Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream is an indulgent dessert that perfectly marries rich cocoa flavors with the unique depth of Guinness beer. This moist cake topped with creamy Irish buttercream makes it ideal for celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day, birthdays, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The harmony of flavors and textures in this cake will have everyone asking for a second slice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of Guinness and chocolate creates a deep, rich flavor that is both satisfying and unique.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and Guinness, this cake remains incredibly moist, ensuring each bite is a delight.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this show-stopping dessert without stress.
- Versatile Topping: The Irish buttercream can be flavored or decorated in various ways, making it suitable for any celebration.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 10 servings, making it perfect for gatherings or family celebrations.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand to ensure a smooth experience.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly and evenly for a perfect texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success, affecting taste and consistency.
- Cooling rack: Allows your cakes to cool evenly without trapping moisture, keeping them fluffy.
Ingredients
For the 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)
- 4 ounces (113 grams) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Optional Toppings
- Sprinkles or chocolate curls
How to Make Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
Measure out and sift together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
Sour cream or yogurt,
Vegetable oil,
Eggs,
Vanilla extract,
Guinness beer until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.
Use an electric mixer on low speed until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for about 30–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 6: Make Irish Buttercream
While cakes are cooling, prepare the buttercream. In a mixing bowl:
Beat unsalted butter until creamy,
Gradually add powdered sugar,
Mix in Irish cream and melted chocolate until smooth.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once cooled:
Place one layer on a serving plate,
Spread a generous layer of buttercream on top,
Add the second layer and cover the entire cake with remaining buttercream.
Step 8: Decorate
Top with optional sprinkles or chocolate curls for an extra festive touch!
Enjoy your delicious Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream!
How to Serve Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
Serving Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream is a delightful experience that can elevate any occasion, especially during festive celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cake presentation and flavor pairings.
With Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries on top for a pop of color and tartness.
- Raspberries: Add a handful of raspberries for a sweet-tart flavor that complements the richness of the cake.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla bean ice cream pairs perfectly with the chocolatey depth of the cake.
- Irish Cream Ice Cream: For an extra touch, serve with Irish cream ice cream to echo the flavors in the buttercream.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Warm Chocolate Ganache: Pour warm ganache over each slice for an indulgent touch.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce can add a sweet contrast to the chocolate.
With Coffee or Espresso
- Brewed Coffee: Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Espresso Shot: An espresso shot offers a bold complement that brings out the cake’s rich notes.
How to Perfect Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
To ensure your Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like eggs and sour cream mix better when they are at room temperature, resulting in a smoother batter.
- Sift cocoa powder and powdered sugar: Sifting removes lumps and helps create a light and airy buttercream texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake; overmixing can lead to tough results.
- Cool completely before frosting: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before applying buttercream. This prevents melting and ensures clean layers.
Best Side Dishes for Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
Pairing side dishes with your Guinness Chocolate Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some excellent choices:
- Irish Coffee: A classic pairing that combines coffee, whiskey, and cream for a warming drink.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination adds crunch and texture next to the soft cake.
- Cheese Board: Include sharp cheddar or creamy brie for contrasting flavors against sweet cake.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
- Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love nuts, these bars offer another layer of flavor while keeping dessert themes intact.
- Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: These cookies provide an extra chocolate kick alongside fresh minty notes that refresh the palate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream even more delightful. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light texture.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or sour cream can affect the batter’s consistency. Always use room temperature ingredients.
- Skipping the Sift: Not sifting cocoa powder and powdered sugar can result in lumps. Always sift for a smooth buttercream.
- Improper Baking Time: Overbaking will dry out your cake. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
- Ignoring Cooling Times: Frosting a warm cake can cause the icing to melt. Let your cake cool completely before adding buttercream.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- If you have leftover buttercream, keep it in a separate container, also covered tightly.
Freezing Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
- Wrap individual slices or whole cakes in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream, answered for your convenience.
How do I make Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream?
To make this cake, combine dry ingredients, mix wet ingredients, then blend them together. Bake and top with creamy Irish buttercream.
Can I substitute Guinness beer?
Yes, you can use other stout beers or even non-alcoholic stout if you prefer.
What is the best way to decorate my Guinness Chocolate Cake?
You can use chocolate curls, sprinkles, or even fresh berries for decoration. Get creative!
How long does the cake last?
The cake stays fresh in the fridge for about 5 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.
Is there an alternative frosting for Guinness Chocolate Cake?
Yes! You could use cream cheese frosting or whipped cream as alternatives if desired.
Final Thoughts
The Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream is not only rich and fudgy but also perfect for celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day. This recipe allows room for customization; feel free to add nuts or other flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy baking this delightful dessert!
Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 slices 1x
Description
Guinness Chocolate Cake with Irish Buttercream is an indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the unique depth of Guinness beer. This moist, fudgy cake topped with creamy Irish buttercream is perfect for celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day, birthdays, or any occasion where you wish to impress your guests. Each slice offers a delightful harmony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to make and versatile in presentation, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup 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
- 4 sticks unsalted butter (for frosting, at cool room temperature)
- 6 cups powdered sugar (sifted for frosting)
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons Irish cream (such as Bailey’s)
- 4 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Sprinkles or chocolate curls (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and Guinness until smooth.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- While cooling the cakes, beat softened butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in Irish cream and melted chocolate until smooth.
- Once cooled, layer the cakes with buttercream in between and cover the top and sides with remaining frosting.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
