Baileys Buttercream Brownies
Baileys Buttercream Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate squares with a lusciously creamy, boozy Baileys frosting for a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat. Imagine biting through shiny, chewy tops into a velvety layer that tastes like a warm hug each bite brings a swirl of comfort and celebration.
I first made these on a snowy afternoon with my mom, the kitchen filled with laughter and the sweet scent of brownies baking every square brings back that memory.
What makes this recipe shine is its simplicity: glossy batter, cloud-like buttercream, and fuss-free steps, all with the festive twist of Baileys. These brownies are pure feel-good baking so let’s jump in and make a batch you’ll want to share (or maybe keep just for you).
Why These Brownies Feel So Special
- Buttery Baileys frosting meets rich chocolate: Every bite is a swirl of creamy, boozy buttercream nestled atop a fudgy, deeply chocolatey brownie pure coziness.
- Cozy, nostalgic, celebration-in-a-pan treat: These brownies channel the warmth of family gatherings, birthday parties, and snow days snuggled under blankets.
- Perfect blend of creamy, fudgy, and festive: You get shiny tops, chewy middles, and a boozy, cloud-like icing for that magical holiday or girls’ night-in vibe.
- Comfort and celebration in every bite: This dessert doesn’t just satisfy a sweet tooth; it feels like a hug from someone who knows just what you need. If you love unique twists on classic bakes, you might also fall for our Pumpkin Brownies for another homey spin!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The key to that deep, irresistible chocolate flavor. It creates a rich, fudgy base that smells like a cozy bakery.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve those delightfully chewy edges that everyone grabs for.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter gives these brownies their melt-in-your-mouth texture and buttery aroma.
- Large Eggs: Eggs make the brownies chewy and give them that perfect, dense crumb—don’t skip!
- All-Purpose Flour: Pantry staple that adds structure. Easy to swap for a gluten-free blend if you need.
- Baileys Irish Cream: The star ingredient delivers creamy, dreamy flavor in both the brownies and the buttercream.
- Powdered Sugar: Essential for that fluffy, cloud-like frosting on top.
- Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors, making each bite comforting with a warm, bakery-style finish.
Looking for even more chocolate decadence? Check out these Fudgy Flourless Brownies for another cozy option!
How to Make Baileys Buttercream Brownies
- Prep the Pan & Oven: Line your favorite square baking pan with parchment, letting a bit hang over the edges for easy lifting later. Preheat the oven, and breathe in that promise of chocolate to come.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, gently whisk the cocoa, flour, and a pinch of salt. It’ll look dark and moody just right for deep, chocolatey flavor.
- Create the Fudgy Base: In another bowl, blend the melted butter with sugar; you’ll see the mixture turn glossy and rich. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until it’s silky. Slowly fold in the dry mix, savoring how thick and irresistible it becomes.
- Infuse with Baileys: Pour in the Baileys Irish Cream and stir until everything is just combined. The batter will be shiny and deeply fragrant.
- Bake: Scrape the batter into your pan and smooth the top. Bake until just set; you’re aiming for that coveted chewy-fudgy center.
- Whip the Baileys Buttercream: While brownies cool, beat softened butter until creamy, then add powdered sugar, a splash of Baileys, and vanilla. Keep mixing until dreamy and fluffy.
- Frost & Serve: Smother the cooled brownies with Baileys buttercream, swirling decoratively. Slice into squares and enjoy! For another cozy treat, check out these Mint Chocolate Brownies.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overbake for fudgy magic: Keep an eye out for those telltale moist crumbs on your tester removing the brownies while the center’s still just slightly gooey gives them an irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
- Blend Baileys perfectly: For the richest flavor, whisk Baileys into the batter until smooth and glossy, and give the buttercream a generous splash for a lush, grown-up frosting swirl.
- Chill before decorating: Let both brownies and buttercream cool completely before assembling cool brownies mean the buttercream stays cloud-like and doesn’t melt into the crumb.
- Cozy up the garnish: A dusting of cocoa, shaved chocolate, or festive sprinkles turns these into heartfelt gifts or a showstopper for gatherings small touches make them feel extra-special.
