This Irish Cream Cold Brew is like a fancy café drink, but way easier (and cheaper!) to make at home. It’s smooth, creamy, and has that little hint of Irish cream sweetness that makes it feel like a special treat.
Whether you’re looking for a fun pick-me-up in the afternoon or a chilled drink to serve friends, this one’s a total winner.
Let’s get brewing!
Why I Love This Recipe
I started making this drink at home after falling in love with the Starbucks version, but I wanted something a little richer, with more control over the sweetness and creaminess. This version hits every note.
- It’s so much cheaper than buying it every day
- The homemade creamer tastes way better and uses real ingredients
- You can make it in under 10 minutes
- It’s great for entertaining or treating yourself on a slow morning
Servings and Time
Servings: 2 drinks
Time: 10 minutes
What You’ll Need
For the Irish Cream Creamer:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp instant espresso powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
For the Cold Brew Drink:
- 1 1/2 cups cold brew coffee
- 1/2 cup ice cubes per glass
- 1/4 cup Irish cream creamer (or more to taste)
Pro Tips
- Whisk the creamer well so the cocoa and espresso powders dissolve smoothly
- Use good-quality cold brew – homemade or a brand you like
- Make the creamer ahead and keep it chilled for up to a week
- Use a milk frother to get that creamy, foamy top
- Taste and adjust the sweetness before adding to your drink
Tools Required
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small whisk or milk frother
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall glasses
- Spoon for stirring
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap maple syrup for honey or brown sugar
- Use dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and oat milk
- Add a splash of real Irish whiskey for an adult version
- Use decaf cold brew if you’re avoiding caffeine
Make Ahead Tips
- The Irish cream creamer can be made 5–7 days ahead and stored in the fridge in a sealed jar
- Cold brew can be prepped in batches and kept in the fridge for the week
Irish Cream Cold Brew Recipe & Instructions
Step 1: Make the Irish Cream Creamer
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1/2 tsp cocoa powder, 1 tsp instant espresso powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp almond extract until smooth and combined.
Step 2: Froth the Creamer
Use a handheld milk frother or whisk vigorously until the creamer becomes slightly fluffy and foamy on top, about 20–30 seconds.
Step 3: Fill Glasses with Ice and Cold Brew
In two tall glasses, add 1/2 cup of ice cubes each. Pour 3/4 cup cold brew coffee into each glass.
Step 4: Pour in the Irish Cream Creamer
Top each glass of cold brew with about 2 tablespoons (or more to taste) of the frothed Irish cream creamer. Let it cascade slowly into the coffee, creating those pretty swirls.
Step 5: Stir and Serve
Give each drink a gentle stir with a spoon, just enough to mix the cream slightly but still keep the pretty layers visible. Serve immediately.
Macros (per serving)
Approximate for 1 serving (using 2 tbsp creamer):
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 15g
- Sugar: 13g
- Caffeine: ~100mg (depends on your cold brew)
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Fat content in the cream gives that luscious mouthfeel and blends smoothly with cold liquids.
- Sweetened condensed milk adds body and sweetness without thinning it out.
- Instant espresso and cocoa add depth and mimic the notes in Irish cream liqueur.
- Frothing adds air which makes it feel luxurious and café-style.
Common Mistakes
- Not dissolving the powders fully – Whisk until smooth, or you’ll get gritty texture.
- Using weak cold brew – Too mild and you won’t taste the coffee under the cream.
- Over-frothing the creamer – It should be creamy, not stiff like whipped cream.
- Adding creamer too fast – Pour slowly for the best swirl and blend.
What to Serve With
- Warm banana bread or pumpkin muffins
- A breakfast sandwich or avocado toast
- A slice of coffee cake
- Or just sip it solo for a peaceful morning moment
FAQ
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream and a plant-based sweetened condensed milk.
Is there alcohol in this?
Nope. But you can totally add a splash of Irish whiskey if you want the boozy version.
Can I store the creamer?
Yes, keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 7 days. Shake before using.
Can I use store-bought Irish cream coffee creamer?
Sure! But the homemade one tastes way better and is super easy to make.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftover Irish cream creamer in a sealed mason jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Always shake or stir it before using – the ingredients can settle.
- Cold brew keeps in the fridge for 7–10 days, so make a batch and use as needed.
Wrap-Up
This Irish Cream Cold Brew is honestly a little cup of luxury you can whip up in minutes. It’s creamy, cold, and crazy satisfying. Make it your new morning ritual or afternoon pick-me-up, and don’t forget to leave a comment letting me know how yours turned out — or if you have questions!