A cream-based liqueur flavoured with Irish whiskey, and often chocolate, coffee, and vanilla notes. Smooth, sweet, and relatively low in alcohol compared with spirits, it is enjoyed neat over ice, in coffee, or as an ingredient in cocktails and desserts. The emulsion of dairy cream with whiskey and flavourings requires careful formulation to remain stable on the shelf. Commercial brands dominate the category, but homemade versions are popular gifts. In coffee service, a measure of Irish cream liqueur turns an ordinary cup into an indulgent after-dinner drink. The product must be stored according to label directions, as the dairy content makes it more perishable than pure spirits.