
Think of this creamy sweet Irish coffee-inspired dessert as the perfect cool treat after dinner. It's got all the comfort you love from the classic drink, wrapped up in a dreamy pie that's sure to stand out for holidays or casual get-togethers. The rich hit of espresso and hint of whiskey kick blend right into a gooey marshmallowy center, all sitting on a crunchy graham base. It looks fancy, but you'll find it's a total breeze to whip up.
I brought this sweet pie out for St. Patrick's Day the first time, and everyone cheered. Now, whenever we have winter celebrations or anyone wants a special sweet, it's what gets asked for most.
Dreamy Ingredients
- Whipped cream and cocoa powder: These two are totally optional but make for the best finish—super pretty and extra tasty
- Graham cracker crust: Crunchy and buttery and so easy, whether you buy one or make it in your own kitchen
- Thawed whipped topping: This lifts up your filling, giving it that fluffy, cloud-like vibe—you want the freezer tub kind for this
- Irish whiskey: Your favorite bottle works here and brings just the right amount of warmth
- Large marshmallows: Pick the softest bags you can find—these get melty and set up the sweet base
- Instant espresso powder: Look for one that's smooth and highly rated to get that punchy coffee note
- Half and half: Find it by the cream in your store—this smooth dairy makes the pie extra rich yet balanced
- Cold water and ice: Needed to build a speedy ice bath so your filling sets just right and slices beautifully
Simple Instructions
- Top With Whipped Cream:
- Right before you dig in, pile or pipe whipped cream over the pie and dust with cocoa. Pop it into the fridge cold and enjoy every slice fresh.
- Pour and Chill:
- Once you've got your filling, scoop it right into the crust, smooth the surface, cover, and let it sit in the fridge for at least four hours—even better overnight. It firms up for perfect servings.
- Fold In Whipped Topping:
- Now gently mix in your thawed whipped topping. Be careful to keep everything floofy and light.
- Add Whiskey:
- Mix in the whiskey after it cools. Your whole kitchen will smell amazing.
- Cool The Filling Down:
- Pull your ice bath out. Sit the saucepot inside it and stir until things hit room temp. It's the trick for that creamy, never-splitting filling.
- Melt Marshmallows:
- With your pan on low, combine the espresso mixture and marshmallows. Stir around for ten minutes or so—until smooth and melted through. Patience wins here.
- Mix The Espresso:
- Grab a little bowl and dissolve espresso powder in your half and half. You don't want any graininess—blend well.
- Make An Ice Bath:
- Chill a big dish filled with lots of ice and cold water by stashing it in the freezer. It's crucial for getting the right pie texture.

The best upgrades come from using top-notch espresso powder—takes it from just tasty to absolutely impressive. My favorite part? Letting my kids help spoon on the whipped topping and seeing the filling puff up, everyone laughing the whole time.
Easy Storage
Keep your leftover pie covered and cold in the fridge. It'll stay yummy for up to three days, and the flavors keep getting better. If you want to keep slices longer, freeze them in plastic and foil, then just thaw them overnight back in the fridge.
Switch Things Up
Swap whiskey for a splash of vanilla if you want it alcohol-free. Try a different crust too: chocolate cookie or shortbread totally switch up the vibe. No espresso powder? Strong instant coffee will do the trick.
Fun Ways To Serve
This pie is awesome with a mug of coffee or some Baileys. It's the perfect finish after a St. Patty's dinner, a big family get-together, or for those nights you want a treat with zero fuss.

Irish Coffee Pie Backstory
Inspired by the cozy combo of coffee, cream, and whiskey, this sweet pie brings that drink's best flavors into a totally new dessert. Home bakers started making versions in the winter to bring some fun to their tables, and now it's a go-to for anyone loving a playful twist on classics.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can freshly brewed coffee work instead of instant espresso powder?
Stick with instant espresso to keep things creamy and bold. If you use regular coffee, the filling might turn thin and the coffee flavor won't pop as much.
- → What’s a good swap for whiskey?
Try Irish cream if you want it a little different, or skip the booze and keep it just sweet for everyone.
- → What's the best way to keep leftovers?
Pop it in the fridge covered and it’ll last about 3 days. Want to save it longer? Wrap it tight and freeze for a month.
- → Can I get this done the day before?
Yep, it’s easy to make ahead. Let it chill at least 4 hours or just leave overnight for the best result.
- → Which toppings go well?
Whipped cream and cocoa powder are classics, but tossing on chocolate shavings or some espresso beans makes it extra fancy.