12+ Best St Patrick’s Day Traditional Desserts to Try Today!

St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of Irish culture and heritage, marked by vibrant parades, lively music, and of course, delicious food.

One of the highlights of the day is indulging in traditional Irish desserts that have been passed down through generations.

From rich and creamy puddings to buttery cakes, these desserts are a beloved part of St. Patrick’s Day festivities.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most iconic St. Patrick’s Day traditional desserts that will add a touch of Irish charm to your celebrations.

12+ St Patrick’S Day Traditional Desserts to Try Today!

Whether you’re indulging in rich and creamy puddings, decadent chocolate cakes, or refreshing Shamrock Shakes, these timeless desserts are sure to add a touch of Irish charm to your celebrations.

So gather your friends and family, whip up some delicious treats, and raise a glass to St. Patrick’s Day!

Irish Apple Cake

Irish Apple Cake is a beloved traditional dessert that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.

This moist and tender cake is packed with chunks of juicy apples and warmly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.

It’s simple yet delicious, making it a favorite among families in Ireland.

Recipe:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Stir in the beaten eggs and milk until just combined.
• Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Irish Apple Cake is a classic St. Patrick’s Day dessert that’s sure to please everyone at your celebration.

With its comforting flavors and moist texture, it’s the perfect way to end a traditional Irish meal.

Irish Cream Cheesecake

Irish Cream Cheesecake is a luxurious and indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress your guests on St. Patrick’s Day.

This creamy cheesecake is infused with the flavors of Irish cream liqueur and topped with a rich chocolate ganache, making it a decadent treat for any occasion.

Recipe:

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup Irish cream liqueur
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Irish cream liqueur

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
• In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the Irish cream liqueur and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
• Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
• Remove from the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• To make the chocolate ganache, place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 1-2 minutes. Stir until smooth, then stir in the Irish cream liqueur.
• Pour the ganache over the cooled cheesecake and spread it out evenly.
• Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or until set.
• Serve chilled and enjoy!

Irish Cream Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to be the highlight of your St. Patrick’s Day feast.

With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s the perfect way to indulge in a taste of Ireland.

Irish Soda Bread Pudding

Irish Soda Bread Pudding is a comforting and rustic dessert that pays homage to the classic Irish bread.

Made with cubes of dense soda bread soaked in a creamy custard mixture, this bread pudding is flavored with warm spices and served with a drizzle of whiskey sauce for an extra touch of Irish flair.

For the bread pudding:

• 1 loaf Irish soda bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the whiskey sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Irish whiskey

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Place the cubed Irish soda bread in the prepared baking dish.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
• Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to coat them evenly.
• Let the bread pudding sit for about 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top.
• While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the whiskey sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and heavy cream, and cook until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the Irish whiskey.
• Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with the whiskey sauce.

Irish Soda Bread Pudding is a delightful way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a taste of traditional Irish cuisine.

With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s the perfect dessert for warming up on a chilly March evening.

Bailey’s Irish Cream Chocolate Cake

Bailey’s Irish Cream Chocolate Cake is a decadent dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with the creamy taste of Bailey’s Irish Cream.

Moist chocolate cake layers are infused with Bailey’s and sandwiched together with Bailey’s-infused chocolate ganache frosting for an indulgent treat.

Recipe:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 1/2 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Bailey’s chocolate ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup Bailey’s Irish Cream

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
• In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until pale and fluffy.
• Gradually add the vegetable oil, buttermilk, Bailey’s Irish Cream, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture, mixing until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined and smooth.
• Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
• To make the Bailey’s chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Stir in the Bailey’s Irish Cream.
• Once the cakes are completely cool, assemble the cake layers with the Bailey’s chocolate ganache frosting between each layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining ganache.
• Slice and serve the cake, and enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness!

Bailey’s Irish Cream Chocolate Cake is a luxurious dessert that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in style.

With its moist chocolate layers and decadent Bailey’s chocolate ganache, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Irish Coffee Pudding Cups

Irish Coffee Pudding Cups are a delightful dessert inspired by the classic Irish coffee cocktail.

Creamy coffee-flavored pudding is layered with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder, creating a sophisticated and delicious treat.

Recipe:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• Cocoa powder, for dusting

Instructions:

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and instant coffee granules until smooth.
• Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the egg yolks until well combined.
• Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer the pudding to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, pressing the plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.
• In a separate bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
• To assemble the pudding cups, spoon a layer of coffee pudding into the bottom of each serving glass or cup. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and repeat the layers.
• Finish with a final dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.
• Serve chilled and enjoy the rich and creamy flavors of Irish coffee in pudding form!

Irish Coffee Pudding Cups offer a delightful twist on the classic Irish coffee cocktail, making them a perfect St. Patrick’s Day dessert for coffee lovers.

With their creamy texture and rich coffee flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with your guests.

Irish Whiskey Bread Pudding

Irish Whiskey Bread Pudding is a comforting and boozy dessert that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.

Made with chunks of bread soaked in a rich custard mixture flavored with Irish whiskey, this indulgent pudding is baked to golden perfection and served warm with a drizzle of whiskey sauce.

