Baileys Cheesecake Cups

There’s something about the holiday season that calls for a little indulgence, and that’s when Baileys Cheesecake Cups became my secret weapon. It all started last winter—I was hosting a small get-together and wanted a dessert that was quick, impressive, and just a touch naughty. With a box of brownie mix and a splash of Baileys, I whipped up these fudgy cups topped with a creamy, boozy filling in just 15 minutes of prep. The first batch disappeared before I could blink—my friends raved about the chocolate-Baileys combo, and I’ve been making them ever since. In 2025, we’re all about quick party sweets that wow, and Baileys Cheesecake Cups are the perfect mix of fun and flavor. Let’s dive into this delicious tale—I’ll guide you through every step to make your cups a holiday hit.

Must-Have Kitchen Tools

Before we get started, let’s grab the essentials. You don’t need a bartender’s kit to make Baileys Cheesecake Cups, but a few tools make it a snap. A 12-cup muffin tin is your foundation—this nonstick one pops out treats effortlessly, grab it here. I’ve used it for everything from muffins to these cups, and it’s a star. A handheld mixer whips the filling smooth—this model is my go-to for speed and power. And a shot glass shapes those perfect wells—this set doubles for baking and sipping. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. With these in your kitchen, you’re ready to craft some boozy holiday desserts.

Understanding the Ingredients

The allure of Baileys Cheesecake Cups comes from its simple yet indulgent ingredients—each one adds a layer of delight. Cooking spray keeps the muffin tin slick—essential for easy release of these quick party sweets. A box of brownie mix (plus its extras like eggs, oil, and water) forms the fudgy base—store-bought saves time, but the rich chocolate taste feels homemade. For the filling, 4 oz. of softened cream cheese brings tangy creaminess, while 2 Tbsp. of melted mini semisweet chocolate chips add a silky depth—more chips garnish for that chocolatey pop. Baileys Irish Cream (2 Tbsp.) is the star—its smooth, boozy kick turns these into boozy holiday desserts. And 4 oz. of Cool Whip folds in lightness—no whipping needed, just pure ease. Together, they create a treat that’s rich yet effortless.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Baileys Cheesecake Cups (makes 12):

• Cooking spray, for muffin tin
• 1 box brownie mix, plus ingredients called for on the box (typically eggs, oil, water)
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 2 Tbsp. mini semisweet chocolate chips, melted, plus more for garnish
• 2 Tbsp. Baileys Irish Cream
• 4 oz. Cool Whip

These staples stack into boozy holiday desserts with a quick mix—pure festive fun.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s whip up these cups—here’s every detail to make them perfect.

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Tin
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray—coat every corner so your Baileys Cheesecake Cups slide out clean. This is the foundation for success.

Step 2: Mix and Bake the Brownies
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the brownie batter according to the box—usually a quick stir of eggs, oil, and water until smooth. Spoon it into the muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full—don’t overfill, or shaping gets tricky. Bake for 25 to 27 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs—fudgy is the goal here.

Step 3: Shape the Cups
As soon as the brownies are out, press a shot glass into the center of each while they’re hot—twist gently to form shallow cups. Let them cool completely in the tin—patience keeps your Baileys Cheesecake Cups intact for filling.

Step 4: Whip the Baileys Filling
In a medium bowl, use your handheld mixer to beat the softened cream cheese, melted chocolate chips, and Baileys until smooth—about 1-2 minutes. Gently fold in the Cool Whip with a spatula—keep it light and fluffy, no overmixing. This boozy blend is what makes these quick party sweets sing.

Step 5: Fill and Garnish
Scoop the filling into the cooled brownie cups—a small spoon or piping bag works great for neatness. Sprinkle extra mini chocolate chips on top—go generous for that chocolate crunch. Your Baileys Cheesecake Cups are now ready to steal the show.

Tips for the Best Baileys Cheesecake Cups

Here’s how to make them extra special, from my kitchen trials:

• Boozy Boost: Add an extra teaspoon of Baileys—amps up the vibe for boozy holiday desserts.
• Quick Cool: Chill the tin in the fridge for 15 minutes post-baking—speeds up assembly.
• Topping Twist: Swap chips for crushed peppermint—adds a festive kick to quick party sweets.
• Filling Flair: Swirl in green food coloring—ties it to St. Paddy’s if you’re feeling thematic.

That peppermint idea came from a holiday party—it turned heads and got tons of compliments!

Nutritional Info

Per cup (based on 12, varies with brownie mix):

• Calories: ~300
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 32g
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 200mg

They’re a festive indulgence—perfect for boozy holiday desserts that delight.

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FAQs

Real answers from my baking adventures:

Can I make them ahead?
Yes—bake and fill a day early, chill, and garnish before serving.

No Baileys?
Swap with milk and a splash of vanilla—less boozy but still tasty.

How do I store them?
Refrigerate for 3 days in an airtight container—freezing works too for a month.

Cups won’t hold shape?
Press gently with the shot glass—too hard crumbles them; cool fully first.

Conclusion

Baileys Cheesecake Cups are a holiday game-changer—fudgy, creamy, and spiked with just enough Baileys to make them irresistible. In 2025, we’re loving quick party sweets that bring the wow without the work, and these cups deliver with boozy flair. Whether it’s a festive gathering, a cozy night in, or a St. Paddy’s treat, Baileys Cheesecake Cups are quick to prep and guaranteed to impress. Grab your muffin tin (like this one), whip up a batch, and watch them vanish—I promise they’ll be the talk of the table. Pin your boozy cups with #BaileysCheesecakeCups or tag me below—I’m dying to see your creations! Craving more boozy holiday desserts? Follow my Pinterest for sweets that make every moment a little merrier—your dessert lineup deserves this Irish twist.