The Discontinuation of Baileys Almande
The beloved Baileys Almande, a vegan-friendly, almond milk-based liqueur, disappeared from shelves in 2021. Its discontinuation left a void in the market for creamy, dairy-free spirits, disappointing many long-time fans and lactose-intolerant consumers alike. The almond-and-vanilla-flavored spirit had previously earned a loyal following for its versatility, working well in coffee, cocktails, and as a chilled sipper. For a period, some bottles of the product could still be found in some markets or as leftover stock, but production had ceased entirely.
The Almande Story
- Initial Launch: Baileys Almande was introduced to the US market in 2016 and the UK in 2018.
- Vegan Transition: The original formula wasn't initially vegan but was later reformulated to be fully vegan-friendly.
- Popularity: It quickly became a popular choice among vegans and dairy-free consumers seeking an indulgent alternative to the classic Baileys Irish Cream.
- Discontinuation: Production and distribution were ceased in 2021, leading to its gradual disappearance from retailers worldwide.
The New Vegan Baileys Liqueurs (USA)
In March 2025, Baileys officially returned to the dairy-free market with the launch of two new non-dairy liqueurs, this time made with an oat milk base. These products offer a fresh, plant-based twist on the classic cream liqueur experience and are available in two distinct flavours:
- Coffee Toffee: This liqueur features a decadent blend of rich coffee and caramel notes.
- Cookies & Creamy: A dessert-inspired option combining the flavours of chocolate cookie and vanilla cream.
Crucially, these new oat-based liqueurs have a few things in common with their predecessor: they are 17% ABV, contain no dairy, and provide a rich, creamy texture. You can learn more about the new product offerings on the official Baileys website.
Visit the official Baileys website for new oat milk liqueur products
Vegan Baileys Availability Around the World
While the introduction of the new oat milk liqueurs is fantastic news, their availability is currently limited. As of late 2025, the new Baileys non-dairy products are only available across the USA. For consumers in other countries, including the UK and Europe, the wait for a new official vegan Baileys continues. A Diageo spokesperson mentioned hoping to introduce the products in additional markets in the future but did not confirm specific dates. This means that outside of the US, the original query still holds true: the official vegan Baileys is not yet widely available.
Explore Alternatives for Vegan Baileys
If you are outside the USA or simply want to try something different, many other brands and homemade recipes offer excellent alternatives to vegan Baileys. The plant-based spirits market has grown significantly in recent years, providing plenty of options to explore.
Commercial Alternatives
- Licor 43 Horchata: Inspired by a classic Valencian recipe, this liqueur is made with almond milk and Mediterranean flavors, including vanilla, citrus, and spices. It is vegan-friendly and provides a nutty, creamy alternative.
- Amarula Vegan Liqueur: This plant-based option is made with coconut cream and features the distinctive marula fruit flavor.
- Almondaire Almond-Based Creme Liqueur: Considered one of the closest commercial alternatives to the discontinued Almande, it offers a similar almond and vanilla profile.
- Barti Cream Liqueur: A coconut-based liqueur with notes of vanilla, clove, cinnamon, and orange.
- Homemade Vegan Irish Cream: You can create your own version at home using a blend of Irish whiskey, instant coffee, vanilla, and your preferred plant-based milk or cream.
Comparison of Vegan Cream Liqueurs
| Feature | New Baileys Oat (USA Only) | Licor 43 Horchata | Homemade Vegan Irish Cream | Amarula Vegan Liqueur |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Oat Milk | Almond Milk | Plant-Based Milk/Cream (e.g., Oat, Coconut) | Coconut Cream |
| Flavor Profile | Coffee Toffee, Cookies & Creamy | Vanilla, Almond, Citrus, Spice | Customizable (Coffee, Vanilla, Chocolate) | Marula Fruit, Coconut |
| Availability | USA only (as of late 2025) | Available in various markets | Any location with ingredients | Available in various markets |
| Texture | Rich and creamy | Light and creamy | Highly customizable | Rich and creamy |
| Hot Drink Use | Caution advised; may separate | Stable in hot drinks | Test first; may curdle | Test first, especially with high heat |
Conclusion
While the original Baileys Almande is no longer available, the story of vegan Baileys has not ended. Baileys has innovated by introducing new oat-based non-dairy liqueurs, providing a fresh option for plant-based consumers in the USA. For those in other parts of the world, or for anyone wanting more variety, the market is rich with excellent alternatives, from commercial brands like Licor 43 and Amarula to the satisfaction of making a homemade concoction. Whether you're in the US or elsewhere, a delicious, creamy, and dairy-free treat is still well within reach.
Final Thoughts on Your Vegan Baileys Hunt
The landscape of vegan cream liqueurs is dynamic and expanding. While the discontinuation of Almande was disappointing, it paved the way for new options and innovations. The key is to stay informed about regional product releases and not be afraid to explore alternatives or get creative with a DIY recipe. Enjoy your creamy, dairy-free indulgence!
