Introduction

Bailey’s Chocolate Parfaits are a decadent, layered dessert that combines rich chocolate, creamy whipped topping, and a hint of Irish cream. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to impress with an easy yet elegant dessert.

Three clear glass cups hold layered desserts placed on a white marbled surface. Each dessert has four visible layers: a bottom layer of light brown mousse, followed by a white creamy layer, then a dark crumbly layer of crushed cookies, and topped with a thick white whipped cream layer sprinkled with more dark cookie crumbs. One cup in the front sits on an old, decorative bronze tray and is garnished with a fresh green mint leaf on top. The two cups in the back are plain, without mint, and a soft green cloth is partially visible on the left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

25 Oreos, crushed
2/3 cup milk
6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
2 and 2/3 cups heavy cream (cold from the fridge)
1/3 cup + 5 tablespoons Irish cream liqueur, chilled (such as Bailey’s)
1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Make the chocolate mixture by placing the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the milk in a small pan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot milk over the chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes. Then stir until smooth and completely melted. If needed, microwave in 15-second intervals to melt any remaining chunks. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the whipped cream by combining the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons of Irish cream liqueur in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. To test, turn off the mixer and lift the beaters—peaks should hold their shape. Measure out 2 and 1/2 cups of the whipped cream into a separate bowl and gently fold in the chocolate mixture. Taste and add more Irish cream if desired (about 2 tablespoons more to the chocolate cream, 1 tablespoon more to the plain whipped cream).
Step 3: Assemble the parfaits by layering crushed Oreos, then the chocolate cream, followed by the Bailey’s whipped cream. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full.
Step 4: Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator. These parfaits keep well covered in the fridge for 1 to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh or within a day.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger Irish cream flavor, add a little extra liqueur to both the whipped cream and the chocolate mixture, but be careful not to make it too runny.
Swap Oreos for chocolate graham crackers or crushed biscotti for a different texture and flavor.
Use a hand whisk if an electric mixer isn’t available, but whipping will take longer and require more effort.
Top with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant finish.

Storage

Store the parfaits covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They can be made a day in advance, but it’s best to avoid storing them longer as the layers may soften and lose their texture. When ready to serve, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly, then enjoy chilled.

How to Serve

Three glass cups are shown with a layered dessert, each having four layers; the bottom layer is a light brown creamy base, followed by a thin dark crumb layer, then a thicker light cream layer, topped again with dark crumbs and a white whipped cream layer. The cup in front is placed on a rustic, oval metal tray with detailed carvings and is garnished with a green mint leaf on top. The background is a white marbled surface with scattered dark crumbs, and two silver spoons are visible in the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these parfaits without alcohol?

Yes, you can omit the Irish cream liqueur and substitute with an equal amount of milk or cream. The parfaits will still be delicious but without the distinctive Irish cream flavor.

What type of chocolate works best in this recipe?

Semi-sweet chocolate is ideal for a balanced rich taste that’s neither too bitter nor too sweet. However, you can use dark or milk chocolate according to your preference.