The End of Baileys Almande and the Rise of Oat Milk Liqueurs
Baileys Almande, the almond milk-based liqueur that served as a popular vegan option, was discontinued in autumn 2021 by parent company Diageo. This left many seeking dairy-free alternatives. However, Baileys re-entered the plant-based market in early 2025 with the launch of new oat milk-based non-dairy liqueurs in the USA.
Meet the New Oat Milk Vegan Baileys
Baileys introduced two permanent oat milk-based non-dairy flavors in the US: Coffee Toffee and Cookies & Creamy. These are designed to provide a creamy, indulgent experience similar to the original, suitable for coffee, cocktails, or enjoying on their own. While primarily a US offering, Diageo is exploring global expansion.
Oat milk's advantages
- Oat milk provides a naturally creamy texture, ideal for a cream liqueur.
- Unlike Almande, which underwent reformulation to be vegan, the oat milk versions were developed as vegan from the start.
- Oat milk is free from common allergens like nuts and soy.
Alternatives to Baileys' Vegan Liqueur
For those unable to access the new US oat milk Baileys or seeking different flavors, several vegan cream liqueur alternatives are available:
- Almondaire Almond-Based Crème Liqueur: A noted alternative to Almande, featuring almond and vanilla flavors.
- Licor 43 Horchata: An almond milk-based liqueur with citrus, spice, and vanilla notes, inspired by Horchata.
- Marks & Spencer Plant Kitchen Chocolate & Coconut Liqueur: A seasonal UK option with coconut milk, chocolate, and whiskey.
- Homemade Vegan Baileys: A customizable DIY option using ingredients like oat, coconut, or cashew milk with whiskey, cacao, and vanilla.
The Oat Milk Baileys vs. Alternatives
| Feature | New Oat Milk Baileys (USA) | Almondaire (Alternative) | DIY Vegan Liqueur | Marks & Spencer (Alternative) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | USA only (for now) | Limited, primarily online | Everywhere (DIY) | UK (seasonal/limited) |
| Base | Oat Milk | Almond Milk | Cashew, Oat, or Coconut milk | Coconut Milk |
| Flavors | Coffee Toffee, Cookies & Creamy | Almond & Vanilla | Customizable | Chocolate & Coconut |
| Cost | Approx. $25 for 750ml | Varies by retailer | Varies, can be cost-effective | Varies by retailer |
| Texture | Creamy, smooth | Full-bodied, light, creamy | Can vary, user-controlled | Rich, pronounced coconut |
| Key Benefit | Officially from Baileys, consistent quality | Readily available, similar to Almande | Highly customizable, fresh ingredients | Seasonal flavor variety, festive |
Homemade Vegan Baileys Recipe
Creating your own vegan cream liqueur allows for ingredient control and a fresh taste. A typical recipe involves combining cooled coffee, sugar, cocoa, vanilla, and salt. A non-dairy milk base like coconut or cashew milk is then added, followed by Irish whiskey. The mixture is then chilled to allow flavors to meld. You can find a detailed recipe and ingredient list in the referenced web document.
Conclusion: The Vegan Baileys Legacy Continues
While Baileys Almande is gone, Baileys has responded to the demand for dairy-free options with new oat milk-based liqueurs in the USA. A variety of alternative vegan cream liqueurs also exist for those outside the US or seeking different flavors. Whether choosing a store-bought option or making your own, a vegan cream liqueur remains accessible. The availability of these options ensures that dairy-free consumers can still enjoy a celebratory drink.
Visit the Baileys US website for the latest vegan liqueur information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they still make vegan Baileys? Yes, but not the original almond-based one. Baileys Almande was discontinued in 2021, but Baileys launched new oat milk-based vegan liqueurs in the US in early 2025.
What happened to Baileys Almande? Baileys Almande, the almond milk-based liqueur, was discontinued by Baileys' parent company, Diageo, in autumn 2021.
What are the new vegan Baileys flavors? As of early 2025, Baileys offers two oat milk-based vegan flavors in the USA: Coffee Toffee and Cookies & Creamy.
Are the new oat milk Baileys available in the UK or other countries? Currently, the new oat milk vegan Baileys is only available in the USA. A Diageo spokesperson has indicated that they hope to expand to other markets, but there are no confirmed plans yet.
What are some good alternatives to Baileys Almande? Alternatives include Almondaire Almond-Based Crème Liqueur, Licor 43 Horchata, and Marks & Spencer's Plant Kitchen Chocolate & Coconut Liqueur, depending on location and availability.
Can I make a vegan Baileys at home? Yes, you can make a delicious homemade vegan Irish cream liqueur using a variety of ingredients like oat cream or coconut milk mixed with Irish whiskey, sugar, cocoa, and vanilla.
Is the original Baileys Irish Cream vegan? No, the original Baileys Irish Cream contains dairy and is not suitable for a vegan diet.
How does the oat milk Baileys differ from the Almande? The primary difference is the base ingredient; the new version uses oat milk, while the discontinued Almande used almond milk. The flavor profiles also differ, with the new flavors being Coffee Toffee and Cookies & Creamy, instead of the subtle almond and vanilla of Almande.
Where can I buy the new oat milk Baileys? The new oat milk Baileys flavors are available across the USA wherever spirits-based beverages are sold. Check with your local liquor stores or online retailers.
Will Baileys Almande ever return? There is no indication that Baileys plans to bring back the Almande formula, especially with the successful launch of their new oat milk-based products.
