Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that combines the rich, deep flavors of Guinness stout with a moist, chocolatey base, then this Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite indulgence. This cake is the perfect balance of dark malt notes and luscious cocoa, wrapped up in a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a decadent treat, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a bit of Irish charm to your kitchen.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the Guinness adds depth and moisture, cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate experience, and the sour cream and buttermilk ensure the cake stays beautifully tender and rich.

• Guinness stout: This gives the cake a subtle malty bitterness that enhances the chocolate flavor perfectly.
• Unsalted butter: Cubed to melt smoothly into the stout, adding a creamy richness that keeps the cake moist.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: For that deep chocolate punch, choose a high-quality cocoa for the best taste.
• All-purpose flour: The structural base of your cake, giving it just the right texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping create a tender crumb.
• Baking powder and baking soda: A duo that guarantees the perfect rise and airy lightness.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance and brighten the rich flavors.
• Eggs: They bind everything together and add richness.
• Sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle tang to complement the stout.
• Vanilla extract: A splash to round out all the flavors.
• Buttermilk: Adds tenderness and moisture for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cream cheese: Softened for the luscious frosting that tops this cake.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting for a perfectly balanced finish.
• Heavy cream: Whipped into the frosting to make it light and fluffy.

How to Make Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe

Step 1: Setting up the Oven and Pans

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or two 8-inch round cake pans. Preparing your pans ahead ensures the cake will release beautifully after baking.

Step 2: Melting Butter and Guinness

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the Guinness stout and cubed butter. Stir occasionally until the butter melts fully, then remove from heat. Whisk in the cocoa powder until it’s smooth and glossy. Let this mixture cool slightly—this step infuses the cake batter with incredible flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Combining Dry Ingredients

While your cocoa mixture cools, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Sifting eliminates lumps and helps create an even texture in your cake.

Step 4: Mixing Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. This blend adds richness and a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Step 5: Bringing It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake light. Slowly incorporate the cooled Guinness-chocolate mixture, stirring gently until the batter is smooth. Finish by stirring in the buttermilk, which guarantees the perfect moist crumb.

Step 6: Baking the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pans and place them in your preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, revealing a perfectly baked cake with a tender crumb.

Step 7: Cooling the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. This ensures it cools evenly and prevents it from becoming soggy on the bottom.

Step 8: Making the Frosting

While the cake cools completely, prepare the frosting by beating softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Then add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy. This frosting is the perfect tangy complement to the rich chocolate stout cake.

Step 9: Frosting and Serving

Once your cake is cooled, generously frost it with the cream cheese mixture. Don’t be shy with the frosting—it’s what makes this Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe truly unforgettable. Slice, serve, and prepare for compliments!

How to Serve Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance the cake’s visual and taste appeal by sprinkling a bit of cocoa powder or shaved dark chocolate on top. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a lovely tart contrast, while a few mint leaves bring a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a simple dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a grown-up twist, serve alongside a glass of the same Guinness stout you baked with—the flavors will dance beautifully together.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering your Chocolate Guinness Cake with additional cream cheese frosting or even a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce. You can also cut it into mini cupcakes for parties or pack individual slices in pretty boxes for sharing with friends as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe fresh by wrapping leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this cake later, you can freeze it—either whole or in slices. Wrap well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When properly stored, it can keep for up to 3 months without losing its wonderful texture or flavor.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake after freezing, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For that freshly baked feel, warm slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds, or let them come to room temperature before indulging. The frosting will still be creamy and heavenly.

FAQs

Can I substitute the Guinness stout in this recipe?

While Guinness is essential to achieving the unique flavor of this cake, you can substitute it with another stout or even a robust porter beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try using a strong coffee, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

The cake does contain beer, but most of the alcohol bakes out during cooking. It’s generally safe for kids to eat, but if you’re concerned, using a substitute like coffee is a great workaround.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Be sure to follow your flour brand’s advice on measurements and additional binding agents if needed.

Can I make this cake vegan?

Making this exact recipe vegan is tricky since it relies on butter, eggs, and dairy-based frosting. However, you can experiment with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter, flax eggs, and dairy-free cream cheese to create a vegan-friendly variation.

What’s the best way to serve leftover frosting?

If you have extra frosting, keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. It can be used as a dip for fruits, spread on toast, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful. Just bring it to room temperature and whip it lightly before serving for best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe is one of those rare desserts that brings together comfort, elegance, and a touch of surprise in every bite. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it over and over, whether for celebrations or quiet moments of indulgence. Trust me, baking this cake is as rewarding as eating it—so don your apron and treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of something truly special.

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