No-Bake Baileys Irish Cream Cheesecake
This Baileys Cheesecake is the ultimate grown-up dessert. It’s silky, boozy, and incredibly decadent, featuring a crunchy chocolate base and a velvety cream cheese filling infused with the smooth flavor of Irish Cream. Because it’s a no-bake recipe, it’s the perfect stress-free showstopper for your next dinner party.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crust:
- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (Oreo crumbs work perfectly)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Baileys Filling:
- 24 oz (675g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 2/3 cup Baileys Irish Cream * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- 1 packet (approx. 7g) unflavored gelatin (optional, for a firmer set) dissolved in 2 tbsp boiling water
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream (for piping)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Chocolate shavings or pieces
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
2. Whip the Cream In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set this aside in the fridge.
3. Make the Cheesecake Base In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gradually pour in the Baileys and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fully incorporated. (If using gelatin, stir the dissolved mixture into the cream cheese base now).
4. Fold and Chill Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the air—this is what makes the cheesecake light and fluffy. Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top.
5. The Big Wait Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 6 hours, though overnight is best for the cleanest slices.
6. Decorate and Serve Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder. Pipe swirls of whipped cream around the edges and garnish with chocolate pieces or shavings as shown in the photo.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Slice
- Room Temp is Key: Ensure your cream cheese is completely soft before mixing to avoid lumps.
- The “Clean Cut”: To get professional-looking slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between every single cut.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: You can swap the Baileys for a non-alcoholic Irish Cream coffee creamer for a family-friendly version.
