Indulge in the rich, decadent Guinness Chocolate Cake. It perfectly mixes Guinness stout’s bold taste with chocolate’s deep goodness. This cake is a must-try for chocolate and beer lovers. It offers a memorable experience.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a special treat, this cake will impress. It will delight your taste buds.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Guinness Chocolate Cake
Try a slice of Guinness Chocolate Cake, a rich Irish dessert. It mixes stout beer’s deep flavor with chocolate’s richness. This cake is moist, fudgy, and sure to wow your guests.
What Makes It Unique
The Guinness Chocolate Cake stands out because it uses Guinness Extra Stout beer. This beer adds a coffee-like taste that matches the cake’s chocolate. It’s a unique dessert that shows off Irish cuisine’s versatility.
Brief History of the Cake
Nigella Lawson introduced the Guinness Chocolate Cake in her 2004 book, “Feast: Food to Celebrate Life.” Since then, it’s become a favorite. It’s loved by home bakers and found in Irish restaurants and pubs worldwide.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 2¾ cups |
Granulated sugar | 1⅛ cups |
Espresso powder | 1 teaspoon |
Baking powder | 1¾ teaspoons |
Baking soda | ