It's That Time Of Year

While it was made earlier this month, I thought I'd post this beauty of a recipe once more with a major American holiday approaching on Thursday. We all know that everyone enjoys Thanksgiving that day south of the border, but maybe you need something different to finish off the evening or just a new beverage to try. With that being said, Irish Cream is a good alternative to your usual evening nightcaps as we approach the festive season. This recipe is easy to make, tastes rather incredible, and won't set you back a pile of dough. The ingredients are rich, but the finished product always brings a smile to my face.

I'll take no credit for my annual posting of this recipe. It goes to Uni-Watch's Paul Lukas who first turned me on to this beverage, and I have to say that I'm glad I ventured down the path of making it an annual rite in my holiday preparations. My parents have joined in the annual making of Irish Cream as well, and they enjoy it aound the fireplace in the evening during the winter. All in all, this will please any and all who partake, but please remember to be responsible with respect to consumption!

Here are the ingredients and steps to make your own homemade Irish Cream!

Ingredients

2 cups of Irish whiskey*
2 cups of heavy cream**
1 can of sweetened condensed milk
1 tbsp. of chocolate syrup
1 tsp. of vanilla extract
1 espresso shot***
1/4 tsp. of almond extract

Directions

Mix all ingredients in a large container and be sure to stir well. Refrigerate for a couple of hours, and enjoy over ice.

Notes

* - any mid-range Irish whiskey will do - Bushmills, Jameson, Tullamore Dew - so don't buy any high-end whiskey. You'll lose the nuances of the high-end whiskey, which is what you're paying more for, in the Irish cream mixture.
** - whipping cream at 35% works best for a thick, smooth Irish cream. At the very lowest, don't stray below 18% or you'll lose the creaminess of the beverage.
*** - an espresso shot is 1 tsp. of instant espresso in 2 tbsp. of hot water.

It's easy to make, smooth to drink, and a great way to cap off a good Thanksgiving meal or a nightcap on a cool winter's eve. The espresso shot gives that coffee flavour that mixes nicely with the sweetness of the condensed milk and chocolate, and it's especially good poured over the rocks after chilling for the better part of the day!

Enjoy this recipe, and share it if people ask! It's sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!