Baileys Brownies Recipe

Irresistible Baileys Brownies Recipe for Sweet Indulgence

Chocolate and liqueur create pure magic in these decadent Baileys brownies that melt effortlessly on your tongue.

Rich, fudgy, and intensely indulgent, these brownies carry a delightful Irish cream twist.

The deep cocoa base perfectly complements the smooth Baileys flavor nestled within each dense bite.

Soft edges with a gooey center make these brownies irresistibly tempting.

Dessert enthusiasts will fall in love with this simple yet sophisticated treat.

Each slice promises a luxurious experience that transforms an ordinary brownie into an extraordinary dessert.

Prepare to elevate your baking game with this crowd-pleasing recipe that guarantees smiles around the table.

Baileys Brownie Storage Solutions

  • – Refrigerate Baileys Brownies in an airtight container for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. The cool temperature helps preserve the buttercream and ganache layers.
  • – Freeze brownies for extended storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They'll keep well for 2-3 months, maintaining their rich flavor and texture.
  • – Thaw frozen brownies in the refrigerator overnight to prevent condensation from making the dessert soggy. Remove from the container and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best taste and texture.
  • – Store brownies away from strong-smelling foods to prevent absorbing other flavors. Keep them in a single layer to maintain the ganache and buttercream's pristine appearance.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of liqueur in this recipe?

You can experiment with other cream liqueurs like Kahlúa or Amaretto, but the flavor profile will change from the original Baileys Irish Cream.

  • Do I need any special baking equipment for this recipe?

A standard 8×8 square baking pan, parchment paper, electric mixer, and offset spatula are recommended but not absolutely essential.

  • Is this recipe suitable for children?

No, this dessert contains alcohol in the buttercream and ganache layers, making it appropriate only for adults 21 and older.

  • How long will these brownies stay fresh?

These Baileys brownies will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Why Baileys Brownies Deserve a Spot on Dessert

  • Boost Flavor Dramatically: Swap water with Baileys Irish Cream in the brownie mix, creating a rich, indulgent dessert that elevates a classic treat with deep, complex liqueur notes.
  • Perfect for Adult Celebrations: These brownies are ideal for grown-up gatherings, offering a sophisticated twist on traditional brownies that transforms a simple dessert into an impressive party centerpiece.
  • Quick and Foolproof Preparation: Using a boxed brownie mix and simple additional ingredients makes this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels, ensuring consistently delicious results with minimal technical expertise.
  • Decadent Layered Experience: Multiple components like buttercream and ganache create a luxurious dessert with contrasting textures and rich Baileys-infused flavors that make each bite incredibly satisfying.

Must-Have Ingredients for Baileys Brownies

Base Ingredients:
  • Brownie Mix: A pre-packaged mix that forms the foundation of the dessert.
  • Baileys Irish Cream: A creamy liqueur that adds rich flavor to both the brownie and frosting layers.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Butter, Powdered Sugar, Vanilla Extract: Classic buttercream components that create a smooth, sweet frosting base.
  • Whipping Cream: Helps achieve a fluffy and light buttercream texture.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream, Chocolate Chips: Essential components for creating a rich and glossy ganache layer.

Easy Steps for Baking Baileys Brownies

Step 1: Bake Brownie Base

Preheat the oven according to the brownie box instructions.

Line an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix the brownie packet with package-specified ingredients, replacing water with Baileys Irish Cream for an extra flavor kick.

Bake the brownies as directed and let them cool completely.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Baileys Frosting

In a mixing bowl, cream together:
  • Softened butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Powdered sugar

Beat the mixture until smooth.

Gradually add Baileys and whipping cream, mixing on low speed until the frosting becomes light and fluffy.

Step 3: Layer on the Buttercream

Spread the Baileys buttercream evenly over the cooled brownies using an offset spatula.

Pop the pan in the freezer to help the frosting set quickly.

Step 4: Create Decadent Chocolate Ganache

In a heatproof bowl, combine:
  • Heavy cream
  • Baileys

Microwave until the mixture starts to simmer.

Pour the hot cream over chocolate chips and let sit for a few minutes.

Stir until the ganache becomes silky and smooth.

Step 5: Finish and Slice

Pour the ganache over the chilled frosted brownies.

