Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
Table of Contents
There’s something truly magical about being in the kitchen on a rainy afternoon, the kind where you can hear the gentle pitter-patter against your window and feel the warmth of the oven softly humming. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s as comforting as a big, fuzzy blanket on a cold night — the Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a love letter to the simple joys of life, filled with layers of rich, chocolatey goodness and a creamy, dreamy frosting that’s like a sweet hug from an old friend.
Baking this cake takes me back to my childhood, when weekends were spent at my grandma’s house. Her kitchen was always alive with the scent of something baking, and I remember the delight in her eyes every time she let me lick the spoon. What makes this cake special is not only its deep, velvety chocolate flavor but also the subtle hint of Guinness that adds a twist of sophistication. Meanwhile, the Irish Buttercream brings a smooth, luscious finish that whispers tales of Irish countryside and cozy family gatherings.
You’ll find this cake to be a celebration of togetherness, a centerpiece for birthdays, or just a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea on a quiet afternoon. The ingredients are simple and accessible, proving that you don’t need anything fancy to create something utterly beautiful. This is more than just a recipe — it’s a reminder of the warmth and love that comes from homemade cooking. So, let’s put on an apron, roll up our sleeves, and fill our homes with the aroma of nostalgia and comfort.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
These Guinness Chocolate Cakes bring a unique twist to traditional desserts, making them a delightful addition to any gathering or a special treat for yourself. Here’s why they deserve a spot on your table:
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of dark chocolate and Guinness creates a depth of flavor that’s both indulgent and sophisticated. The beer enhances the chocolate, providing a slightly bitter undertone that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Nostalgic Appeal: This cake evokes memories of family gatherings and special occasions, perfect for creating new memories with loved ones. The rich aroma of chocolate and the sweet, familiar scent of homemade buttercream can transport you back to simpler times.
- Versatile Delight: Whether as a centerpiece for a celebration or a simple dessert, this cake can fit into any occasion seamlessly. Dress it up with chocolate curls for a birthday or serve it plain with a cup of coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet taste, this cake is straightforward to prepare, even for those who are new to baking. The steps are simple and require no advanced techniques, making it accessible to everyone.
- Irish Twist: The Irish Buttercream adds a unique cultural touch, inviting you to explore flavors from the Emerald Isle. The use of Irish cream in the frosting not only enhances its richness but also pays homage to traditional Irish flavors.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up this delightful cake, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade baking.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining your dry ingredients without making a mess. A wide rim can help prevent spills when stirring.
- Medium Bowl: Perfect for whisking together wet ingredients to achieve a smooth mixture. Ensure it’s deep enough to allow vigorous whisking.
- Electric Mixer: Helps in creating the light, fluffy texture of the buttercream with ease. An essential tool for achieving the perfect consistency without tiring your arm.
- 8-inch Cake Pans: Ideal for baking the cake layers evenly and ensuring they come out perfectly. Non-stick pans or lining with parchment paper can make removal easier.
- Spatula: Essential for gently folding ingredients and scraping every last bit of batter into pans. A silicone spatula works best for flexibility and heat resistance.
- Offset Spatula: Key for spreading frosting evenly and achieving that beautiful ‘naked’ cake look. It helps in smoothing the frosting and creating clean edges.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
For the Guinness Chocolate Cake:
- 1 3/4 cups (222 grams) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (64 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup (170 grams) sour cream or plain full-fat yogurt, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup fresh vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup Guinness beer
For the Irish Buttercream:
- 4 sticks (454 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
- 6 cups (750 grams) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons Irish cream, such as Bailey’s
For the Chocolate Drip:
- 4 ounces (113 grams) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Sprinkles or chocolate curls for topping, optional
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease two 8-inch wide x 3-inch deep cake pans and line them with parchment paper rounds. This ensures your cakes will release easily after baking.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Make sure there are no clumps, as this will ensure your cake has a smooth texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla, and Guinness beer. This combination will create a rich, moist batter that enhances the chocolate flavor.
Stir Together: Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans using a spatula to level the tops. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures the cakes are fully cooked.
Cool and Prepare for Frosting: Cool the cakes in their pans for about 30 minutes before carefully turning them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely. If possible, freeze the cakes while you prepare the buttercream. This makes them easier to frost.
Prepare the Buttercream: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, then the Irish cream. Beat on high speed until very light, fluffy, and smooth, about 3 minutes.
Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a cake stand. Frost the top of the cake generously. Top with the other cake layer, flat side up.
Apply a Crumb Coat: Spread a very thin layer of frosting all over the cake for a crumb coat. Return the cake to the fridge or freezer until firm. This helps lock in crumbs and creates a smooth surface for the final layer of frosting.
Final Frosting: Spread the remaining frosting all over the cake. Use your offset spatula to create a smooth, even finish. Refrigerate the cake while you prepare the chocolate drip.
Prepare the Chocolate Drip: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. In a small pan, bring the heavy cream to a simmer, then pour it over the chocolate. Let sit for a few minutes, then stir until smooth.
Decorate with Ganache: Allow the ganache to cool until it thickens but is still pourable. Carefully pour some ganache over the top of the chilled cake, spreading it evenly. Add sprinkles or curls before the ganache sets for a festive touch.
Difficulty: Medium • Cuisine: Irish • Preparation Time: 30 minutes • Cooking Time: 40 minutes • Total Time: 2 hours • Calories: 650 per serving • Servings: 12
Note: For best results, chill the cake briefly after applying the crumb coat to ensure a smooth final frosting.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
This Guinness Chocolate Cake not only promises delightful flavors but also comes with some surprising benefits:
- Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants, cocoa powder adds deep chocolate flavor while providing heart-healthy benefits. It’s known for its ability to improve mood and cognitive function.
- Guinness Beer: Adds a rich, malty flavor to the cake while the alcohol evaporates during baking, leaving just a hint of sophistication. It’s a unique ingredient that sets this cake apart from traditional chocolate cakes.
- Sour Cream: Provides moisture and a tender crumb, ensuring the cake stays soft and flavorful. It’s also a great source of calcium and protein.
- Irish Cream: Infuses the buttercream with a unique flavor, adding richness without overpowering sweetness. It contributes a creamy texture and delightful aroma.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
This cake is a versatile companion to various beverages and dishes, making it perfect for any occasion:
- Irish Coffee: The rich, creamy flavors of Irish coffee perfectly complement the cake’s chocolate and Irish cream notes. It enhances the cake’s Irish theme and adds an extra layer of indulgence.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the cake’s richness, creating a classic dessert pairing. The cold ice cream balances the warm flavors of the cake.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries to add a pop of color and a hint of tartness. Berries provide a refreshing balance to the cake’s sweetness.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
To keep your Guinness Chocolate Cake fresh and delicious, store it covered with a cake keeper at cool room temperature for 2-3 days. The frosting acts as a protective seal, keeping the cake moist. Avoid using plastic wrap, as it can cause condensation and affect the frosting’s texture. If you have leftovers, consider transforming them into cake pops by crumbling cake pieces, mixing in a bit of frosting, and shaping them into balls for a delightful mini treat.
Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and indulge in a quick, delicious treat.
Baking this cake isn’t just about the end result; it’s about the moments we share in the kitchen and the joy of creating something beautiful with love. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon, this cake is a reminder of the warmth and comfort of homemade cooking. Gather your loved ones, share a slice, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
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Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Generously grease two 8-inch wide x 3-inch deep cake pans and line with parchment paper rounds.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla, and beer.
- Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in their pans for 30 minutes before carefully turning them out onto a cooling rack or wire rack to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or hand mixer to beat the butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, then the Irish cream. Beat the mixture on high speed until very light, fluffy, and smooth, about 3 minutes.
- Place one cake layer on a cake stand or serving plate. Frost the top of the cake generously.
- Top with the other cake layer, flat side up.
- With an offset spatula, spread a very thin layer of frosting all over the cake. This layer is a crumb coat.
- Spread the remaining frosting all over the cake. If desired, focus the frosting on the top to maintain the ‘naked’ look.
- Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. In a small pan, bring the heavy cream to a simmer then immediately remove from heat and pour over chocolate.
- Allow to cool until it has thickened but is still pourable, about 10 minutes.
- Carefully pour some of the ganache over the top of the chilled cake. Use an offset spatula to quickly smooth the ganache over the top of the cake before it sets.
- Before the ganache fully sets, add sprinkles, chocolate curls, or any other decor you like.
