Cheesecake lovers, rejoice! This Irish Cream Cheesecake combines the creamy richness of a classic dessert with the indulgent, velvety warmth of Irish cream liqueur. With a perfectly crumbly cookie crust and a smooth, tangy filling infused with that signature Irish cream flavor, this dessert is a showstopper. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or simply when you’re craving something luxurious, this cheesecake strikes the ideal balance between sweetness and sophistication. Not only does it taste heavenly, but its presentation is bound to impress any crowd.

So, whether you’re a cheesecake aficionado or someone looking to try their hand at baking, this recipe is for you. The best part? It’s easier to make than you’d think, and the combination of flavors is absolutely unforgettable.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Chocolate sandwich cookies (crushed)	2 cups
Unsalted butter (melted)	6 tbsp
Cream cheese (softened)	24 oz (3 bricks)
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Sour cream	1 cup
Eggs	3 large
Irish cream liqueur	½ cup
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Semi-sweet chocolate shavings (optional)	¼ cup
Whipped cream (for topping)	As desired

Substitution Notes:

For a non-alcoholic version, replace Irish cream with an equal amount of heavy cream and a teaspoon of coffee extract.
If you don’t have chocolate sandwich cookies, graham crackers or digestive biscuits with a teaspoon of cocoa powder can work as a crust alternative.

Equipment Needed

Springform pan (9-inch): Essential for easy removal of the cheesecake while keeping its shape.
Food processor: For crushing cookies into a fine crumb for the crust.
Electric mixer or hand whisk: Ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
Large mixing bowls: For combining ingredients without spillage.
Aluminum foil: To wrap the pan during the water bath, preventing leaks.
Baking dish: Used as the water bath to ensure even baking and prevent cracking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor, or place them in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool.

2. Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream, Irish cream liqueur, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to cracks in the cheesecake.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove air bubbles. Wrap the bottom of the pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.

4. Water Bath and Bake

Place the foil-wrapped pan in a larger baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water, ensuring it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour.

5. Chill and Serve

Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and allow it to cool completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. Before serving, garnish with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a truly elegant touch.

Tips and Variations

Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing introduces air into the batter, which can cause the cheesecake to crack during baking.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Experiment with Flavors: Swap Irish cream for hazelnut or coffee liqueur for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese, coconut cream instead of sour cream, and a plant-based Irish cream substitute.

Serving Suggestions

For a stunning presentation, pipe swirls of whipped cream around the edges and sprinkle chocolate shavings or cocoa powder on top. Pair slices with fresh berries for a pop of color and tartness. Serve alongside a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for added indulgence.

This cheesecake is perfect for any occasion, whether served as a dessert centerpiece at a party or a sweet ending to a family dinner.

Pairings

Cocktail: A chilled glass of Irish coffee or an espresso martini beautifully complements the creamy texture and Irish cream flavors of the cheesecake.
Non-Alcoholic Option: A hot mocha or iced coffee with a splash of vanilla syrup pairs excellently.
Wine: A sweet dessert wine like Moscato or a tawny port highlights the cheesecake’s richness without overpowering it.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Cheesecake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

To enjoy leftovers, let refrigerated cheesecake sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes to regain its creamy texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories	450
Fat	30g
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	7g
Allergen Warnings	Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

This Irish Cream Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that seamlessly blends the richness of a classic cheesecake with the distinct, velvety warmth of Irish cream. With its creamy filling, crumbly chocolate crust, and elegant garnishes, it’s a treat that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging in a personal dessert craving, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and sophistication.

Not only is this cheesecake irresistibly delicious, but it’s also surprisingly simple to make, even for those new to baking. Its versatility allows you to adapt the flavors to your liking, while its crowd-pleasing appeal guarantees it will be the centerpiece of any dessert table. We’d love to see your creations—share your variations or pictures of your Irish Cream Cheesecake and let us know how it turned out!