What is Baileys Irish Cream?
Baileys Irish Cream was created by the McCambridge brothers, distillers, and food manufacturers in the late 1800s and early 1900s (McCambridge’s Irish Cream). They concluded that a product could be made from whiskey’s essence, which would provide both flavor and smoothness without adding alcohol or water to the mix as many other liqueurs do. In 1908 they began selling their product in Ireland under McCambridge’s Irish Cream. However, one question has made rounds regarding Bailey’s storage over the years: Does baileys need to be refrigerated?
The correct way of storing Baileys has always been in question. For example, does Baileys need to be refrigerated or go in the pantry?
The answer is that Baileys doesn’t need to go in the fridge since a single bottle of bailey contains 17 percent alcohol. But, ensure to store it in a dark, cool place since sunlight can curdle the cream. Even if you choose to refrigerate the drink, it’s perfectly fine.
Does Baileys Need to Be Refrigerated Once Opened?
If you prefer, you can refrigerate Baileys after opening the bottle, but it’s not necessary. The choice is yours!
If you prefer drinking chilled alcohol, you can put your bottle in the fridge overnight or for some time before drinking.
It’s not a bad idea if you want to refrigerate Baileys. You can store it in the refrigerator before opening and after.
However, refrain from freezing a bottle of Baileys. When you freeze Baileys, you will ruin the taste of this delicious drink since freezing changes the consistency. For example, the creamy texture of the drink might convert into curdling. In addition, the thawing process that follows freezing will change both the texture and the flavor of this creamy drink.
So, in summary, refrigerating Baileys after it is opened is completely fine. Still, it is not necessary unless it’s the only place in your house where the drink will be stored at the right temperature. At room temperature, the drink will never go bad.
Why Do Baileys Curdled?
Sometimes, when you freeze the drink or store it at the wrong temperature, it might cause the drink to curdle. Also, the combination of cream, dairy contents, and alcohol can cause the drink to curdle easily. Here are two reasons your drink is curdling:
Did You Use Acids In Your Drink?
Suppose by any chance you’ve added an acidic ingredient such as orange juice or lemon while mixing your drink. In that case, it can easily curdle the Baileys.
The dairy products in Baileys can easily curdle when they contact citric acids. So while mixing your drink, remember not to let any acidic ingredients or those with low pH near your mixture.
Your Drink Has Expired.
Another reason for Baileys to curdle is that the drink has passed its expiry date. You can easily tell when that’s the case because your drink will look, smell and taste bad.
Before drinking, always ensure your drink is not expired or doesn’t smell bad. Ingesting curdled milk can result in a medical emergency. So, checking for any signs of decomposition before consumption is necessary.
Avoid storing your drink directly under the sunlight. A closed pantry or refrigerator is good for storing Baileys. This will keep the drink fresh for extended periods.
Homemade Bailey’s Recipe
Ingredients
- Whiskey – Many people use Jameson whiskey, but you can also choose your favorite brand.
- Heavy Cream – A cup of heavy cream or a half cup of whole milk will do fine. Avoid using only milk as it will make the drink watery.
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Vanilla Extract – You can also use peppermint, almond, or orange extract.
- Chocolate Syrup
- Coffee granules – for a kick of caffeine, sprinkle some coffee granules.
Method
- Mix all the ingredients and shake well. Store it in the fridge if you like your drink cool.
- You can also store it in the pantry for later use.
FAQs
Does Bailey’s Contain Lactose?
Yes. Baileys Irish Cream consists of dairy cream and other dairy ingredients. The cream is made of milk, so naturally, it contains lactose.
Baileys is not recommended for lactose-intolerant people. However, those with lactose intolerance can opt for the lactose-free alternative made from almond milk.
Is Baileys Good for Health?
Drinking Baileys once in a while is alright, especially since the drink is so refreshing. However, experts don’t recommend drinking daily. The drink contains a high amount of fat and sugar from dairy and other components.
When you drink Baileys daily, it will harm your body, and experience health issues. Therefore, devour this drink once in a while.
Can I Make Baileys at Home?
Making baileys at home is quite easy and simple if you have all the ingredients at home.
You only need whiskey, heavy whipping cream, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate sauce.
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I am a yogi with a smoldering passion for nutrition and healthy living. I have been a Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach for over 11 years and now I want to help you. My mission is to inspire as many people as I can to expand their awareness and broaden their horizons by giving a voice to the choices that create abundant, radiant health. Here I share deliciously simple plant-based recipes, nutrition resources, detox tips, and a glimpse into my whole lifestyle.