If you've been scrolling through supermarket shelves or searching online for a vegan Baileys, you're not alone. Thousands of UK consumers are hunting for a dairy-free version of the iconic Irish cream liqueur, only to find themselves frustrated and confused. The truth is, whilst Baileys did create a vegan version called Almande, it's virtually impossible to find in the UK today. But here's the good news: the vegan cream liqueur market has exploded with alternatives that many argue taste even better than the original.
Whether you're lactose intolerant, following a plant-based lifestyle, or simply looking for a more sustainable option, finding the perfect vegan Baileys alternative doesn't have to be complicated. In this guide, we'll explore exactly what happened to vegan Baileys, reveal the best alternatives available in the UK right now, and show you where to buy them online with just a few clicks. By the end, you'll know precisely which vegan cream liqueur deserves a spot in your drinks cabinet.
The Baileys Story: What Happened to the Vegan Version?
Back in 2017, Baileys launched Almande, their official vegan alternative made with almond milk and a hint of vanilla. It seemed like the perfect solution for dairy-free drinkers who still wanted that signature creamy, indulgent experience. The product gained a loyal following, particularly amongst those with lactose intolerance and vegan consumers who'd been missing out on cream liqueurs entirely.
However, if you've tried to find Baileys Almande in UK supermarkets recently, you've probably noticed it's disappeared. Whilst the product is still available in some international markets, it's been discontinued across most of Europe, including the UK. Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, and Waitrose no longer stock it regularly, and even specialist retailers struggle to keep it on shelves. The official reason hasn't been publicly disclosed, but industry insiders suggest it simply didn't achieve the sales volumes needed to justify continued distribution in the European market.
This discontinuation has left a significant gap in the market. Consumers who discovered Baileys Almande and incorporated it into their festive traditions or regular entertaining routines suddenly found themselves without their go-to vegan cream liqueur. The demand hasn't disappeared though, in fact, it's grown stronger as more people embrace plant-based lifestyles. According to The Vegan Society, there are now over 1.5 million vegans in the UK, and that number is rising every year.
The silver lining? This gap created an opportunity for innovative brands to step in with alternatives that often surpass the original in taste, sustainability, and versatility.
Best Vegan Baileys Alternatives in the UK: A Complete Comparison
The vegan cream liqueur market has matured significantly over the past few years. You're no longer limited to one or two options, instead, you can choose from several excellent alternatives, each with its own unique characteristics. Here's how the leading vegan Baileys alternatives stack up:
| Brand | Base Spirit | Milk Type | Flavours | Allergens | Approx. Price | UK Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cremura | Tequila | Coconut | Coffee, Chocolate, Rose | None (gluten-free) | £25–35 | Direct online, select retailers |
| Besos De Oro | Rum | Oat | Original, Salted Caramel | Contains gluten | £25–28 | Ocado, specialty shops |
| Vegan Baileys (DIY) | N/A | Various | Customisable | Depends on recipe | £10–15 | Homemade |
| Marks & Spencer Plant | Whisky | Oat | Original only | Contains gluten | £15 | M&S stores |
| Fjine Vieux | Brandy | Almond | Original | May contain nuts | £22–25 | Online retailers |
What immediately stands out is the diversity in base spirits and milk alternatives. Whilst most brands have opted for whisky or rum with oat milk (following a fairly traditional cream liqueur formula), Cremaura has taken a boldly different approach with tequila and coconut milk. This isn't just a marketing gimmick, the tequila base creates a smoother, more sophisticated flavour profile that pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of coconut.
The coconut milk choice also matters significantly for anyone with multiple dietary requirements. Whilst oat-based alternatives may contain gluten, Cremaura is completely allergen-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten, nuts, soy, and dairy simultaneously. For households where multiple people have different dietary restrictions, having one bottle that everyone can enjoy eliminates the need for multiple purchases.
Availability is another crucial factor. Whilst some supermarket own-brands offer convenience, they're often limited to single flavours and seasonal availability. Shopping direct from Cremaura's website (Shop now) means you'll always find stock, can explore all three distinctive flavours, and benefit from better pricing than third-party retailers.
Why Cremaura Stands Out as the Superior Vegan Baileys Alternative
Let's talk about what makes Cremaura genuinely different, because the vegan cream liqueur market isn't short on options, but it is short on brands doing something truly innovative.
The tequila base is the first game-changer. Traditional cream liqueurs rely on whisky or rum, which can create a heavy, hot finish that doesn't appeal to everyone. Cremaura's tequila foundation offers a cleaner, lighter profile that allows the other flavours to shine through without overwhelming your palate. It's smooth enough to sip neat over ice, yet complex enough to elevate your coffee or create show-stopping cocktails.
Then there's the flavour range. The Coffee variant delivers rich espresso notes with a velvety coconut finish, think of your favourite iced latte transformed into an indulgent liqueur. But the real standout is the Rose flavour, a sophisticated option that brings floral elegance to your drinks cabinet. It's ideal for those who find traditional cream liqueurs too predictable and want something special for entertaining.
Beyond taste, Cremaura's sustainability credentials genuinely matter. Every bottle sold plants a tree through verified reforestation projects, meaning your purchase contributes directly to environmental restoration. The Frugal Bottle packaging uses significantly less glass than traditional bottles, reducing carbon emissions during production and transport. For eco-conscious consumers, these aren't just marketing claims, they're tangible actions that align your purchases with your values.
The allergen-free formulation cannot be overstated. If you're gluten-free, this eliminates the guesswork and label-checking that comes with oat-based alternatives. If you're avoiding nuts, you don't have to worry about almond milk varieties. The coconut milk base is creamy, naturally sweet, and creates that signature velvety texture without any of the common allergens that plague other options.
Customer testimonials consistently highlight the versatility and premium taste. One reviewer noted it's "the only vegan cream liqueur that doesn't taste like a compromise," whilst another mentioned using it to convert non-vegan friends who couldn't tell the difference from traditional options. When a product appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike, you know it's succeeded on flavour alone.
How to Enjoy Your Vegan Cream Liqueur
Once you've got your hands on a quality vegan Baileys alternative like Cremaura, the serving possibilities are genuinely endless. The beauty of a well-crafted cream liqueur is its versatility across different occasions and preferences.
For purists, serving it neat over ice is the perfect way to appreciate the nuanced flavours. The tequila base in Cremaura means it's smooth enough to sip slowly, allowing the coconut cream and flavour notes to develop on your palate. This works particularly well as an after-dinner digestif, replacing traditional whisky or brandy with something lighter yet equally sophisticated.
Coffee lovers should absolutely try adding it to their morning brew or afternoon pick-me-up. The Coffee flavour creates an instant vegan latte with depth and complexity, whilst the Chocolate variant turns ordinary coffee into a luxurious mocha. Use roughly 30-50ml per cup depending on your sweetness preference, and you've got a barista-quality drink at home. It's also brilliant in iced coffee during summer months, creating a creamy texture without any dairy.
Cocktail enthusiasts will find Cremaura exceptionally mixable. Try a vegan Espresso Martini using the Coffee liqueur, vodka, and a shot of fresh espresso for a show-stopping serve. The Rose flavour works beautifully in champagne cocktails or mixed with gin and tonic for a floral twist.
For dessert applications, these cream liqueurs shine. Drizzle them over vegan ice cream, mix into tiramisu recipes, or incorporate into chocolate truffles for an adults-only treat. The Rose flavour particularly elevates fruit-based desserts, whilst the Coffee variant is perfect for boozy brownies or vegan affogato. Because they're allergen-free, you can confidently serve them at dinner parties without worrying about guests' dietary restrictions.
Gift-giving occasions deserve special mention. A bottle of Cremaura makes an impressive present for birthdays, housewarmings, or thank-you gestures. The distinctive flavours and sustainable packaging make it memorable, whilst the premium positioning ensures it feels special rather than generic. Pairing it with quality vegan chocolates or artisan coffee creates a thoughtful hamper that any plant-based friend would appreciate.
Where to Buy Vegan Baileys Alternatives in the UK
Finding a reliable source for your vegan cream liqueur shouldn't be a treasure hunt. Whilst some options appear sporadically in supermarkets, the most consistent and convenient way to purchase quality vegan Baileys alternatives is online.
