Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that adds a unique twist to the classic chocolate chip cookie, then these Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for you. Infused with the rich flavor of Baileys Irish Cream, these cookies offer a delightful balance of sweetness, warmth, and a subtle hint of coffee that makes them irresistibly delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or just a cozy treat at home, this recipe is easy to follow and yields cookies that are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into this wonderful recipe and see what makes these cookies so special!

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

These cookies are not just any chocolate chip cookies. With the addition of Baileys Irish Cream, they bring a rich, creamy flavor that complements the chocolate chips perfectly. The espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor, while a hint of cinnamon adds warmth and depth. The result is a soft, chewy cookie with a crispy edge that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate chip cookies or looking for something new, these cookies will surely impress.

Ingredients Breakdown

All-Purpose Flour and Baking Essentials

• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (315 grams): The foundation of the cookies, providing structure and a chewy texture.
• 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and gives them a soft, chewy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons espresso powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor without making the cookies taste like coffee.

The Secret Ingredient: Baileys Irish Cream

• 3 Tablespoons Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur: Adds a unique creamy flavor and subtle hint of Irish cream, making these cookies truly special.

Perfect Chocolate Chips for the Recipe

• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (340 grams): Provide a rich, chocolatey flavor that balances the sweetness of the cookie dough.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and espresso powder until well combined. Set this mixture aside; these ingredients form the base that gives your cookies their structure and flavor.

Creaming the Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, use a handheld electric mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to beat 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature), 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed), and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2 minutes on medium speed. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to ensure all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Incorporating Baileys and Eggs

Add 1 and 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons of Baileys Irish Cream to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully combined, creating a smooth, creamy base. Next, add 2 large eggs (at room temperature) one at a time, beating for about 15 seconds after each addition until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.

Folding in the Chocolate Chips

Turn off the mixer and switch to a wooden spoon or sturdy rubber spatula. Gradually fold in the dry ingredient mixture, stirring just until the flour begins to disappear. Be careful not to over-mix. Finally, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Chilling the Dough: Why It’s Important

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (and up to 3 days). Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld together and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. If you bake the cookies immediately, they will be thinner but still delicious.

Baking the Cookies to Perfection

When you are ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.

Roll 3-tablespoon-sized scoops of dough between your palms to form balls (they should be almost 1/4 cup each). Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave enough space between them for spreading.

Bake the cookies, one sheet at a time, in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling is crucial to prevent excessive spreading and to achieve a thick, chewy texture.
2. Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined.
3. Overbaking: For soft, chewy cookies, bake until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. They will continue to cook as they cool.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk or your favorite non-alcoholic beverage. For a festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate. Arrange them on a decorative platter for parties or gift them in a beautiful tin.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Nut-Free: Substitute the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I skip the espresso powder?
A: Yes, but it enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cookies taste like coffee.

Q: What if I don’t have Baileys Irish Cream?
A: You can use another coffee liqueur or simply increase the vanilla extract, though it will alter the flavor slightly.

Conclusion

These Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for any occasion. Their unique flavor and soft, chewy texture make them a hit with everyone who tries them. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.

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