chocolate)
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream & chocolate shavings (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat the Base:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture starts to warm up (but not boil).
2. Temper the Egg Yolks:
- In a small bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks.
- Slowly add a few tablespoons of the warm milk mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
- Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan and whisk to combine.
3. Cook Until Thickened:
- Continue cooking over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add Chocolate & Baileys:
- Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips, Baileys Irish Cream, and vanilla extract.
- Whisk until smooth and fully melted.
5. Chill & Serve:
- Pour the pudding into serving cups or ramekins.
- Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
- Chill in the fridge for 2-3 hours until set.
6. Garnish & Enjoy:
- Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings before serving.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute Baileys with additional heavy cream + 1 tsp vanilla extract.
- If you prefer a thicker pudding, increase cornstarch to 3 tbsp.
- Want an extra boozy kick? Add 1 tbsp Irish whiskey along with the Baileys.