Sweet, creamy, and just the right amount of boozy—the Irish Kiss is one of those cocktails that feels like a warm hug in a glass. It’s smooth, rich, and a little playful, with Irish whiskey and cream liqueur doing a lovely dance with honey and cream. I’ve made this drink countless times—it’s my go-to when I want something that feels a little indulgent without being too fussy. Let me walk you through how to make one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails.
Irish Kiss
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Rocks glass or martini glass
Make-ahead: You can mix the base ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add cream when serving.
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) Irish whiskey
– 1 oz (30 ml) Irish cream liqueur (like Baileys)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) honey syrup (see tip below)
– A splash of heavy cream
– Ice cubes
Optional garnish: Grated nutmeg, cocoa powder, or a drizzle of honey
Tips Before You Start
– Honey syrup: Mix equal parts honey and hot water. Stir until smooth. It blends much better than straight honey.
– No Irish cream? Use a coffee liqueur or a mix of cream and vanilla extract as a quick fix.
– Dairy-free? Swap the cream with coconut milk or any plant-based creamer.
– Watch your pour: To get that pretty cream float, use the back of a spoon and pour slowly.
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the Irish whiskey, Irish cream liqueur, and honey syrup.
- Shake well until everything is chilled and combined—about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon so it floats gently on top.
It smells sweet and slightly nutty, and the first sip is silky smooth with just the right whiskey warmth. The cream on top gives it a dessert-like finish. It’s cozy and comforting—perfect for sipping slowly.
Storage
– You can mix the whiskey, cream liqueur, and honey syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– Only add the cream when you’re ready to serve, or it may separate.
Serving Suggestions
This drink really shines after dinner. I love pairing it with:
– A dark chocolate tart or chocolate truffles
– A cheese board with creamy brie or nutty aged gouda
– Spiced nuts (try honey-roasted pecans or cinnamon almonds)
Variations
Here’s where you can have some fun with it. These are a few riffs I’ve tried over the years:
Minty Irish Kiss
– Muddle a few fresh mint leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. It adds a refreshing lift.
Chocolate Irish Kiss
– Add 0.5 oz (15 ml) chocolate liqueur. You can also drizzle chocolate syrup inside the glass for extra flair.
Spiced Irish Kiss
– Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix, or dust it over the cream layer. It gives it that warm, holiday vibe.
Virgin Irish Kiss
– Mix 0.5 oz (15 ml) honey syrup, a splash of cream, and a few drops of vanilla extract. Shake with ice and strain. Sweet, creamy, and kid-friendly.
Helpful Tips
– Use good-quality honey. It makes a difference in flavor.
– Don’t over-shake. You want it chilled, not watered down.
– Let the cream rest a minute. Once poured, give it a second to float and settle—it looks beautiful and adds a lovely mouthfeel.
– Want it lighter? Use less cream or a lower-fat version.
Common Questions
Can I make a batch for a party?
Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients by how many servings you need. Mix everything except the cream, keep it chilled, and pour the cream on each glass just before serving.
Is there a best time to enjoy this cocktail?
It’s ideal as a dessert drink or late-night sipper. That said, I’ve served it during brunch with coffee cake and it was a hit.
Can I use bourbon instead of Irish whiskey?
Yes! Bourbon adds a bit of sweetness and a smoky edge. It’s a fun twist.
Why float the cream instead of mixing it in?
Floating the cream creates a layered look and a richer texture. As you sip, the cream gently blends in.
What’s the best whiskey to use?
Mid-range Irish whiskey works great—smooth, not too peaty. Jameson is always a safe bet.
This cocktail has become one of my favorite ways to unwind after a long day. It’s simple, satisfying, and just a little indulgent—kind of like a dessert and a nightcap all in one. If you try it, let me know what you think, or how you make it your own. Sláinte!
