Baileys Irish Cream, arguably the most well-known cream liqueur, is typically enjoyed on the rocks, in coffee or in cocktails like the White Russian. Made with sweetened Irish cream, fine spirits, Irish whiskey and a proprietary blend of chocolate flavors, Baileys has a distinct taste. There are some lesser known alternatives to Baileys - although no substitute will taste exactly the same.
Other Irish Cream Liqueurs
All Irish creams are made with a blend of Irish whiskey and cream, but that's where the similarities end. Experts from The Beverage Tasting Institute describe Baileys as moderately sweet with roasted nut, maple sugar, spice and fig aromas. One alternative to Baileys is Molly's Irish Cream Liqueur, which has aromas of honey roasted nuts, vanilla nougat, toasted coconut, mocha and dried cherries. With hints of pecans, nougat, butterscotch and roasted hazelnuts, Feeney's Irish Cream Liqueur is another option. Or try McCormick's Irish Cream Liqueur, which has aromas of ground nuts, white chocolate fudge and creamy custard.
A Light Option
The Baileys alternative that contains the least amount of fat when compared to other Irish cream liqueurs is Carolans Light. According to Carolans' website, it has 39% less fat and is made with Irish cream, Irish whiskey, Irish spirits and honey. Technically Carolans Light can't be labeled as an Irish cream because its fat level is 8% rather than the required minimum amount of 12% fat.
Non-Alcoholic Substitute
In addition to mixing into coffee and cocktails, Baileys many uses include flavoring desserts -- either as a topping or a baking ingredient. In desserts, you might want the Baileys flavor but not the alcohol. Non-alcoholic Baileys Coffee Creamer, which is available in different flavors, is perfect for coffee, desserts and even virgin variations of some cocktails.
Other Cream Liqueurs
In the mood for liquor but not whiskey? Other cream liqueurs are made with different types of alcohol, and can be just as delicious when used in coffee, cocktails or as a dessert topping. Voyant Chai Cream has dark rum, vanilla and chai spices such as cardamom, cinnamon and cloves. Dooley's Toffee Cream is made with vodka combined with toffee and caramel flavors. Bols Advocaat contains brandy, eggs and sugar.