Decadent Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfaits: An Irresistible No-Bake Irish Cream Dessert
Prepare for an extraordinary treat with these Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfaits. This recipe ingeniously blends the classic elegance of Italian tiramisu with the rich, creamy, and distinct flavor of Bailey’s Irish Cream. Layered with soft, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, a luxurious Irish cream-infused mascarpone filling, and a delicate dusting of chocolate, these individual parfaits offer a sophisticated and utterly indulgent dessert experience. Perfect for dinner parties, special occasions, or a delightful personal indulgence, they are remarkably easy to assemble and are best enjoyed after a good chill, allowing all the exquisite flavors to meld beautifully.
Why This Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfait Recipe is a Must-Try
These Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfaits are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavors and convenience. This recipe stands out for several compelling reasons, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced bakers:
- A Delightful Fusion of Flavors: It takes the beloved coffee and chocolate notes of traditional tiramisu and introduces the smooth, warming essence of Bailey’s Irish Cream. This creates a unique flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting, offering a luxurious twist on a classic.
- Effortlessly Elegant & No-Bake: Forget turning on the oven! This no-bake dessert simplifies the process without compromising on sophistication. The layered presentation in individual parfait glasses or mini trifle dishes makes it look incredibly impressive, yet it’s surprisingly easy to assemble. It’s an ideal choice when you want a show-stopping dessert without the stress.
- Perfectly Portioned Indulgence: Serving desserts can sometimes be tricky, but parfaits solve this problem beautifully. Each guest receives their own perfectly sized, decadent treat, eliminating the need for slicing and ensuring consistent portions. This also makes them ideal for make-ahead preparations, as they are easily stored and ready to serve.
- Rich, Creamy, and Light Texture: The filling, made with mascarpone cheese and whipped cream, is incredibly light and airy, yet wonderfully rich. It perfectly complements the delicate ladyfingers and the robust espresso, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes in every spoonful.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving a special treat for yourself, these parfaits fit the bill. Their individual nature and make-ahead potential make them incredibly versatile.
Consider these parfaits as a miniature, personal trifle, offering all the delightful layers of a larger dessert in a convenient, single-serving format. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines the best of Italian dessert tradition with a beloved Irish cream liqueur.
Essential Ingredients for Your Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfaits
To create these delightful parfaits, you’ll need a selection of high-quality ingredients. For precise measurements, detailed instructions, and a printable version of this recipe, please refer to the dedicated recipe card at the end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Understanding each ingredient’s role and potential alternatives can elevate your dessert experience. Here’s a closer look:
LADYFINGERS – These delicate, sponge-like cookies form the foundational layers of your parfait. There are generally two types:
- Soft, Spongy Ladyfingers: These are more common in grocery store bakery sections and are what I recommend for this recipe. Their softer texture readily absorbs the espresso mixture without becoming overly soggy when cut into cubes and lightly drizzled.
- Traditional Italian (Hard/Crunchy) Ladyfingers: Found in specialty markets, these require a different approach. If using them, a quick dip (literally in and out) in the espresso is crucial to prevent them from disintegrating, as they soften much more dramatically.
If ladyfingers are unavailable, you can substitute with slices of pound cake, sponge cake, or even shortbread cookies, though the texture and absorption will differ. Cut them into similar-sized cubes for layering.
FILLING – The heart of these parfaits is a magnificent, airy blend that delivers both richness and a subtle kick. It combines:
- Bailey’s Irish Cream: This liqueur is the star, imparting its signature creamy, whiskey, chocolate, and vanilla notes to the mascarpone mixture. The amount used is carefully balanced to infuse flavor without overpowering. For a non-alcoholic version, you could try an Irish cream-flavored syrup (ensure it’s thick enough) or simply increase the vanilla extract.
- Mascarpone Cheese: An Italian cream cheese, mascarpone is renowned for its incredibly smooth, rich, and velvety texture. It provides the luxurious base for our filling, making it wonderfully decadent. Do not substitute with regular cream cheese, as it has a tangier flavor and different consistency.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone and heavy cream, balancing the bitterness of the espresso and the richness of the cheese.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Whipped to stiff peaks, it lightens the mascarpone mixture, giving the filling an ethereal, cloud-like texture that melts in your mouth.
Together, these ingredients create a fluffy, light, and beautifully rich cream that is utterly irresistible.
ESPRESSO MIXTURE – This is essential for moistening the ladyfingers and adding the characteristic tiramisu flavor:
- Strong Brewed Espresso: The stronger, the better! This provides the necessary robust coffee flavor. Ensure it is completely cooled before mixing with Bailey’s and applying to ladyfingers, as warm liquid will melt your delicate filling. If espresso isn’t an option, strong brewed coffee can be used as a substitute.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall aroma and taste, complementing both the coffee and the Irish cream.
GARNISH – The final touch to complete your masterpiece:
- Bittersweet Chocolate: Shaved chocolate adds a beautiful visual appeal and a slight bitterness that perfectly cuts through the sweetness of the parfait. You can use a vegetable peeler for elegant shavings. Alternatively, a dusting of cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips works wonderfully.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfaits
These step-by-step photos and instructions are designed to help you visualize the process of making this delightful recipe. For the complete printable version, including all measurements and instructions, you can Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this page.
- In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, 2 tablespoons of the Bailey’s Irish Cream, and the granulated sugar. Gently whisk or stir these ingredients together until they are fully combined and the mixture is smooth. This forms the rich, creamy base of your filling.
- In a separate mixer bowl, using the whisk attachment, beat the heavy whipping cream on medium-high speed until firm, stiff peaks form. This ensures a light and airy texture for your filling. Once whipped, carefully fold the stiff-peaked whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture using a spatula, incorporating it gently to maintain the airiness.
- Prepare your serving vessels by lining up six dessert dishes. Mini trifle dishes or standard parfait glasses work perfectly for this recipe. (I used mini trifle dishes).
- In a small bowl, stir the vanilla extract and the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of Bailey’s Irish Cream into the strong, cooled espresso coffee. This creates the flavorful soaking liquid for your ladyfingers.
- For each parfait, you will need a total of 4 ladyfingers, split between two layers. Begin by cutting the ladyfingers into bite-sized cubes. Place 6 cubes into the bottom of the first dessert dish, arranging them (5 around the edge, 1 in the center) so the cut sides face outwards, touching the dish for a visually appealing presentation. Drizzle 2 scant tablespoons of the prepared espresso mixture evenly over the ladyfinger cubes. Repeat this process for the remaining 5 dishes.
- Spoon a generous layer of the Bailey’s mascarpone cheese mixture over the ladyfingers in each dish, approximately a heaping 1/4 cup. Gently press down and spread the mixture to form an even layer.
- Sprinkle a portion of the shaved chocolate over the mascarpone layer in each parfait. Remember to reserve enough chocolate for the top layer later.
- Repeat the layering process for each parfait: add another layer of cubed ladyfingers, drizzle with the remaining espresso mixture, follow with another layer of mascarpone cheese mixture, and finally, sprinkle with the reserved shaved chocolate.
- Once all parfaits are assembled, use a clean, dampened cloth to carefully wipe any smudges from the edges of the dessert dishes, ensuring a pristine presentation. Cover the top of each parfait with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out and to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Place them in the refrigerator to chill for a minimum of 8 hours, or ideally, overnight. This chilling time is crucial for the ladyfingers to fully absorb the liquid and for the flavors to deepen and harmonize.
- To serve, remove the parfaits from the refrigerator approximately 30 minutes before you plan to enjoy them. Allowing them to come slightly above refrigerator temperature enhances the flavors and provides the best possible texture. When too cold, the nuanced flavors of the Bailey’s and espresso can be less prominent.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Parfaits
Absolutely, and it’s highly recommended! These parfaits are actually at their best when made the night before, or at least 6-8 hours in advance of serving. This extended chilling period in the refrigerator is crucial for allowing the flavors of the Irish cream, espresso, and mascarpone to fully meld and deepen, creating a more harmonious and decadent taste. It also allows the ladyfingers to soften perfectly without becoming mushy. For optimal flavor and texture, remove the parfaits from the refrigerator about an hour before serving to let them come to a slightly cooler room temperature; this allows the nuances of the ingredients to truly shine.
To maintain their freshness and prevent them from absorbing refrigerator odors, store your Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfaits covered tightly with plastic wrap. Place them in the refrigerator, where they will keep beautifully for up to 3 days. Ensure the plastic wrap creates a good seal over the top of each individual dish.
Yes, you absolutely can! Many readers have successfully adapted this recipe for a larger trifle dish, and it makes for a stunning centerpiece dessert. Simply double all the ingredients listed. Follow the same layering method you would for individual parfaits, ensuring you create even layers of ladyfingers, espresso, and the mascarpone mixture. Once assembled, cover the trifle dish tightly with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for the recommended 6-8 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to develop fully. Serving it slightly above refrigerator temperature will still yield the best taste experience.