For the bread pudding:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or challah)
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup Irish whiskey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional)

For the whiskey sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Irish whiskey

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Place the cubed bread in a large mixing bowl.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, Irish whiskey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
• Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and gently toss to coat. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. If desired, stir in the raisins or currants.
• Transfer the bread mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the pudding is set and golden brown on top.
• While the bread pudding is baking, prepare the whiskey sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and heavy cream, and cook until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the Irish whiskey.
• Serve the bread pudding warm, drizzled with the whiskey sauce.

Irish Whiskey Bread Pudding is a comforting and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.

With its rich flavors and boozy kick, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Enjoy this classic Irish treat as a delicious way to end your festive meal.

Shamrock Sugar Cookies

Shamrock Sugar Cookies are a fun and festive treat for St. Patrick’s Day.

These buttery cookies are shaped like shamrocks and decorated with green icing and sprinkles, making them perfect for celebrating the luck of the Irish!

Recipe:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Green food coloring
• Green icing and sprinkles, for decorating

Instructions:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
• Divide the dough in half and add green food coloring to one half, mixing until the desired shade of green is achieved.
• Roll out each portion of dough between two sheets of parchment paper to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
• Use a shamrock-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies from the dough.
• Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating with green icing and sprinkles.

Shamrock Sugar Cookies are a delightful way to add some St. Patrick’s Day cheer to your dessert table.

Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a festive spread, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats

Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats are a whimsical twist on the classic marshmallow cereal bars.

Made with Lucky Charms cereal and marshmallows, these colorful treats are perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with a touch of magic!

Recipe:

• 6 cups Lucky Charms cereal
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Green food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
• Add the mini marshmallows to the saucepan and stir until completely melted and smooth.
• If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to the marshmallow mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the Lucky Charms cereal until well coated.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and press it down evenly with a greased spatula.
• Allow the treats to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Lucky Charms Rice Krispie Treats are a fun and whimsical dessert that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day.

With their colorful marshmallows and sweet cereal flavor, these treats are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Irish Cream Chocolate Truffles

Irish Cream Chocolate Truffles are luxurious bite-sized treats that are perfect for indulging in on St. Patrick’s Day.

Made with a creamy chocolate ganache infused with Irish cream liqueur, these truffles are coated in cocoa powder for an extra decadent touch.

Recipe:

• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Irish cream liqueur
• Cocoa powder, for coating

Instructions:

• Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
• In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
• Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
• Stir the chocolate and cream together until smooth and well combined.
• Stir in the Irish cream liqueur until evenly incorporated.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the ganache mixture for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
• Once the ganache is firm, use a spoon or small scoop to portion out the mixture and roll it into small balls.
• Roll the truffles in cocoa powder to coat evenly.
• Place the coated truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to set.

Irish Cream Chocolate Truffles are a sophisticated and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.

With their creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor, these truffles are sure to impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to any celebration.

Irish Apple Cake

Irish Apple Cake is a rustic and comforting dessert that showcases the flavors of Ireland.

Made with tender apples, warm spices, and a buttery cake batter, this traditional Irish treat is perfect served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Recipe:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (such as Granny Smith)

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix until just combined.
• Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Slice and serve the Irish Apple Cake warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the cozy flavors of Ireland!

Irish Apple Cake is a delightful dessert that celebrates the flavors of the Emerald Isle.

With its tender crumb and bursts of sweet apple, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends on St. Patrick’s Day.

Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes with Baileys Frosting

Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes with Baileys Frosting are a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, stout beer, and Irish cream liqueur.

These moist and indulgent cupcakes are topped with a creamy Baileys frosting for a St. Patrick’s Day treat that’s sure to impress.

Recipe:

• 1 cup Guinness stout beer
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 2/3 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Baileys frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream liqueur
• Green sprinkles, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two 12-cup muffin tins with paper liners.
• In a small saucepan, heat the Guinness and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted.
• Whisk in the cocoa powder until smooth, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
• Gradually add the Guinness mixture to the egg mixture, stirring until smooth.
• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
• Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
• To make the Baileys frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the Baileys, until smooth and creamy.
• Frost the cooled cupcakes with the Baileys frosting and garnish with green sprinkles, if desired.

Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes with Baileys Frosting are a delightful and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.

With their rich chocolate flavor and creamy Baileys frosting, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.

Irish Cream Cheesecake Bars

Irish Cream Cheesecake Bars are a luscious and creamy dessert that’s perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.

These decadent bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a velvety Irish cream cheesecake filling, and a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra touch of indulgence.

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the cheesecake filling:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup Irish cream liqueur
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate ganache:

• 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Green sprinkles, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
• In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan in an even layer.
• Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Stir in the Irish cream liqueur and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
• Remove the cheesecake bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
• To make the chocolate ganache, place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 1-2 minutes. Stir the mixture until smooth and glossy.
• Drizzle the chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake bars and sprinkle with green sprinkles, if desired.
• Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the cheesecake bars out of the pan and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares and serve.

Irish Cream Cheesecake Bars are a luxurious and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day.

With their creamy texture, rich flavor, and decadent chocolate ganache topping, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any celebration.

Conclusion

St. Patrick’s Day is a time to celebrate Irish culture and heritage, and what better way to do so than with traditional Irish desserts?

From the Luck of Irish Cake to the Baileys Irish Cream Cheesecake, your taste buds will be delighted with these festive treats.

So, don’t be afraid to indulge yourself on this special occasion and give yourself a sweet reward.