Allow the ganache to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Once set, lift the brownies out using the parchment paper flaps.

Slice into perfect squares and serve immediately.

Tips for Gooey Baileys Brownies Every Time

  • Replace water with Baileys in the brownie mix for a richer, more intense Irish cream taste throughout the dessert.
  • Beat ingredients slowly and add Baileys gradually to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, silky frosting texture.
  • Refrigerate brownies before slicing to help ganache and buttercream set, resulting in cleaner, more precise square servings.
  • Let chocolate sit after adding hot cream to allow proper melting, creating a glossy and perfectly smooth chocolate topping.
  • Use parchment paper for easy removal and to keep brownie base crisp and prevent moisture absorption from frosting.

Brownie Variations with a Baileys Spin

  • Gluten-Free Baileys Brownies: Replace regular brownie mix with a gluten-free brownie mix, ensuring all ingredients are gluten-free certified for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
  • Non-Alcoholic Chocolate Cream Brownies: Swap Baileys with coffee or chocolate milk for a kid-friendly version that maintains rich flavor without alcohol.
  • Vegan Chocolate Indulgence: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, coconut cream instead of whipping cream, and a vegan brownie mix to create an inclusive dessert for dairy-free guests.
  • Low-Sugar Baileys Brownies: Substitute powdered sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and use sugar-free chocolate chips to reduce overall sugar content while keeping the decadent taste.

Fun Ways to Serve Baileys Brownies

  • Cozy Cocktail Party Centerpiece: Slice these decadent Baileys brownies into small, elegant squares perfect for sharing during an intimate gathering with friends.
  • Dessert Wine Pairing Magic: Complement the rich chocolate and Baileys flavors by serving alongside a glass of port wine or a creamy dessert wine for a luxurious tasting experience.
  • Holiday Gifting Delight: Package individual brownie squares in clear cellophane bags with a festive ribbon, creating a homemade treat that feels personal and indulgent for seasonal gifting.
  • Après-Ski Sweet Treat: Serve these warm brownies after a chilly day of winter activities, providing a comforting dessert that combines the warmth of chocolate with the smoothness of Baileys.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Baileys Brownies Recipe

Baileys Brownies Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Rich Baileys Brownies bring Irish cream magic to classic chocolate indulgence. Luxurious chocolate layers blend silky liqueur notes with deep cocoa intensity, offering you a sophisticated dessert that celebrates pure deliciousness.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 box brownie mix
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Dairy and Cream Ingredients:

  • 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
  • 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons Baileys Irish Cream
  • 2 tablespoons Baileys Irish Cream

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Eggs (as specified on brownie mix box)
  • Oil (as specified on brownie mix box)
  • Water (as specified on brownie mix box)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven according to brownie box instructions. Line an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal.
  1. Prepare brownie batter following package directions, substituting water with Baileys Irish Cream for enhanced flavor profile. Mix ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
  1. Transfer brownie mixture into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake at specified temperature on box instructions until a toothpick inserted comes out with minimal crumbs.
  1. Allow brownies to cool completely at room temperature, approximately 30-45 minutes. This prevents buttercream from melting when applied.
  1. Create buttercream by whipping butter until light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and Baileys, mixing at low speed until smooth and creamy.
  1. Spread buttercream in a uniform layer across cooled brownies using an offset spatula. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to help frosting set.
  1. Prepare ganache by heating heavy cream and Baileys in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm for 45-60 seconds until mixture is steaming but not boiling.
  1. Pour hot cream over chocolate chips. Let stand for 3-4 minutes without stirring, then whisk until ganache becomes glossy and completely smooth.
  1. Remove chilled brownies from refrigerator. Carefully pour ganache over buttercream, tilting pan to ensure even coverage. Allow ganache to set at room temperature for 45-60 minutes.
  1. Once set, lift brownies from pan using parchment paper edges. Slice into precise squares and serve at room temperature for optimal texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Swap out water for Baileys in the brownie mix to infuse rich, boozy flavor into every bite.
  • Chill buttercream and ganache layers briefly to create clean, crisp layers that hold their shape perfectly.
  • Opt for high-quality chocolate chips to ensure a glossy, smooth ganache with deep, luxurious chocolate notes.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, replace Baileys with strong coffee or vanilla extract to maintain moisture and depth of flavor.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Irish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star