Rich, moist, and decadent, Guinness Chocolate Cake combines the deep flavors of stout beer with rich cocoa for a dessert that’s not only delicious but also unforgettable. The Guinness adds a unique complexity to the cake, balancing the sweetness with subtle notes of bitterness and a deep, malty flavor. Topped with a creamy frosting, this cake is perfect for special occasions like birthdays, St. Patrick’s Day, or whenever you're craving a chocolatey indulgence with a twist. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe and learn how to make this show-stopping dessert, along with tips, substitutions, and variations.
What is a Guinness Chocolate Cake?
Guinness Chocolate Cake is a luxurious chocolate cake made with Guinness stout, which enhances the chocolate flavor and gives the cake a rich, moist texture. The deep, malty notes from the stout complement the sweetness of the chocolate, resulting in a well-balanced dessert. The cake is often paired with cream cheese frosting or whipped ganache for a beautiful contrast in both flavor and texture. This dessert is particularly popular around St. Patrick’s Day but is delicious enough to be enjoyed year-round.
Ingredients List for Guinness Chocolate Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (240 ml) Guinness stout beer – Adds moisture and depth of flavor to the cake.
- 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter – For richness and moisture.
- ¾ cup (65 g) unsweetened cocoa powder – The star ingredient for a deep chocolate flavor.
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake.
- ¾ cup (180 ml) sour cream – Adds moisture and tang to balance the richness.
- 2 large eggs – For structure and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the cake.
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour – The base for the cake's structure.
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking soda – Ensures the cake rises properly.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened – Creamy and tangy, the perfect pairing for the rich chocolate cake.
- ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness to the frosting.
- 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the frosting's flavor.
- Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness.
For Decoration (Optional):
- Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder – To dust over the top for extra elegance.
- Crushed chocolate cookies or biscuits – Adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy frosting.
Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ins and Variations
- Espresso powder – Add 1 teaspoon to the batter for an extra boost of chocolate flavor.
- Orange zest – Add to the frosting for a citrusy twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Chocolate chips or chunks – Fold into the batter for an even richer chocolate experience.
- Baileys Irish Cream – Add 1-2 tablespoons to the frosting for a boozy, Irish twist.
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of Guinness Chocolate Cake lies in its flexibility. Here are some substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free sour cream and cream cheese for the frosting.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
- Other Beers: While Guinness is traditional, you can experiment with other stouts or porters for a different flavor profile.
- Ganache Topping: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a chocolate ganache by heating ½ cup heavy cream and pouring it over 8 oz of chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This will help the cakes come out cleanly after baking.
Step 2: Heat the Guinness and Butter
In a medium saucepan, combine the Guinness and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and whisk in the cocoa powder until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually stir in the slightly cooled Guinness mixture until combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake, including the sides. For a rustic look, you can leave the sides bare and just frost the top.
Step 9: Decorate (Optional)
If desired, decorate the top with chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or crushed chocolate cookies for added texture.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice and serve your Guinness Chocolate Cake at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of Guinness for the ultimate treat.
How to Cook Guinness Chocolate Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Preparing the Pans: Properly grease and line the cake pans to ensure easy removal.
- Step 2: Mixing Ingredients: Heat the Guinness and butter, then combine with the cocoa powder and wet ingredients before gently folding in the dry mixture.
- Step 3: Baking: Keep an eye on the cake during baking. It’s done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Step 4: Frosting: Wait for the cake to cool fully before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough, dense cake. Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, stop mixing.
- Frosting a Warm Cake: If the cake is still warm when you apply the frosting, it will melt and slide off. Be patient and let the cake cool completely.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Using parchment ensures that the cake will come out cleanly from the pans, preventing any breakage or sticking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Guinness Chocolate Cake
Guinness Chocolate Cake is best served at room temperature to allow the flavors of the chocolate and stout to fully develop. It’s perfect on its own but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Presentation Ideas for Guinness Chocolate Cake
- Dust with Cocoa: For a simple, elegant look, dust the top with a little unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Chocolate Shavings: Add some chocolate curls or shavings on top of the frosting for a beautiful finish.
- Whipped Cream Topping: If you’re serving this cake for a special occasion, pipe swirls of whipped cream around the edges and add a few chocolate sprinkles or crushed nuts for texture.
Guinness Chocolate Cake Recipe Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature to ensure smooth blending.
- Sifting the Cocoa: Sift the cocoa powder before adding it to the Guinness and butter to prevent lumps.
- Chilling the Cake: If you’re not serving the cake immediately, store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just frost the cake before serving.
Q: Can I substitute another beer for Guinness?
A: While Guinness adds a distinctive flavor, you can substitute any stout or porter in this recipe. Avoid lighter beers, as they won’t impart the same richness.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I make cupcakes instead of a full cake?
A: Absolutely! You can turn this batter into cupcakes. Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Q: How do I prevent the cake from sinking in the middle?
A: Make sure not to overmix the batter and avoid opening the oven door too early while baking, as these can both cause the cake to sink.
Conclusion
This Guinness Chocolate Cake is a rich, moist, and flavorful dessert that will impress at any gathering. The combination of dark stout beer and chocolate creates a unique depth of flavor, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy, creamy contrast. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just indulging in a decadent treat, this cake is a must-try. With its simple yet elegant presentation and unbeatable taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy every bite!
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Guinness Chocolate Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Guinness Chocolate Cake is a decadent and moist dessert made with Guinness stout, which enhances the rich chocolate flavor. This cake pairs perfectly with a creamy frosting, such as cream cheese or buttercream, making it a luxurious treat for any occasion. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or a St. Patrick’s Day celebration!
Ingredients
- Guinness stout
- Unsalted butter
- Cocoa powder
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Sour cream
- Vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- Cream cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy cream
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare cake pans with parchment paper.
- Heat Guinness and butter, then whisk in cocoa powder until smooth.
- In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat eggs and sugar, then mix in sour cream and vanilla.
- Slowly add the Guinness mixture, then fold in the dry ingredients.
- Pour the batter into the pans and bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla, then add heavy cream and beat until smooth. Spread over the cooled cake.
Notes
- Guinness adds depth and richness to the chocolate flavor without being overpowering.
- The cake can be made in layers or as a bundt cake.
- Store leftover cake in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 250mg
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