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be alcohol-free. Instead of Bailey’s Irish Cream, you can use an Irish cream-flavored syrup or extract (ensure it’s food-grade and suitable for baking) to replicate the taste. Alternatively, you can omit the Bailey’s entirely and increase the vanilla extract slightly, or add a touch of almond or hazelnut extract for a different flavor profile. The creamy texture will remain, and you’ll still have a delicious coffee-chocolate dessert.
For the most authentic tiramisu flavor, a strong, dark-roast espresso is ideal. If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use very strong brewed coffee. French press or Moka pot coffee works well, too. The key is to have a robust coffee flavor that can stand up to the richness of the mascarpone and Bailey’s, and remember to let it cool completely before using.
For elegant chocolate shavings, use a block of good quality bittersweet chocolate that has been chilled in the refrigerator. Take a vegetable peeler and run it along the edge of the chocolate block. The colder the chocolate, the easier it will be to create delicate, curled shavings. If you prefer a simpler garnish, finely grate the chocolate or use a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder just before serving.
Serving Your Exquisite Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfaits
Presentation is key to enhancing the experience of these luxurious parfaits. Serve your Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfaits beautifully topped with a fresh sprinkle of shaved chocolate or a light dusting of high-quality cocoa powder. For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding a fresh mint leaf or a few coffee beans on top. As mentioned in our tips, the parfaits are best enjoyed either at or slightly above room temperature, so be sure to take them out of the refrigerator approximately an hour before you plan on serving. This allows the creamy textures to soften slightly and the intricate flavors to fully blossom. These individual desserts are perfect as a sophisticated ending to a multi-course meal, a delightful treat for a festive gathering, or simply a luxurious personal indulgence. Enjoy every decadent spoonful!
Discover More Indulgent Recipes
- Tiramisu Trifle
- Individual Tiramisu
- Baileys Cheesecake
- Tiramisu Trifle in Mason Jars
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Bailey’s Tiramisu Parfaits
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 lb mascarpone cheese
- 3 ½ tablespoons Bailey’s Irish Cream divided
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 24 soft ladyfingers 1 package*
- 1 ¼ cups strong brewed espresso cooled
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 ounce bittersweet chocolate shaved for garnish
Things You’ll Need
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6 mini trifle dishes or parfait dishes
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Hand mixer or stand mixer
Before You Begin
- As detailed in the ingredient section, there are two main types of ladyfingers. For this recipe, soft, spongy ladyfingers (often found in your grocer’s bakery) are ideal because they soak up the espresso mixture effectively without immediately falling apart when cut and drizzled.
- If you opt for the traditional hard and crunchy Italian ladyfingers (available at specialty markets), be very cautious when moistening them. Instead of drizzling, you’ll want to briefly dip each cookie into the espresso mixture (a quick turn over and lift out) to prevent them from becoming overly saturated and disintegrating. Soft ladyfingers will fall apart if subjected to this dipping method.
Instructions
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Combine mascarpone, 2 tablespoons of the Bailey’s Irish Cream, and the sugar. Whisk or stir together gently until combined.
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In mixer bowl with whisk attachment, beat the heavy whipping cream on medium high until stiff peaks form. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture.
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Line up six dessert dishes (I used mini trifle dishes).
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Stir the vanilla and the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of Baileys into the cooled espresso coffee.
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You will need a total of 4 ladyfingers for each parfait, 2 for each layer. Cut ladyfingers into cubes. Place 6 cubes into the bottom of the dessert dish (5 around the edge and 1 in the center), arranging so that the cut side faces out and touches the side of the dish. Dribble 2 scant tablespoons of espresso over the cubes. Repeat for the other 5 dishes.
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Add a layer of mascarpone cheese mixture to each dish, a heaping 1/4 cup or so. Gently press down and spread to an even layer.
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Sprinkle with shaved chocolate, reserving enough for the second layer.
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Repeat the process, cubed ladyfingers, espresso, mascarpone cheese, then shaved chocolate.
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Use a clean, dampened cloth to wipe the edges of the dessert dishes. Cover the top of each one with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator to chill for at least 8 hours, overnight is best to allow the flavors to mingle.
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To serve, remove from refrigerator about 30 minutes ahead of time for best flavor and texture. When the filling is too cold the flavors are not as prominent.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Bailey’s tiramisu parfaits are actually best when made the night before, or early the day you plan on serving them. The sweet spot is making them around 6-8 hours ahead to allow the flavors to mingle in the refrigerator. Remove the parfaits from the refrigerator an hour before serving as the flavor is more pronounced at or slightly above room temperature.
- Store the parfaits, covered with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This post originally appeared here on November 29, 2011, and has since been updated with new photos, expanded expert tips, and enhanced details for a better user experience.