- Slice with confidence: For clean, bakery-worthy edges, use a hot, damp knife wipe between slices for those picture-perfect squares everyone swoons over.
Flavor Swaps
Chocolate lovers’ dream: Toss in chocolate chunks or chips to bring extra melty pockets into every bite. For nutty richness, swirl in toasted walnuts or pecans they add true bakery flair and a little crunch.
Espresso kick: Stir a spoonful of instant espresso powder into the batter for a mocha twist that deepens all that cocoa goodness. It’s a grownup upgrade, so cozy with the Baileys!
Baileys alternatives: Swap in any Irish cream liqueur, or go non-alcoholic with Irish cream–flavored coffee creamer for a family-friendly treat. Both deliver that signature creamy note.
Gluten-free and dairy-free options: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for tender brownies that nobody will guess are GF. For dairy-free, try vegan butter and a coconut- or oat-based cream liqueur.
Craving even more inspiration? Check out these Brown Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies for more irresistible ways to level up your baking!
Storage & Freezing Tips
- Fridge Freshness: Store your Baileys Buttercream Brownies in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them ultra-moist and fudgy for days. The chill preserves that creamy frosting and stops dryness in its tracks.
- Freezer Ready: Need to prep ahead? Pop the sliced brownies (layered with parchment) into a freezer-safe box. They freeze beautifully and thaw into dense, chocolatey perfection ideal for last-minute cravings or holiday trays.
- Gentle Reheating: To bring back that just-baked coziness, let brownies come to room temp or warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds. This softens the buttercream and brings back all the gooey charm.
- Avoid Frosting Splatters: If you plan to freeze, consider freezing the brownies unfrosted, then add the Baileys buttercream after thawing for the silkiest texture.
Perfect Pairings
- Afternoon Coffee Date: These Baileys Buttercream Brownies are dreamy with a mug of strong, freshly brewed coffee. The warmth of the coffee brings out the fudgy chocolate and creamy Irish cream notes just right for slowing down on a chilly weekend.
- Fun with Cocktails: Try serving alongside an extra splash of Baileys, a classic Irish coffee, or even a bubbly espresso martini at your next girls’ night. There’s something special about pairing boozy treats with a cozy drink!
- Berry Freshness: Add a bowl of juicy raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries to the table. Their tartness cuts the sweetness, making every bite feel bright and balanced.
- Holiday Treat Trays: Nestle these brownies among other favorites like Reese’s Peanut Butter Oreo Truffles for a show-stopping holiday platter perfect for gifting or a festive dessert buffet.
- Late Night Cozying: Pop on a movie, pour a glass of milk, and settle in for the ultimate comfort snack. Each bite is pure homey nostalgia.
Baileys Buttercream Brownies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, and a pinch of salt.
- Melt butter, then mix in granulated sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually fold in dry ingredients, then stir in Baileys until combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs attached.
- For frosting, beat softened butter until creamy, gradually adding powdered sugar and mixing in Baileys and vanilla extract until fluffy. Spread over cooled brownies and slice into squares.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Can I make Baileys Buttercream Brownies without alcohol?
Absolutely! If you want to skip the alcohol, swap in an Irish cream–flavored coffee creamer instead. You’ll still get that signature creamy flavor in both the brownies and the frosting. It’s perfect for making a family-friendly treat that captures all the cozy goodness.
What’s the best way to cut brownies with buttercream topping?
For clean slices, chill the brownies until the buttercream firms up, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe the blade between cuts for those picture-perfect squares. You’ll end up with silky, bakery-style edges and no smooshed frosting so satisfying to share (or savor yourself!).
Can I freeze Baileys Buttercream Brownies for later?
Yes, you can! Freeze sliced, unfrosted brownies between layers of parchment. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them and whip up a fresh batch of buttercream. This keeps both texture and flavor at their absolute best your future self will thank you during those unexpected cravings.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
You bet just use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. The brownies still bake up beautifully fudgy and moist, with no one guessing they’re gluten-free. It’s a wonderful way to make sure everyone at your table feels included and cared for.
