why make this recipe
This cake is rich, moist, and full of deep chocolate taste. The Guinness adds a slight malty note that makes the cake feel special. The Irish buttercream on top adds a creamy, boozy touch that many people enjoy. Make this cake for a celebration or when you want a warm, simple dessert.
introduction
This recipe uses easy ingredients and clear steps, so even a new baker can make it. If you like classic comfort desserts, you may also enjoy a hearty pasta dish that pairs well with simple cakes like this: a creamy chicken Parmesan with Alfredo sauce.
how to make Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
Follow the steps below to bake the cake and make the buttercream. Read all steps first, then start.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup Guinness beer
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup Irish cream liqueur
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the Guinness beer and cocoa powder. Whisk until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, oil, vanilla, and buttermilk to the Guinness mixture. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the Irish buttercream, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and Irish cream, beating until fluffy.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, frost with the Irish buttercream and serve.
how to serve Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
Slice the cake and serve on dessert plates. A small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream works well. Serve at room temperature so the buttercream stays soft.
how to store Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
- Room temperature: Cover the cake lightly and keep it up to 1 day.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let the cake come to room temperature before eating.
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cakes wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge, then frost after thawing.
tips to make Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
- Measure ingredients with care. Use level cups for flour and sugar.
- Let the cakes cool fully before frosting to avoid melting the buttercream.
- If your buttercream is too thin, add more powdered sugar. If it is too stiff, add a little milk.
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for a smoother batter and frosting.
variation (if any)
- For a non-alcoholic buttercream, replace the Irish cream with a teaspoon of vanilla and 1-2 tablespoons of milk.
- Add a teaspoon of instant espresso to the cocoa and Guinness mix to boost chocolate flavor.
- Make cupcakes instead of rounds; bake 18-22 minutes at the same temperature.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different beer instead of Guinness?
A: Yes. A dark stout works best for the rich flavor, but a porter or another dark beer can work too.
Q: Can I make the cake ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can bake the layers a day ahead, wrap them tight, and frost the next day.
Q: Is Irish cream needed in the buttercream?
A: No. Irish cream gives flavor but you can use milk or vanilla for a non-alcoholic version.
Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and moist chocolate cake infused with Guinness and topped with creamy Irish buttercream.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Guinness beer
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup Irish cream liqueur
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the Guinness beer and cocoa powder. Whisk until smooth.
- In another bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, oil, vanilla, and buttermilk to the Guinness mixture. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the Irish buttercream, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and Irish cream, beating until fluffy.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, frost with the Irish buttercream and serve.
Notes
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra delight.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg