Whether you sit in the goes-all-out Valentine’s camp or you like to save the date for low-key plans, we can all admit that as the drab February days roll past, V Day offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in a little fun with our favourite people.

Maybe it’s a friends dinner party a la Come Dine With Me, or a chance to mix up the usual collapse-on-sofa boxset binge with your SO… Either way, it’s just really nice to have an excuse to clink glasses this month.

If you’re looking for an affordable, unique twist on the festivities, Baileys Original Irish Cream makes more than just a pleasant tipple and should be firmly on your hosting radar.

One bottle goes a long way: whether used as a traditional tipple, mixed in cocktails or worked into a five-star dessert using this dreamy recipe below, you can put your own spin on the holiday with this versatile treat.

Taking just 10 minutes to cook to perfection, this Baileys choco mousse* is the perfect sweet treat to round off the celebrations – and it makes four servings (so double up for a dinner party, or make ‘treat yourself’ your true mission).

You’ll need: 200ml Baileys Original, 2 medium eggs (separated), 150g chopped dark chocolate, 1 tsp unsalted butter, 250ml double cream and chocolate shavings to garnish. Screenshot the recipe below to elevate your hosting skills this Valentine’s…

• Step one: Melt the chocolate, allow to cool slightly, then beat in the egg yolks and butter

• Step two: Lightly whip the cream and Baileys, then fold half into the chocolate mix

• Step three: Whisk the egg whites until just stiff, fold with the chocolate mixture and add pieces of chocolate until it melts

• Step four: Spoon half the chocolate mousse into four glasses, followed by some chocolate shavings and half the cream

• Step five: Repeat the layers and top with the remaining chocolate shavings

• Step six: Refrigerate for three hours - then gather your loved ones for a scrumptious treat

And if you’re looking for more inspiration, there are a whole host of wow-worthy recipes on the Baileys website.

Whether swirled into cocktails or whipped into desserts, Baileys is the perfect way to celebrate your loved ones this Valentine’s. 

Please drink responsibly. Please do not forward this article to anyone under the age of 18.

*Allergies: eggs, milk