Baileys Cookies and Cream Parfaits are a decadent treat featuring layers of thick chocolate cream, boozy Baileys whipped cream, and crumbled Oreo cookies. This indulgent dessert is rich, creamy, and perfect for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate, cookies, and Irish cream liqueur. Whether you’re serving them at a party or treating yourself, these parfaits are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 15 Oreo Chocolate Sandwich Cookies (crumbled)
- 4 ounces Semi-Sweet Chocolate (roughly chopped)
- ½ cup Milk
- 2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream (very chilled)
- ⅓ cup Baileys Irish Cream (very chilled)
- ¼ cup Powdered Sugar
Directions
- Prepare the Cookies: Crush the Oreo cookies into crumbles using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Set aside.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a small bowl, add the chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Heat the milk until steaming and pour it over the chocolate. Let sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until completely melted. If needed, microwave in 30-second intervals until smooth. Let cool to room temperature.
- Make the Whipped Cream: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the chilled heavy cream, Baileys Irish Cream, and powdered sugar on high speed until stiff peaks form (about 5-7 minutes).
- Prepare the Chocolate Cream: Divide the whipped cream mixture in half. Set one half aside. Slowly pour the melted chocolate mixture over the other half and gently fold together until fully combined.
- Assemble the Parfaits: Layer the parfaits in serving glasses. Start with a chocolate cream layer, then a Baileys whipped cream layer, then a layer of crumbled Oreos. Repeat the layers until the glass is filled, ending with cookie crumbles on top.
- Chill & Serve: The parfaits can be served immediately or chilled for 2-3 hours for a firmer texture. Enjoy!
Nutrients (Per Serving – 1 Parfait)
- Calories: 1197 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 85g
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 90g
- Saturated Fat: 52g
- Cholesterol: 224mg
- Sodium: 358mg
- Potassium: 516mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 56g
- Vitamin A: 2418 IU
- Calcium: 186mg
- Iron: 8mg
Enjoy this rich and boozy dessert! 🍫🍪
The Appeal of Baileys Cookies and Cream Parfaits
One of the reasons Baileys Cookies and Cream Parfaits are so popular is their versatility. They can be served as an elegant dessert for formal gatherings or as a casual treat to enjoy on a cozy evening. The combination of flavors is universally loved, and the presentation is stunning, making these parfaits a showstopper on any dessert table.
Another advantage of this dessert is that it can be made ahead of time. By preparing the layers in advance and chilling them in the refrigerator, you can have a ready-to-serve dessert without the last-minute hassle. This makes them perfect for dinner parties and holiday gatherings where you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
The Role of Baileys Irish Cream
Baileys Irish Cream is a key ingredient in this dessert, providing a smooth and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate and cookies. The liqueur is made from Irish whiskey, cream, and cocoa, giving it a velvety texture and a deep, slightly sweet taste. When incorporated into the whipped cream layer of the parfait, Baileys adds a hint of warmth and complexity that elevates the overall dessert.
For those who love Baileys, this parfait is a wonderful way to enjoy the liqueur in a dessert form. The balance between the alcohol and the sweetness of the whipped cream ensures that the flavors are well-rounded without being overpowering. However, if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, Baileys can be substituted with Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer or vanilla extract for a similar taste.
The Perfect Layers
One of the most exciting aspects of this dessert is the layering. The combination of chocolate cream, Baileys whipped cream, and crushed Oreo cookies creates a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture. Each spoonful delivers a burst of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness.
- Chocolate Cream: This layer is made by melting semi-sweet chocolate with warm milk and folding it into a portion of the whipped cream. The result is a luscious, silky chocolate mousse that forms the base of the parfait.
- Baileys Whipped Cream: The highlight of the parfait, this layer is made by whipping heavy cream with Baileys and powdered sugar until it reaches stiff peaks. This light and airy component balances the richness of the chocolate and adds a boozy twist.
- Oreo Cookie Crumbles: Crushed Oreo cookies add the perfect crunch to this dessert. Their chocolatey flavor and slightly salty contrast enhance the sweetness of the creams, making every bite more exciting.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
The presentation of Baileys Cookies and Cream Parfaits plays a significant role in their appeal. Served in clear glasses or dessert cups, the beautiful layers are showcased, making them look as good as they taste. To enhance the visual appeal, you can add a few extra touches:
- Garnish with Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top adds a sophisticated touch and extra chocolate flavor.
- Top with a Whole Oreo: Placing a whole Oreo cookie on top makes the dessert look even more inviting and provides an extra element of crunch.
- Drizzle with Chocolate Syrup: A light drizzle of chocolate syrup enhances the presentation and intensifies the chocolatey goodness.
- Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream: A final dollop of whipped cream on top gives the parfait an elegant finish.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
These parfaits are ideal for a wide range of occasions. Their luxurious taste and stunning appearance make them perfect for:
- Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with a dessert that looks sophisticated yet is incredibly easy to prepare.
- Holiday Celebrations: Serve these parfaits during Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or Valentine’s Day for a festive and indulgent treat.
- Romantic Date Nights: Treat your special someone to a homemade dessert that feels like a restaurant-quality experience.
- Casual Gatherings: Whether it’s a family get-together or a fun night with friends, these parfaits are sure to be a hit.
- Personal Indulgence: Sometimes, you just need to treat yourself! These parfaits are perfect for a cozy night in with a movie or a book.
Tips for the Best Parfaits
To ensure your Baileys Cookies and Cream Parfaits turn out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Chilled Ingredients: Cold heavy cream whips better and creates a more stable whipped cream.
- Melt Chocolate Properly: Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly before mixing it with the whipped cream to prevent curdling.
- Layer Carefully: Use a spoon or piping bag to create neat, even layers for a more professional presentation.
- Serve at the Right Temperature: While these parfaits can be enjoyed immediately, chilling them for a couple of hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the texture to firm up.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate.
Conclusion
Baileys Cookies and Cream Parfaits are the ultimate indulgent dessert, combining the beloved flavors of chocolate, cookies, and Irish cream liqueur into one delightful treat. Their rich, creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and touch of boozy warmth make them an unforgettable dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests, celebrating a holiday, or simply treating yourself, these parfaits offer a luxurious and satisfying experience.
Easy to make yet impressive to serve, Baileys Cookies and Cream Parfaits prove that a simple combination of high-quality ingredients can create a truly spectacular dessert. With their beautiful layers, delicious flavors, and perfect balance of textures, these parfaits are sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection. Try them today and indulge in a dessert that is as elegant as it is delicious!