Irish Cream Iced Coffee (Hot or Cold St. Patrick’s Drink)
Irish Cream Iced Coffee is a drink that truly embraces the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day. This delightful beverage combines the rich flavors of chilled coffee and the smoothness of Irish cream, making it a standout choice for any occasion, whether you’re waking up to it on a bright morning or enjoying it during a festive gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick preparation time, you’ll find yourself captivated by its creamy texture and coffee kick. It’s an exciting alternative to ordinary iced coffee, and surprisingly easy to whip up.
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When I first discovered this recipe during a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, I couldn’t believe something so delicious could be created at home rather than at a cafe. Each sip is a harmonious blend of coffee’s robust flavor and the lusciousness of Irish cream and Guinness. The whipped cream on top gives it an indulgent finish, making it feel like a treat beyond your average drink. I wholeheartedly invite you to try this Irish Cream Iced Coffee (Hot or Cold St. Patrick’s Drink) and see how it elevates your coffee routine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: You can whip it up in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of coffee and Irish cream creates a rich, silky texture with a chocolatey undertone.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: With its vibrant colors topped with whipped cream, it’s as stunning as it is delicious.
- Flexible Serving: Ideal for brunch, afternoon pick-me-ups, or festive celebrations—this drink works any time!
- Diet-Friendly Options: You can go for a non-alcoholic version, using flavored syrups or omit the Guinness altogether.

Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 ounces chilled coffee or espresso: Freshly brewed coffee works best, but premade cold brew or espresso adds a great kick. Make sure it’s chilled to create that refreshing drink!
- 2.5 ounces Guinness Draught (substitute Irish whiskey if you prefer): This stout lends a unique flavor that you won’t find in ordinary coffee; its malty notes beautifully complement the cream.
- 0.5 ounce simple syrup: Homemade or store-bought, this sweetener balances the bitterness of coffee and stout. You can adjust the sweetness to taste.
- 2 ounces Bailey’s Irish cream liqueur: The star of this drink—the creamy texture and sweet chocolate flavor create a delightful indulgence.
- Whipped cream (optional): For those who enjoy a little extra decadence, a dollop on top elevates this drink to dessert status.
- Cocoa powder or cinnamon to garnish: Sprinkle some over your whipped cream for a beautiful finish that adds a touch of flavor!
How to Make Irish Cream Iced Coffee (Hot or Cold St. Patrick’s Drink)
Combine Ingredients: Start by pouring 4 ounces of chilled coffee or espresso into a tall glass filled with ice. Then, slowly add 2.5 ounces of Guinness Draught; if you choose to go with Irish whiskey instead, just adjust the measurements accordingly. To sweeten things up, stir in 0.5 ounce of simple syrup until fully dissolved.
Layer the Irish Cream: The next step is to carefully pour in 2 ounces of Bailey’s Irish cream liqueur. This creates a beautiful marbling effect that looks tempting; it’s okay if it mingles with the other ingredients slightly!
Garnish and Serve: If you’re feeling indulgent, top your drink with a generous dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon makes for an elegant final touch. Serve immediately with a straw or a spoon so you can mix everything together as you sip.

Storing & Reheating
For the best experience, it’s ideal to prepare this Irish Cream Iced Coffee fresh. If you have leftover components, store the chilled coffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The ingredients don’t freeze well together, but you can freeze brewed coffee in ice cube trays for future iced coffee adventures. Reheat any leftover coffee gently in the microwave for about 30 seconds, though the texture may change slightly after refrigeration.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid Overheating: If you’re reheating any part of the drink, do it gently to maintain that lovely coffee flavor.
- Chill Your Ingredients: For an even more refreshing drink, store your coffee, whiskey, and Irish cream in the fridge prior to preparation.
- Experiment with Garnishes: Don’t shy away from trying other toppings like chocolate shavings or a splash of almond milk for flavor variations.
- Control Sweetness: Adjust the amount of simple syrup based on your taste preferences. Not a fan of sweetness? A little less syrup can work wonders.
Creating your own Irish Cream Iced Coffee at home is not just about mixing drinks; it’s about enjoying a deliciously crafted beverage that can bring joy to any moment. The rich flavors make it a festive favorite, whether you’re in the mood for something energizing or a little luxurious.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this recipe without alcohol?
Absolutely! You can replace the Guinness with a non-alcoholic stout or simply omit it entirely. The drink will still have a delightful coffee and cream flavor to enjoy.
What’s a good substitute for Bailey’s Irish cream?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, you can try a vegan Irish cream liqueur, or make your own by blending coconut milk with chocolate syrup and a splash of vanilla extract.
Can I use decaf coffee?
Yes, using decaf coffee works beautifully here! It allows you to enjoy the flavors without the caffeine kick, making it perfect for late-night sipping.
How can I make this drink hot?
If you prefer a warm version, simply heat your coffee and mix in the Bailey’s until warm, adding the Guinness last. Though not traditional, it can be a comforting twist for cooler days!
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📖 Recipe Card

Irish Cream Iced Coffee (Hot or Cold St. Patrick’s Drink)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Irish
Description
Enjoy a refreshing Irish Cream Iced Coffee, packed with bold flavors from chilled coffee, Guinness, and Bailey’s Irish Cream. This delightful drink is perfect for a quick treat or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 ounces chilled coffee or espresso
- 2.5 ounces guinness draught (substitute irish whiskey if you prefer)
- 0.5 ounce simple syrup
- 2 ounces bailey's irish cream liqueur
- whipped cream (optional)
- cocoa powder or cinnamon (to garnish)
Instructions
- In a glass filled with ice, combine chilled coffee, Guinness, and simple syrup.
- Carefully pour the Bailey's Irish cream over the top.
- If desired, top with whipped cream, and sprinkle with cocoa powder or cinnamon.
- Serve immediately with a straw to mix the ingredients.
Notes
Feel free to substitute Irish whiskey for the Guinness if you prefer.
Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of simple syrup to your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 drink
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
