Is it okay to drink Bailey's Irish cream? What you need to know

November 30, 2025 •

3 min read

At 17% alcohol by volume (ABV), Baileys Irish Cream is less potent than many spirits but still an alcoholic beverage. Beyond its delicious taste, is it okay to drink Bailey's Irish cream, and what should you know about its ingredients, health impacts, and shelf life before enjoying it? This article addresses those questions.

Quick Summary

Answering questions about Baileys Irish cream by clarifying alcohol content, dairy presence, and calorie count. It covers responsible consumption, storage requirements, shelf life, and addresses specific health concerns related to its ingredients.

Key Points

Alcohol Content: Baileys Original is 17% ABV, less potent than many spirits but still an alcoholic beverage that can lead to intoxication.
Dairy & Allergens: Baileys Original contains dairy cream and is not vegan; dairy-free options like Almande are available for those with dietary restrictions.
Shelf Life: An unopened or properly stored opened bottle of Baileys Original is guaranteed for 2 years from bottling, with a 'best before' date on the label.
Storage: Store Baileys in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight; refrigeration is optional but can help maintain quality, especially after opening.
Health Considerations: Due to its high sugar and calorie content, moderation is key for health-conscious individuals.
Pregnancy: No amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy; Baileys should be avoided completely by expectant mothers.
Spoilage: Signs of Baileys going bad include curdling, unusual smells, and a strange taste; if detected, the product should be discarded.

What is in Baileys Irish cream?

Baileys Original Irish Cream is a blend of fine Irish whiskey, fresh Irish dairy cream, and a proprietary mix of rich chocolate and vanilla flavors. It has a smooth, creamy texture and a sweet taste that makes it a popular ingredient in desserts and cocktails. While the Original is made with dairy, the brand has introduced alternatives for different dietary needs, such as Baileys Almande, a dairy-free and vegan-friendly option made with almond milk. It is important to check the specific product's label if you have dietary restrictions.

Alcohol content and intoxication

For many, the pleasant taste of Baileys can mask its alcohol content. However, it is an alcoholic beverage and can cause intoxication. The standard Baileys Original Irish Cream has an Alcohol by Volume (ABV) of 17%. While this is lower than most vodkas or whiskies, consuming it in large quantities can lead to getting drunk. It is crucial to monitor your intake and practice responsible drinking, as promoted by the manufacturer.

Health considerations: Calories, sugar, and dairy

As a sweet, creamy liqueur, Baileys contains a significant number of calories and a high sugar content. A 50ml serving contains approximately 157 calories, comparable to a large chocolate biscuit. The calories come from both the alcohol (around seven calories per gram) and the high sugar content. Those watching their calorie intake should enjoy it in moderation. The company also offers a lighter version with fewer calories and less sugar.

Lactose and dairy intolerance

For those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, the regular Baileys Original is not suitable as it contains real dairy cream and milk proteins. The introduction of Baileys Almande, made with almond milk, provides a vegan-friendly and dairy-free alternative. Always confirm the specific product variant if you have such sensitivities.

Proper storage and shelf life

One common question is how to store Baileys and how long it lasts. The manufacturer guarantees Baileys Original for two years from the day of bottling, whether opened or unopened, as long as it is stored correctly. The ideal storage temperature is between 0°C and 25°C (32°F and 77°F), away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is not required but can be a convenient way to serve it chilled.

Signs of spoilage Even with its alcohol-as-preservative content, Baileys can eventually spoil or its quality can decline, especially if exposed to temperature extremes or air for too long. Signs that Baileys has gone bad include:

Curdling or separation: The creamy texture turns chunky or cottage cheese-like.
Unpleasant smell: Any foul or sour odor indicates it's past its prime.
Noticeable taste change: An off-taste can indicate deterioration.
Thickened consistency: If the liquid has solidified, it should not be consumed.

Pregnancy and alcohol consumption

It is crucial to understand that no amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy. Drinking alcohol while pregnant can lead to a range of developmental problems known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). The safest option for pregnant women is to abstain completely from alcohol, including Baileys. This also applies to women who are trying to conceive or are breastfeeding.

Comparison of Baileys variants


Feature	Baileys Original Irish Cream	Baileys Almande	Baileys Deliciously Light
ABV	17%	13%	16.1%
Main Ingredients	Irish whiskey, Irish dairy cream	Almond milk, almond oil	Irish whiskey, less cream, less sugar
Dairy-Free	No	Yes	No, contains dairy
Vegan	No	Yes	No
Calories (per 100ml)	~314 kcal	Data varies, but lower than Original	~188 kcal

Conclusion

Is it okay to drink Baileys Irish cream? Yes, for most adults when consumed in moderation. However, drinkers should be aware of the health aspects, including its alcohol, sugar, and dairy content. For those with dietary restrictions or health concerns, alternatives like the dairy-free Baileys Almande exist. Responsible drinking, proper storage, and awareness of potential spoilage are key to enjoying this popular liqueur safely. For more information on responsible consumption, visit the official Drinkaware website.

What to mix with Baileys

Baileys is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways.

Classic Coffee: Add a splash to your coffee for a warm, creamy treat.
Cocktails: Use it as a key ingredient in drinks like an Espresso Martini or a White Russian.
Hot Chocolate: Mix it into hot chocolate for an indulgent, grown-up version.
Desserts: Drizzle it over ice cream or use it in baking recipes for a rich, flavorful twist.
Over Ice: Simply serve it neat or on the rocks for a smooth, classic sip.
Milkshakes: Blend it with ice cream for a decadent, boozy milkshake.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Baileys does not need to be refrigerated, but it is often stored in the fridge because many people prefer to drink it chilled. The alcohol acts as a preservative, allowing it to be stored in a cool, dark place.

Yes, you can get drunk on Baileys. While its 17% ABV is lower than hard liquors, it is still an alcoholic beverage, and consuming enough of it will cause intoxication.

Baileys Original is guaranteed by the manufacturer to be good for up to two years from bottling, even after opening. However, for the best taste, it is often recommended to consume it within 6-12 months.

Baileys Original contains dairy cream and is not suitable for those who are lactose intolerant. A dairy-free, vegan alternative called Baileys Almande is available.

No, it is not okay to drink Baileys during pregnancy. Health authorities state there is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy, and consumption can harm fetal development.

Look for signs of spoilage such as curdling, separation of the liquid, or a strange, unpleasant smell. If any of these are present, it is best to discard the bottle.

A standard 50ml serving of Baileys Original contains approximately 157 calories. It is considered a high-calorie and high-sugar alcoholic beverage.