Baileys Cheesecake Recipe
Ingredients
Cookie Crust
- 20 Java chip flavored crme chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreo)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Cooking spray
Cheesecake Filling
- 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup Irish cream liqueur (such as Baileys)
Baileys Ganache
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Irish cream liqueur (such as Baileys)
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
For Serving:
- Sweetened whipped cream
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C) with the rack positioned in the lower third. Lightly grease an 8-inch springform pan with cooking spray and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a food processor, grind the cookies into fine crumbs, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the melted butter and process for an additional 30 seconds until fully combined.
Step 3: Press the cookie mixture evenly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared pan.
Step 4: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until firm and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly, about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Reduce the oven temperature to 300F (150C). Once the crust has cooled, wrap the bottom of the pan with two layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping into the pan.
Step 6: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese on medium-low speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Add the sour cream and beat until fully combined, scraping the sides of the bowl halfway through, about 2 minutes.
Step 8: Mix in the sugar, espresso powder, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until fully combined, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 9: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until just combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl after each egg, about 1 to 2 minutes total.
Step 10: Add the Irish cream liqueur and beat on low speed until just incorporated, about 45 seconds.
Step 11: Pour the cheesecake filling onto the cooled cookie crust.
Step 12: Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan. Add 1 1/2 cups of hot water to the roasting pan and bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. The cheesecake should be almost set, with the center slightly jiggling and the edges pulling away from the pan.
Step 13: Turn off the oven and leave the door slightly ajar (about 7 to 8 inches). Let the cheesecake stand in the oven for 30 minutes to cool gradually.
Step 14: Carefully remove the cheesecake from the water bath and set it aside to cool completely. Once cool, cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight.
Step 15: For the ganache, combine the heavy cream and Irish cream liqueur in a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat until warm to the touch, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 16: Stir in the instant espresso powder until fully dissolved, then add the chocolate chips. Let the mixture stand for 1 minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 17: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan and place it on a cake plate. Pour the ganache evenly over the top, using an offset spatula to spread it slightly over the edges.
Step 18: Refrigerate the cheesecake for about 30 minutes, or until the ganache has set and firmed up.
Step 19: Serve with sweetened whipped cream and enjoy!
Tips
- Java chip Oreos will add a nice coffee flavor to the crust, but you can use regular Oreos if you prefer a more neutral base.
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash more Irish cream to the ganache.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 848
- Total Fat: 58g (74% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 32g (158% DV)
- Cholesterol: 212mg (71% DV)
- Sodium: 555mg (24% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 66g (24% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% DV)
- Total Sugars: 59g
- Protein: 11g (22% DV)
- Calcium: 145mg (11% DV)
- Iron: 3mg (14% DV)
- Potassium: 271mg (6% DV)
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Baileys Cheesecake
Baileys Cheesecake is a modern twist on the classic cheesecake, merging the creamy, rich texture of traditional cheesecake with the unmistakable flavor of Irish cream liqueur. This dessert emerged in the late 20th century, following the global popularity of Baileys Irish Cream, which was introduced in 1974. Bakers sought to incorporate this velvety liqueur into desserts, creating a decadent treat that combines the indulgence of cheesecake with the warm, slightly chocolatey, and whiskey-infused notes of Baileys. Its creation reflects both a desire for luxurious flavors and the trend of adult-oriented desserts that complement coffee or after-dinner drinks.
Regional Characteristics
While cheesecake itself has roots in ancient Greece and was popularized in America in the early 20th century, the Baileys variant is distinctly Irish-inspired. It is particularly popular in regions where Irish cream liqueur is widely enjoyed, such as Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In the U.S., regional adaptations often feature a cookie crust made from chocolate sandwich cookies, sometimes infused with espresso for a mocha twist. In Ireland, some versions include locally produced chocolate or whiskey variations to enhance the authentic taste.
Distinctive Features Compared to Similar Desserts
What sets Baileys Cheesecake apart from classic cheesecakes is its infusion of Irish cream liqueur into both the filling and ganache topping. Unlike traditional New York-style cheesecake, which is purely rich and creamy with a subtle vanilla flavor, Baileys Cheesecake delivers a layered flavor profilesweet, creamy, and boozy with hints of coffee or chocolate depending on the recipe. Its ganache topping also differentiates it from standard cheesecakes, providing a glossy, slightly firm layer that melts in the mouth alongside the smooth cheesecake base.
Typical Serving Occasions
Baileys Cheesecake is most often served as a celebratory dessert, particularly for holidays such as Christmas, St. Patricks Day, or special gatherings like weddings and dinner parties. It is commonly presented chilled on a cake plate, sometimes garnished with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of additional Irish cream. Because of its adult flavor profile, it pairs beautifully with coffee, espresso, or a small glass of Baileys, making it a perfect finale to festive meals.
Interesting Facts
- The addition of Baileys Irish Cream transforms the cheesecake into an adult dessert, yet the alcohol content largely bakes off, leaving a smooth, flavorful note without significant intoxication.
- Many recipes incorporate espresso or coffee flavors in the crust or filling, enhancing the natural chocolate and creaminess of the liqueur.
- Baileys Cheesecake has become a popular recipe for themed parties, especially those celebrating Irish heritage or events like the Kentucky Derby, due to its luxurious and indulgent appeal.
- Using different chocolate typesmilk, dark, or whitefor the ganache can subtly shift the flavor, making the dessert highly versatile.
- Despite being relatively modern, it has quickly become a classic in the realm of contemporary desserts, celebrated for both taste and presentation.
FAQ about Baileys Cheesecake Recipe
Comments
Donald Nelson
02/18/2023 10:58:20 PM
Indulgent and delightful! This dessert was a showstopper for our Easter celebration. Next time, I'll use a 9" pan instead of 8" to ensure a perfectly set center without needing to bake it for an extra 15 minutes. Can't wait to make it again!
William Evans
04/27/2025 04:32:11 AM
This recipe was a total disaster once it cooled down. Definitely the worst one I've tried from this website, and I've made more than 20 recipes from here.
Brian Rodriguez
05/09/2025 07:48:58 AM
I made this cheesecake for a Kentucky Derby party and it's still the talk of the town! Planning to make it again for dinner with family tomorrow. The first time I used regular Oreos since I couldn't find Java chip ones, and I added about 1/2-1/3 tsp of instant espresso to the crust crumbs for an extra burst of flavor. This time I managed to get my hands on some Java chip Oreos, so I'm thinking of covering the bottom of the crust with hot fudge before adding the topping. I'll be sure to update you all on how that turned out! This cheesecake is hands down the most delicious one I've ever made, and everyone who's tried it is clamoring for more!
Victoria Davis
10/29/2023 12:50:13 AM
I prepared this delicious (rich in flavor and calories) dish and it turned out fantastic. I opted for an 8" pan and extended the baking time by 15 minutes. Additionally, I went with dark chocolate for the ganache, which added an extra layer of decadence to the dessert.