Sweet Baked Life

Yes, it’s St. Patrick’s Day today, and yes, I’m part Irish. But more importantly, it’s my 1st Blogiversary! So in honor of this extra special day, I would like to toast all of you with a glass of divine Homemade Baileys Caramel Irish Cream. “May your thoughts be as glad as the shamrocks. May your heart be as light as a song. May each day bring you bright, happy hours that stay with you all the year long.”

Must be part of my Irish roots, but I love this stuff and when I discovered that you could make Homemade Baileys Caramel Irish Cream, well of course, had to give it a try. Believe me, once you whip up this tasty libation, you won’t buy it at the store any longer!  It’s an elegant drink that boasts a beautiful warm color. Just one sip of this incredibly creamy decadence, surrounded with hints of buttery caramel, sweet chocolate, rich espresso, and strong whisky will send you to the moon and warm your heart!

And this past year has been amazing for me — almost like a trip to the moon! You see, exactly one-year ago today I finally got the nerve to press the “Publish” button for my first recipe, Mint O’ Brownies, and the rest is history! Since that day I have baked, cooked and concocted, I’ve experimented, had wonderful taste testers and connected with some great friends, fellow bloggers and have loved, loved, LOVED every minute of what I have done.

As well, I have learned so much throughout the year too — I have tried to understand how to better use my fancy schmancy camera (that my husband got me) and hopefully have begun to take better photos. I have discovered link parties, blogging communities, and food photography sites, all where I have drooled and been inspired by passionate bloggers. I only wish there was more time in the day, week, and year to explore and do more! Every day, like many of you I’m sure, I juggle my crazy full-time job, an almost teen-aged boy, a super-supportive husband along with baking, photographing and writing; all the while trying to find a little time to breathe and enjoy each and every day. And, I would not want it any other way!

So from the bottom of my warmed and grateful heart, I want to take this opportunity to thank EVERYONE — and that means YOU for your continued support and inspiration! I could not have made it this far on my journey without YOU! And I truly hope that you will continue to follow my Sweet Baked Life!

Homemade Baileys Caramel Irish Creme
(recipe inspired from The Messy Baker)

2 cups heavy cream
1-1/4 cup Jameson Irish whiskey
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1/4 cup chocolate syrup (such as Hershey’s)
1/4 cup freshly brewed espresso
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Put all ingredients in a blender and mix on high-speed for about 30 seconds. Pour into a glass container with lid and store in the refrigerator until chilled. Before serving, shake well. Serve straight up or over ice. Will last up to 2 months.

It’s time to celebrate! So go fill your glass with some classy Homemade Baileys Caramel Irish Cream and savour the delightfully incredible flavors! Cheers! xxoo