Irish cream liqueurs like Baileys are a popular after-dinner drink, often enjoyed over ice or in coffee. However, they do contain alcohol and can be high in sugar and calories. If you are looking for an alcohol-free or lower calorie substitute, there are several options to consider.
Non-Alcoholic Substitutes for Irish Cream
For a completely non-alcoholic substitute, try making your own Irish cream syrup. This can be added to coffee, hot chocolate, milkshakes or desserts. The main ingredients are heavy cream, condensed milk, cocoa powder, vanilla and sugar. Simply combine these ingredients to taste in a blender or mixer until smooth and creamy. Store leftover syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
There are also some store-bought non-alcoholic Irish creams available. Brands like Carolans Irish Cream Nonalcoholic and St. Brendan’s Irish Cream Nonalcoholic aim to mimic the flavor and creaminess of traditional Irish cream liqueurs without the alcohol content. Be sure to check the sugar and calorie content if weight management is a concern.
Low-Alcohol Irish Cream Substitutes
If you want the flavor of Irish cream with minimal alcohol, consider the following reduced alcohol and lighter options:
- Baileys Almande Almondmilk Liqueur – Contains almond milk and just 5% alcohol by volume
- Kerrygold Irish Cream Liqueur – Has a lower alcohol content of 12% compared to 17% in regular Baileys
- Baileys Light – Approximately 30% less calories than original Baileys Irish Cream
- Amarula Cream Liqueur – Made from the African marula fruit, with 17% alcohol by volume
Homemade Lower Calorie Irish Cream
For a lower calorie DIY Irish cream, try this simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon almond extract
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 2 shots vodka, whiskey or rum (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (can use electric mixer). Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine the condensed milk, cocoa powder, chocolate syrup, both extracts and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream until thoroughly combined.
- For an alcoholic Irish cream, stir in 2 shots of your preferred spirit such as vodka, whiskey or rum.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using to allow flavors to blend.
- Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
This lighter homemade version cuts down on calories by using half and half or heavy cream plus no added sugar. It omits the corn syrup or high fructose corn syrup found in many commercial Irish cream liqueurs. Feel free to adjust the cocoa powder and chocolate syrup to suit your preferred sweetness and chocolate flavor.
Other Substitutes to Consider
A few other potential substitutes for Irish cream liqueurs include:
- Eggnog – Add a dash of rum extract or brandy for flavor
- Coconut cream – For a dairy-free option with creamy coconut flavors
- Hazelnut or vanilla coffee creamer – Sweeter and lower alcohol than Irish cream
- Sweet Marsala wine – Adds sophistication in desserts or coffee drinks
How to Use Irish Cream Substitutes
Irish cream liqueurs are quite versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory recipes. Here are some of the most popular ways to use Irish cream substitutes:
- Add to coffee – Either hot or iced coffee
- Pour over ice cream or fresh fruit for dessert
- Use in milkshakes, smoothies or protein shakes
- Stir into oatmeal or chia seed pudding
- Mix into hot chocolate or steamers
- Blend into cake, cookie or brownie batter
- Brush over meat or fish before baking or grilling
- Stir into risottos, cream sauces and mashes potatoes
- Mix into pancake, waffle or French toast batter
Start with small amounts of your Irish cream substitute, taste and adjust as needed. Keep in mind alcohol-free swaps may need extra cocoa powder, chocolate syrup or sweetener to mimic the flavor intensity.
Nutrition Facts Comparison
When choosing an Irish cream substitute, compare the nutrition facts to make the healthiest choice for your needs. Here is how some popular commercial Irish cream liqueurs compare per 1.5 fluid ounce serving:
| Irish Cream Product | Calories | Fat (g) | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baileys Original Irish Cream | 121 | 5 | 0.5 | 11 | 10 |
| Baileys Almande Almondmilk Liqueur | 127 | 2.5 | 1 | 19 | 17 |
| Baileys Light Irish Cream | 96 | 4.5 | 0.5 | 8.5 | 8 |
| Kerrygold Irish Cream | 153 | 10 | 1 | 11 | 10 |
| Carolans Irish Cream Nonalcoholic | 190 | 10 | 1 | 24 | 23 |
As shown, alcohol-free Irish cream substitutes tend to be higher in calories, carbohydrates and sugar compared to the alcoholic versions. Baileys Light is the lowest calorie option.
Conclusion
Irish cream liqueurs add a touch of indulgence to hot and cold beverages, desserts, baked goods and more. Luckily, you don’t have to give them up completely if you are avoiding alcohol or extra calories. Homemade Irish cream syrup, lighter commercial versions or other alcohol-free substitutes can allow you to enjoy the distinctive flavor in a healthier way.
Experiment with different Irish cream swaps to find your favorite. Consider the nutrition comparison to choose products aligned with your health goals. Sip and savor Irish cream substitutes on their own or creatively incorporated into sweet and savory recipes.