Delicious Irish Fifteens: Easy No-Bake Treat in 15 Minutes

The rich aroma of sweetened condensed milk mixed with the crunch of digestive biscuits fills the air as I whip up a batch of no-bake Irish Fifteens. This delightful treat captures the essence of home baking without the need for an oven, making it a lifesaver for busy days or last-minute gatherings. With just 15 simple ingredients, this nostalgic dessert from Northern Ireland beautifully combines the chewy bliss of marshmallows and glacé cherries, all enveloped in fluffy desiccated coconut.

I first discovered Irish Fifteens during a cozy afternoon tea at a friend’s house, and instantly fell in love with their simplicity and charming flavor. As I enjoyed each bite, I realized how versatile they could be—everything from chocolate chips to a dash of whiskey could take them to new heights! So whether you’re looking for a sweet pick-me-up after a hectic day or a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering, these little gems will please both family and friends alike. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Irish Fifteens a must-try?

Deliciously Easy: This no-bake recipe takes just 15 minutes to whip up, perfect for busy schedules.

Family-Friendly: Everyone will adore these sweet treats, making them ideal for gatherings or afternoon snacks.

Endless Variations: Customize with options like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for a unique spin.

Coconut Coating: The fluffy desiccated coconut adds an irresistible finish and classic appeal.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients, these treats are as kind to your wallet as they are to your taste buds.

Give these delicious Irish Fifteens a try and impress your loved ones with this easy dessert!

Irish Fifteens Ingredients

For the Base

  • Digestive Biscuits (15) – The crunchy foundation of this treat; swap with graham crackers for a twist!
  • Glacé Cherries (15, halved) – Bursting with sweetness; dried cranberries can add a lovely tartness instead.
  • Large Marshmallows (15, quartered) – They make the treat delightfully chewy; mini marshmallows work well if you prefer.

For the Binding

  • Sweetened Condensed Milk (150-180 ml) – This rich ingredient binds everything together beautifully; use evaporated milk for a lighter touch.

For the Coating

  • Desiccated Coconut (100-150 grams) – Adds a fluffy texture and nostalgic flavor; you can skip it for a coconut-free version.

Get ready to enjoy the charming flavor of Irish Fifteens in no time!

How to Make Irish Fifteens

  1. Crush the digestive biscuits or graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or a rolling pin until they resemble sand. This will create a solid base for your Irish Fifteens.

  2. Mix in a large bowl the crushed biscuits, halved glacé cherries, and quartered marshmallows until they are evenly combined. This colorful medley adds sweetness and texture to your treat.

  3. Stir gradually in 150 ml of sweetened condensed milk. Mix well, adding more if needed to ensure everything binds nicely together. The mixture should feel sticky but not overly wet.

  4. Prepare a flat surface by laying cling film on it, then sprinkle desiccated coconut in the center, creating a little nest for your mixture.

  5. Transfer the blended mixture onto the coconut and shape it into a log about 6 cm in diameter. The goal is to make it easy to slice later while holding all the ingredients together.

  6. Coat the log with additional desiccated coconut, ensuring it’s fully covered for that signature finish. Wrap it tightly in the cling film and place it in the fridge; let it chill for at least 4 hours until firm.

  7. Slice the chilled log into 15 delightful pieces. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge where they will keep fresh for up to a week.

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Delicious Irish Fifteens: Easy No-Bake Treat in 15 Minutes

Irish Fifteens Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful treats to suit your taste!

  • Chocolatey Delight: Add in chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent twist that complements the sweetness wonderfully.

  • Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for an added crunch and a nutty flavor explosion that balances the sweetness.

  • Dried Fruit Medley: Swap out glacé cherries for a mix of dried fruits like apricots or raisins, adding chewy textures and fruity bursts of flavor.

  • Whiskey Infusion: Drizzle a little Irish whiskey into the mixture for a sophisticated hint that captures the spirit of Irish culture perfectly.

  • Fun Flavored Marshmallows: Use flavored marshmallows, like strawberry or coconut, to give the treats a surprising flavor twist and a colorful appeal.

  • Fruity Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens up every bite, making them irresistibly zesty.

  • Nut Butter Swirl: Combine a few tablespoons of creamy peanut or almond butter into the mixture for an added richness while providing a lovely, nutty aroma.

  • Coconut-Free Version: Leave out the desiccated coconut and coat these treats in crushed Graham crackers instead for a different texture while still keeping those classic flavors.

Embrace the fun of substitution and make these Irish Fifteens truly your own!

Expert Tips for Irish Fifteens

Binding Balance: Ensure the mixture has enough sweetened condensed milk for proper binding to maintain shape and texture.

Chill Well: Allow your Irish Fifteens to chill thoroughly in the fridge to achieve the ideal firm and chewy consistency before slicing.

Flavor Boost: Add a splash of Irish whiskey or chocolate chips for an exciting twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Perfect Slicing: Use a sharp knife to slice the log into even pieces for a polished presentation; warm the knife slightly for cleaner cuts.

