Irish cream soda is a delicious and refreshing drink that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of Irish cream liqueur, club soda, and heavy cream creates a creamy and flavorful drink that is sure to please.
While there’s no specific record or universally accepted history of the ‘Irish Cream Soda,’ it is reasonable to infer its origins based on the histories of its main components: cream soda and Irish cream.
Cream soda, as mentioned earlier, is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. Its distinct vanilla flavor profile, combined with the effervescence of soda water, made it a popular choice at soda fountains.
On the other hand, Irish cream is a cream liqueur that blends Irish whiskey, cream, and often other flavorings like coffee or chocolate. The most famous brand of Irish cream, Baileys, was created in the 1970s in Ireland by Gilbeys of Ireland.
The ‘Irish Cream Soda,’ then, is likely a modern cocktail creation that combines these two well-loved beverages. The combination of the smooth, creamy, and slightly boozy Irish cream with the sweet and fizzy cream soda makes for a unique and enjoyable drink, especially around St. Patrick’s Day. Its exact history, however, appears to be undocumented, and it likely varies from bartender to bartender and from place to place.
Irish Cream Soda Recipe
Course: DrinksDifficulty: Easy1
servings1
minute4
minutes150
kcalThis Irish cream soda is creamy, refreshing, and perfect for a night out or a relaxing evening at home. The Irish cream liqueur adds a rich and creamy flavor, while the club soda adds a touch of fizz. The heavy cream adds a touch of richness and creaminess, and the whipped cream and maraschino cherries garnish add a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Ingredients
2 ounces Irish cream liqueur
4 ounces club soda
1 tablespoon heavy cream
Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
Maraschino cherries, for garnish (optional)
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the Irish cream liqueur, club soda, and heavy cream.
- Stir to combine.
- Garnish with whipped cream and maraschino cherries, if desired.
Notes
- Use your favorite brand of Irish cream liqueur.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half.
- To make this drink ahead of time, you can combine the ingredients in a pitcher and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply pour the drink over ice and garnish.
What makes it a cream soda?
Cream soda is a sweet carbonated drink that is traditionally flavored with vanilla, which gives it a distinctive ‘creamy’ flavor. It’s the combination of carbonation and this vanilla essence that gives the beverage its name. Some versions also include a little cream or milk to enhance the creaminess.
How to make Italian cream soda without curdling?
To avoid curdling, you should first pour the flavored syrup and seltzer water into a glass. Stir them together to ensure they are well combined. Only then should you gently pour the cream or half-and-half on top, avoiding any vigorous stirring after you’ve added the cream. The cold temperature of the seltzer water will help prevent the cream from curdling.
What is Italian cream soda called?
In Italy, an Italian cream soda is usually referred to as “Creamosa.” However, the name can vary depending on the location and specific ingredients used in the beverage.
Can you mix Baileys with 7up?
Yes, you can mix Baileys with 7up, but the combination is not very common. Baileys, being a cream-based liqueur, might react with the acidity in 7up, which could cause it to curdle. It’s always best to test a small amount before mixing a large drink.
Is cream soda just vanilla soda?
While vanilla is a primary flavoring in most cream sodas, it’s not the same as vanilla soda. Cream soda often has a creamier, smoother texture than standard soda due to additional ingredients such as cream or milk. Also, the flavor profile is generally more complex than that of a plain vanilla soda.
What is the original cream soda?
The original cream soda is thought to have originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. It was typically made using soda water and a sweet syrup that was often vanilla-flavored. E.E. Rutter, a Philadelphia pharmacist, is often credited with the invention of the cream soda flavor. It quickly gained popularity and has remained a favorite in soda fountains and grocery stores ever since.