Creamy chocolate cheesecake, fluffy Irish cream whipped topping, and layers of crushed chocolate cookies come together in this rich and indulgent Bailey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle. This no-bake dessert is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or anytime you want a show-stopping layered treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No oven required, making it simple and convenient
Rich chocolate flavor balanced with smooth Irish cream
Perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings
Beautiful layered presentation in a trifle dish or individual cups
Easy to customize with fruit or different flavor variations
Ideal for holidays and special occasions
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cheesecake Layer
16 ounces (450 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
1/4 cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120 ml) Irish cream liqueur
Additional Layers
20 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed
8 ounces (225 g) semi-sweet chocolate, shaved or chopped for garnish
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Beat on medium speed until fully combined and no lumps remain.
Mix in the vanilla extract and Irish cream liqueur. Continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Set aside.
In a chilled bowl, add the cold heavy whipping cream. Beat on medium speed until it begins to thicken.
Add the Irish cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Continue beating until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overmix.
To assemble, place a layer of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies at the bottom of a large trifle dish or individual serving glasses.
Spread a layer of the chocolate cheesecake mixture evenly over the cookies.
Spoon a layer of chocolate whipped cream over the cheesecake layer.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
Garnish with shaved or chopped semi-sweet chocolate.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set and the flavors to develop.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 to 10
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Variations
Non-Alcoholic Version
Substitute the Irish cream liqueur with Irish cream–flavored coffee creamer or use 1/2 cup heavy cream mixed with 1 teaspoon coffee extract for a similar flavor without alcohol.
Strawberry Chocolate Version
Add a layer of sliced fresh strawberries between the cheesecake and whipped cream layers for a fruity twist.
Mocha Flavor
Stir 1 teaspoon espresso powder into the cheesecake mixture to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Mint Chocolate
Add 1/2 teaspoon mint extract to the whipped cream for a refreshing variation.
Extra Chocolate
Fold 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake layer for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store the trifle covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For best results, keep it well sealed to prevent the whipped cream from absorbing refrigerator odors.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the cream cheese and whipped cream may become grainy once thawed.
Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator. No reheating is required.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert a day in advance?
Yes, this trifle is ideal for making ahead. Chilling overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
Can I leave out the Irish cream?
Yes, you can omit it or replace it with a non-alcoholic Irish cream substitute.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Yes, but freshly whipped cream provides the best flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of chocolate sandwich cookies?
Chocolate cake cubes, brownies, or chocolate graham crackers work well.
How do I keep the layers neat?
Use a spoon or piping bag to carefully add each layer and smooth it gently.
Can I make this in mason jars?
Yes, individual jars are perfect for parties and easy serving.
Is this dessert overly sweet?
It is rich and sweet, but the cocoa powder and cream cheese help balance the sweetness.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the powdered sugar slightly without affecting the texture too much.
How long does it need to chill?
At least 2 hours, but overnight chilling gives the best results.
Can I add nuts for texture?
Yes, chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts can be layered in for added crunch.
Conclusion
Bailey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle is a decadent, creamy dessert layered with rich chocolate flavor and smooth Irish cream. Easy to prepare and perfect for entertaining, this no-bake trifle delivers impressive presentation and unforgettable taste in every spoonful.
A rich and indulgent no-bake dessert layered with creamy chocolate cheesecake, fluffy Irish cream whipped topping, and crushed chocolate cookies. This Bailey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Trifle is perfect for holidays and special occasions.
Total Time:2 hours 30 minutes
Yield:8–10 servings
Ingredients
16 ounces (450 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar (for cheesecake layer)
1/4 cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer)
1/2 cup (120 ml) Irish cream liqueur (for cheesecake layer)
2 cups (480 ml) cold heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup (60 ml) Irish cream liqueur (for whipped cream)