Coconut Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of coconut, consider omitting it completely for a different texture while still enjoying all the flavors.

Storage Tips for Irish Fifteens

Fridge: Keep the Irish Fifteens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week to maintain their chewy texture and freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid storing them at room temperature, as they may lose their firmness and become overly soft.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these no-bake treats; simply slice and serve chilled for the best experience!

What to Serve with Irish Fifteens?

Looking for delightful pairings to elevate your Irish Fifteens experience? Here are some perfect accompaniments that will make your dessert spread unforgettable.

  • Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, brightening up each bite.

  • Rich Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce enhances flavor and adds a luxurious touch for those with a sweet tooth.

  • Creamy Custard: A silky custard brings a lovely creaminess that perfectly balances the chewy texture of the Fifteens.

  • Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of chamomile or mint tea not only complements the flavors but also soothes the senses during tea time.

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy scoop brings a delightful fusion of temperatures that makes this treat even more satisfying.

  • Irish Coffee: This warm, boozy drink pairs wonderfully, complementing the sweetness of the dessert while offering a cozy experience.

  • Chocolate Chip Cookies: The additional crunch and chocolate will create a delightful medley that satisfies every dessert lover.

  • Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this topping adds a lovely contrast to the chewy Irish Fifteens and makes them even more indulgent.

Enjoy pairing these treats with your Irish Fifteens for an unforgettable dessert experience!

Make Ahead Options

Irish Fifteens are perfect for busy home cooks who thrive on meal prep! You can prepare the base mixture of digestive biscuits, glacé cherries, and marshmallows up to 24 hours in advance—just combine these ingredients and refrigerate them tightly wrapped in cling film. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply shape the mixture into a log, coat it in desiccated coconut, and chill for at least 4 hours until firm. The combination of flavors stays just as delicious with pre-prepped components, ensuring you have a quick treat for any occasion. Slicing into the chilled log just before serving makes for an effortlessly satisfying dessert that everyone will love!

Delicious Irish Fifteens: Easy No-Bake Treat in 15 Minutes

Irish Fifteens Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe glacé cherries for Irish Fifteens?
Absolutely! When selecting glacé cherries, look for those that are shiny and vibrant in color, without any signs of dark spots. This ensures they’re fresh and will add a lovely pop of sweetness to your treats. Avoid any that appear dry or have an off smell, as these can detract from the overall flavor.

What is the best way to store Irish Fifteens?
To keep your Irish Fifteens fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This helps maintain their chewy texture and sweetness. If you want to keep them longer, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and freezing them can extend their shelf life for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before indulging!

Can I freeze Irish Fifteens for later?
Very! To freeze your Irish Fifteens, first wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and allow them to thaw in the fridge for a few hours. You’ll have delicious, irresistible treats ready to go!

What should I do if my mixture isn’t binding properly?
If the mixture isn’t holding together as it should, don’t worry! Simply add an additional tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk at a time until you achieve the desired consistency. It’s important that the mixture feels sticky but not overly wet; you can also give it a gentle stir to ensure everything is fully combined. If you find it’s still crumbly, pressing the mixture more firmly together while shaping it into a log can help, too!

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of when making Irish Fifteens?
Absolutely! Since Irish Fifteens contain marshmallows, which may have gelatin and are often processed in facilities that handle nuts, check the packaging for any allergy warnings. Additionally, if you’re avoiding dairy, you could experiment with plant-based sweetened condensed milk alternatives. Always keep an eye on ingredient labels to cater to your specific dietary needs and those of your loved ones!

Irish Fifteens

Delicious Irish Fifteens: Easy No-Bake Treat in 15 Minutes

These Irish Fifteens are delightful no-bake treats made with sweetened condensed milk and crunchy biscuits, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 15 pieces
Course: DESSERTS
Cuisine: Irish
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 15 biscuits Digestive Biscuits Swap with graham crackers for a twist.
  • 15 pieces Glacé Cherries Halved; dried cranberries can be a substitute.
  • 15 pieces Large Marshmallows Quartered; mini marshmallows can be used.
For the Binding
  • 150-180 ml Sweetened Condensed Milk Use evaporated milk for a lighter touch.
For the Coating
  • 100-150 grams Desiccated Coconut Skip for a coconut-free version.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Rolling Pin
  • large bowl
  • cling film

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Crush the digestive biscuits or graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin until they resemble sand.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the crushed biscuits, halved glacé cherries, and quartered marshmallows until evenly combined.
  3. Gradually stir in 150 ml of sweetened condensed milk until everything binds nicely together.
  4. Prepare a flat surface by laying cling film on it, then sprinkle desiccated coconut in the center.
  5. Transfer the blended mixture onto the coconut and shape it into a log about 6 cm in diameter.
  6. Coat the log with additional desiccated coconut, ensuring it’s fully covered. Wrap it tightly in cling film and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
  7. Slice the chilled log into 15 pieces and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 15mgPotassium: 40mgSugar: 10gVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating