Guinness chocolate cake with Irish buttercream is more than dessert it’s a love letter written in deep cocoa and silky cream. One bite and you’re wrapped in warmth, richness, and indulgence. If you’re craving something unforgettable, this cake will linger long after the last crumb.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent flavor fusion: The dark stout enhances the cocoa, giving the cake a bold richness that’s deeply satisfying.
- Velvety Irish buttercream: The fluffy frosting, subtly infused with Irish cream or whiskey, elevates this dessert from delicious to unforgettable.
- Moist and dense texture: Guinness helps lock in moisture, creating a cake that’s both dense and tender.
- Perfect for any occasion: From birthdays to holidays or Sunday dinners, this cake always fits.
- Freezer-friendly and make-ahead: Store it with ease and enjoy fresh slices for days.
Detailed Ingredients and Instructions
Cake Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Large eggs
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Pure vanilla extract
- Guinness stout beer
Buttercream Ingredients
- Unsalted Irish butter (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Irish cream liqueur or Irish whiskey
- Pinch of salt
- Heavy cream (optional, for consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven and prepare your cake pans with parchment and a light coat of butter or oil. This ensures easy release and intact layers. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly. - Cream Butter and Sugars:
In another bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This aeration gives the cake a tender crumb. - Add Eggs and Sour Cream:
One at a time, beat in the eggs. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract. The sour cream adds moisture and slight tang that complements the stout. - Incorporate Guinness:
Slowly pour in the Guinness, mixing gently to combine. Don’t worry if the batter appears thin—it’s supposed to be rich and pourable. - Combine Wet and Dry:
Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the crumb tender. - Bake:
Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely on wire racks. - Make the Irish Buttercream:
Beat Irish butter until creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar and a pinch of salt. Once incorporated, mix in Irish cream or whiskey. Adjust consistency with heavy cream if needed. - Assemble and Frost:
Level the cooled cake layers if needed. Spread a generous layer of buttercream between the layers and all over the top and sides. Smooth with a spatula or leave rustic swirls for charm.
Tips, Variations, and Storage Options
Pro Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature. This helps them blend more smoothly and evenly, giving the cake a better texture.
- Don’t Skip the Sift: Sifting cocoa powder and flour helps avoid clumps and ensures a uniform batter.
- Let the Guinness Settle: Pour the Guinness slowly to release carbonation. This prevents the batter from becoming overly foamy and helps maintain the perfect consistency.
- Cool Before Frosting: Always allow your cakes to cool completely before adding the Irish buttercream. Warm cake can melt the frosting, making it runny.
- Chill the Cake Before Serving: If you have time, refrigerate the assembled cake for about an hour before serving. This sets the buttercream and enhances flavor cohesion.
Delicious Variations
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Add a homemade salted caramel drizzle between layers or over the top for extra indulgence.
- Dark Chocolate Ganache: Spread a layer of ganache on top of the buttercream for a glossy, luxurious finish.
- Irish Coffee Twist: Mix a shot of strong espresso into the batter along with the Guinness to give the cake a bold mocha note.
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cayenne to the dry ingredients for a warm, spicy undertone.
Frosting Alternatives
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the Irish buttercream with a tangy cream cheese frosting for a rich contrast.
- Mocha Buttercream: Add a tablespoon of instant espresso to your buttercream to infuse it with deep coffee notes that complement the stout.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days if your environment is cool and dry.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze individual slices or the whole frosted cake for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a professional kitchen to make this stunning cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: At least two one for dry and one for wet ingredients.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugars and making the buttercream silky smooth.
- Cake Pans: Two or three round cake pans, depending on your desired layer height.
- Offset Spatula: For smooth and even buttercream application.
- Cooling Racks: To let your cakes cool completely and avoid soggy bottoms.
Optional extras like a cake turntable and piping tips can elevate your presentation, but they’re not required for delicious results.
Related Recipes
If you love the depth and richness of this guinness chocolate cake with irish buttercream, here are a few more desserts that might steal your heart:
- Baileys Chocolate Mousse: Light, fluffy, and infused with Irish cream, this mousse is a no-bake crowd-pleaser perfect for dinner parties.
- Vanilla Bean St. Patrick’s Day Cookies: Soft, buttery, and fragrant with real vanilla bean, these festive cookies deliver sweet comfort with a playful holiday twist, finished with a touch of sparkle for irresistible charm.
- Irish Cream Cupcakes: A portable version of this cake with fluffy Irish cream frosting and a moist, dark chocolate base.
- St. Patrick’s Day Cookieshttps://moganoga.com/st-patricks-day-cookies/: These buttery sugar cookies are tinted with festive green, kissed with vanilla, and topped with shimmering sprinkles. Soft in the center and crisp at the edges, they bring a little luck and a lot of joy to every bite.
- Salted Caramel Guinness Bundt Cake: A beautiful centerpiece cake that combines the deep flavor of stout with sweet, buttery caramel.
Pairing/Serving Suggestions
This guinness chocolate cake with irish buttercream isn’t just a dessert—it’s a full-on experience. To make it even more memorable, try these pairing and serving ideas that elevate every bite.
Drink Pairings
- A Fresh Pint of Guinness: Naturally, serving this cake with the same stout used in the batter creates a bold and harmonious flavor profile.
- Irish Coffee: A cozy combo of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and a layer of cream balances the sweetness of the cake with smooth warmth.
- Baileys on Ice: Simple and indulgent, Baileys Irish Cream over ice echoes the flavor of the buttercream in a refreshing way.
- Espresso or Strong Brewed Coffee: The bitter notes of coffee bring out the deep chocolate and highlight the cake’s richness.
Food Pairings
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The chill of classic vanilla ice cream offsets the dense, moist texture of the cake beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: Raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries bring brightness and tart contrast to every rich bite.
- Whipped Cream: A light dollop of unsweetened whipped cream adds airiness and balances the cake’s intensity.
- Dark Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle shavings on top of the buttercream for an elegant and flavorful touch.
Presentation Ideas
- Rustic Style: Leave the buttercream with swirling, imperfect textures and garnish with cocoa powder or chocolate curls.
- Layered Drama: Bake in multiple thin layers and alternate frosting and ganache for an eye-catching stack.
- Mini Cakes: Use a muffin tin or ramekins for individual servings, perfect for dinner parties or holiday platters.
- Themed Toppers: For St. Patrick’s Day, use green sprinkles or edible gold leaf. For birthdays, go with chocolate decorations or fresh flowers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers up to two days in advance and store them wrapped in the fridge. Frost the day you serve for best freshness.
Is Guinness necessary for this recipe?
Yes, the Guinness is essential for its unique bitter-malty flavor and moisture. However, you can substitute with another dark stout or porter in a pinch. For a non-alcoholic version, consider using a stout-flavored non-alcoholic beer or dark brewed coffee.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour substitute and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious.
Can I replace the Irish cream in the buttercream?
If you want a non-alcoholic version, swap Irish cream for Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer or a mix of vanilla and milk. It won’t be identical, but still creamy and flavorful.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It stays moist and flavorful for several days and freezes beautifully.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans?
Use parchment rounds in the bottom of each pan and grease the sides with butter or nonstick spray. Let cakes cool for 10 minutes in the pan before removing.
Nutrition Information
Please note that nutrition can vary slightly depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings per cake):
- Calories: 540
- Protein: 6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 62 grams
- Sugars: 42 grams
- Fat: 28 grams
- Saturated Fat: 16 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
- Sodium: 320 mg
The guinness chocolate cake with irish buttercream is a treat meant to be savored. While it’s rich, it also provides a satisfying indulgence perfect for special occasions.
Seasonal and Occasion Variations
One of the best things about guinness chocolate cake with irish buttercream is how beautifully it adapts to different seasons and celebrations. From cozy winter nights to festive holiday tables, it always fits the moment.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration
- Decorate with Green: Top the cake with green sprinkles, edible clovers, or even gold coin candies for a playful nod to the holiday.
- Serve with Irish Coffee: Pair slices with traditional Irish coffee or Baileys lattes for a complete themed dessert experience.
- Mini Shamrock Cakes: Use a shamrock-shaped pan or cookie cutter to make festive individual servings that wow at parties.
Winter and Christmas
- Add Spices: A hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove gives the cake a seasonal warmth perfect for December gatherings.
- Garnish with Sugared Cranberries: These add a pop of color and a tart counterbalance to the sweetness of the buttercream.
- Serve with Hot Cocoa: Pair with a rich hot chocolate or spiced tea for maximum comfort.
Autumn Twists
- Infuse with Pumpkin Spice: Blend in subtle pumpkin spice to complement the earthy tones of the Guinness.
- Drizzle with Maple Glaze: Add a thin maple glaze for sweetness and fall vibes.
- Top with Toasted Pecans: A crunchy topping adds texture and nutty flavor that fits perfectly with fall flavors.
Summer Gathering
- Serve Chilled: This cake is fantastic straight from the fridge on warm days.
- Pair with Berries: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries as garnish for a summer-fresh contrast.
- Whipped Cream Swirl: Replace heavy frosting with a light Irish cream whipped topping for a cooler, lighter finish.
Birthday or Special Occasions
- Personalized Decorations: Use piped buttercream letters, chocolate shards, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate to write names or messages.
- Layered Elegance: Go tall with 3 or 4 thin cake layers, alternating frosting and fillings like ganache or fruit jam for visual impact.
- Add a Sparkle: Use edible glitter or gold dust to give the cake that extra birthday sparkle.
No matter the time of year or reason to celebrate, this guinness chocolate cake with irish buttercream can be tailored to fit the mood.
My Recipe Tips
After making this recipe dozens of times, I’ve gathered a few tried-and-true tricks to make sure your cake turns out perfectly every single time.
- 1. Use Good Cocoa: Invest in high-quality Dutch-process cocoa. It delivers a deeper, more luxurious chocolate flavor that stands up to the stout beautifully.
- 2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you’ve combined your wet and dry ingredients, mix only until incorporated. Overmixing can create a dense, rubbery texture instead of the moist crumb you want.
- 3. Bake Evenly: Use cake strips around your pans or rotate them halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and flat layers—no domed tops or undercooked centers.
- 4. Level the Layers: For a bakery-worthy look, slice the tops of your cake layers with a serrated knife to even them out before frosting.
- 5. Chill the Frosting Slightly: If your buttercream is too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes. Then whip it again for a fluffy, pipeable texture.
- 6. Make it a Showstopper: Even if you’re not a pro decorator, use simple tricks—like a dusting of cocoa, chocolate curls, or piped stars around the edges—for an elegant finish that looks as good as it tastes.
- 7. Let Flavors Settle: This cake is even better the next day. The Guinness and cocoa deepen, the buttercream settles into the layers, and each slice becomes more irresistible.
Conclusion
Guinness chocolate cake with Irish buttercream is more than just dessert—it’s a celebration of bold flavor, Irish spirit, and homemade comfort. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday, a special someone, or simply because you need something rich and chocolatey in your life, this recipe never disappoints.
It combines the best of both worlds: the depth of a malty stout and the creamy sweetness of a signature Irish frosting. And with endless ways to customize, serve, and enjoy it, this cake will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
If this dessert captured your attention, dive deeper into more bold and creative baking recipes right here on the blog. Try it once, and you’ll understand why this cake has become a year-round favorite for so many.
Ingredients
All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Large eggs
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Pure vanilla extract
Guinness stout beer
Buttercream Ingredients
Unsalted Irish butter (softened)
Powdered sugar
Irish cream liqueur or Irish whiskey
Pinch of salt
Heavy cream (optional, for consistency)
Instructions
Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven and prepare your cake pans with parchment and a light coat of butter or oil. This ensures easy release and intact layers.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly.
Cream Butter and Sugars:
In another bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This aeration gives the cake a tender crumb.
Add Eggs and Sour Cream:
One at a time, beat in the eggs. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract. The sour cream adds moisture and slight tang that complements the stout.
Incorporate Guinness:
Slowly pour in the Guinness, mixing gently to combine. Don’t worry if the batter appears thin—it’s supposed to be rich and pourable.
Combine Wet and Dry:
Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the crumb tender.
Bake:
Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely on wire racks.
Make the Irish Buttercream:
Beat Irish butter until creamy. Slowly add powdered sugar and a pinch of salt. Once incorporated, mix in Irish cream or whiskey. Adjust consistency with heavy cream if needed.
Assemble and Frost:
Level the cooled cake layers if needed. Spread a generous layer of buttercream between the layers and all over the top and sides. Smooth with a spatula or leave rustic swirls for charm.
