Chocolate Guinness Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting

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Chocolate Guinness Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting

Introduction

Chocolate Guinness Cake is a rich, decadent dessert with deep cocoa flavors enhanced by the malty bitterness of Guinness stout. Paired with a silky Baileys buttercream frosting, this cake is a perfect treat for chocolate and Irish cream lovers alike. Inspired by traditional Irish flavors, this cake is a popular choice for St. Patrick’s Day, birthdays, or any special occasion where indulgence is the goal.

History of Chocolate Guinness Cake

Guinness has been a staple in Irish culture since 1759, when Arthur Guinness started brewing in Dublin. Over the years, Guinness beer has been incorporated into various recipes, from stews to cakes. The dark, malty notes of Guinness enhance chocolate’s natural depth, making it a perfect pairing in desserts. This cake, with its dense, moist crumb, is often compared to a rich chocolate fudge cake.

Benefits of Chocolate Guinness Cake

While this cake is undeniably indulgent, it also has some surprising benefits:

  • Antioxidants – Cocoa contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that may support heart health.
  • Guinness Beer Benefits – Guinness contains iron and is lower in calories than some other beers.
  • Mood Booster – Chocolate is known to release endorphins, enhancing mood and reducing stress.
  • Baileys Cream Liqueur – Adds a smooth, creamy texture and a unique Irish cream flavor.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup (240ml) Guinness stout
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
  • ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • ⅔ cup (160ml) sour cream
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking soda

For the Baileys Buttercream Frosting:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar
  • 4 tablespoons (60ml) Baileys Irish Cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. In a saucepan, heat Guinness and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and whisk in cocoa powder and sugar.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add this mixture to the Guinness mixture, stirring until combined.
  4. In another bowl, sift together flour and baking soda. Gently fold this into the wet ingredients until fully combined.

Step 2: Baking the Cake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
  2. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Making the Baileys Buttercream Frosting

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
  3. Pour in Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Assembling the Cake

  1. Once the cake has cooled, spread the Baileys buttercream frosting evenly over the top.
  2. For extra flair, dust with cocoa powder or drizzle with melted chocolate.

Cake Formation and Decoration

  • Layered Cake: If you want to make a layered cake, double the cake recipe and stack two layers with buttercream in between.
  • Cupcakes: The batter can be divided into cupcake liners and baked for 18–22 minutes.
  • Garnishes: Shavings of dark chocolate, cocoa powder, or a drizzle of Baileys glaze can add an elegant touch.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 480
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 62g
  • Fats: 22g
  • Sugar: 45g
  • Iron: 8% of Daily Value

Who Loves This Cake?

This cake is adored by chocolate lovers, beer enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys rich, moist desserts. It’s a favorite among:

  • Guinness fans – Those who love the malty depth of stout.
  • Chocolate enthusiasts – Deep cocoa flavor makes it irresistible.
  • Irish dessert lovers – A staple for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
  • Baking aficionados – A great recipe to test and refine baking skills.

Conclusion

Chocolate Guinness Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting is a show-stopping dessert that blends deep, rich flavors with smooth, creamy sweetness. Whether served for a holiday, special occasion, or simply as an indulgent treat, this cake is sure to impress. If you love chocolate, stout, and a hint of Irish cream, this dessert is for you!

Would you like variations of this recipe, such as a gluten-free version?

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