Major UK supermarkets have inconsistent stock when it comes to vegan cream liqueurs. Marks & Spencer occasionally carries their own plant-based version, but availability varies by location and season. Waitrose and Ocado sometimes stock speciality brands, but you'll often find limited flavour options and higher markups compared to buying direct. Tesco and Sainsbury's rarely dedicate shelf space to vegan cream liqueurs outside of the Christmas period, making year-round availability frustratingly unreliable.
Online retailers like Amazon and specialty vegan shops offer more variety, but you'll typically pay premium prices and face longer delivery times. Third-party sellers also mean less quality control and potential storage issues that can affect taste and consistency.
The smartest approach is buying directly from Cremaura's website - www.cremaura.com. You'll find all three flavours consistently in stock, benefit from better pricing without retail markup, and access exclusive offers that aren't available elsewhere. Free UK delivery is included on orders over a certain threshold, and the brand frequently runs promotions on multi-bottle purchases, perfect if you want to try different flavours or stock up for entertaining.
Direct purchasing also supports a UK-based independent brand rather than funnelling money through large retailers. Your order contributes directly to their tree-planting initiative, meaning every purchase has a measurable environmental impact. The website offers detailed tasting notes, cocktail recipes, and serving suggestions that help you get the most from your purchase. Customer service is responsive if you have questions about delivery, storage, or flavour recommendations.
For those who prefer shopping in person, select independent retailers and vegan shops across the UK stock Cremaura. Check the website's stockist locator to find your nearest supplier, though availability and flavour range may be more limited than ordering online.
Your Perfect Vegan Baileys Alternative Awaits
The search for a vegan Baileys doesn't have to end in disappointment. Whilst Baileys Almande may have left UK shelves, the alternatives available today offer superior taste, better sustainability credentials, and more versatility than the original ever provided. The vegan cream liqueur market has matured from compromise products into premium options that appeal to everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.
Cremaura represents the evolution of what a vegan Baileys alternative should be, innovative, delicious, and genuinely better for both you and the planet. The tequila base, coconut milk formulation, and three distinctive flavours create an experience that stands apart from traditional cream liqueurs whilst remaining completely accessible and enjoyable. The allergen-free formula and sustainable packaging aren't afterthoughts; they're core to what makes this brand worth supporting.
Whether you're treating yourself, stocking your drinks cabinet for entertaining, or searching for the perfect gift, now's the time to discover what thousands of UK consumers already know. Order your first bottle today (order now) and taste the difference that genuine innovation makes. Your dairy-free drinks just got a serious upgrade.
FAQs
Q: Is there a vegan version of Baileys available in the UK?
A: Baileys Almande was the official vegan version, but it's been discontinued in the UK and most of Europe. However, several excellent vegan Baileys alternatives are now available, including Cremaura, which many consider superior to the original in taste and sustainability.
Q: What is the best vegan Baileys alternative?
A: Cremaura is widely regarded as the best vegan Baileys alternative in the UK. It's made with tequila and coconut milk, offers three flavours (Coffee with Caramel, Strawberry with Rose and Spiced Cinnamon), and is completely allergen-free including gluten, nuts, soy, and dairy. It's available to buy online directly from cremaura.com.
Q: Where can I buy vegan cream liqueur in the UK?
A: Vegan cream liqueurs are available from select supermarkets like M&S and Waitrose, though stock is inconsistent. The most reliable option is buying directly from brand websites like Cremaura, which offers free UK delivery and guarantees all flavours in stock year-round.
Q: Is vegan Baileys gluten-free?
A: It depends on the brand. Baileys Almande contained gluten, as do many oat milk-based alternatives. Cremaura is completely gluten-free because it uses coconut milk instead of oat milk, making it suitable for those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Q: What does vegan Baileys taste like?
A: Quality vegan cream liqueurs like Cremaura offer smooth, creamy texture with rich flavour profiles. The coconut milk base provides natural sweetness and velvety consistency, whilst the tequila creates a cleaner finish than whisky-based options. Most people find premium vegan alternatives indistinguishable from or better than traditional cream liqueurs.