Growing up in Michigan, Bailey's Irish Cream was always a treat that came with the cold weather.
The indulgence almost seemed like a reward for the long winters. I loved this treat so much, I named my cat Bailey. And sweet Bailey turns 20 this summer!
Over the years though, I have grown more conscious about what I am putting in my body. And realized at some point that 2 servings of Bailey's Irish Cream was more than the recommended allowance of sugars for women... for the entire day, at least according to the American Heart Association.
Gasp! Ouch. So, I decided to create my own recipe for this delicious winter treat. And this past weekend, a good friend from naturopathic medical school and I made pies, drank this Irish Cream, and watched A Charlie Brown Christmas. Now... the holidays can begin.
Guys, I am sharing this in time for the holidays, but please. Please. Please. Please.... Don't over do it with this delicious drink. It is so tasty and delicious that it is easy to do. First, it is still made with coconut milk and maple syrup so there are a good number of calories in it. Plus, it has whiskey. A good amount of whiskey. Which means, probably best to limit how many you have at Thanksgiving dinner. Seriously.
My wise father calls liquors like whiskey "Loud Mouth". Because, it makes you have a loud mouth. Be careful with the "loud mouth" around your loved ones this holiday season. Things are going to be tense enough already.
Don't forget to bring the love this holiday season, folks.
Vegan Irish Cream (Like Bailey's)
Makes 6-8 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
1 can of coconut milk (full fat)
3T maple syrup (or to taste)
6T strong coffee, chilled
1c whiskey
1t vanilla
1T cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1c flavored tea, chilled
Tea ingredients should include: cinnamon, ginger, star anise, cardamom, licorice, etc.)
Instructions:
Add 1c boiling water to 2 teabags of your choice. The herbs/spices will add some extra flavor. The Celestial Seasonings Gingerbread spice is especially tasty. Would love to hear about any others that you try!
Combine remaining ingredients in blender and mix well.
Add tea and blend one more time.
Best served chilled.
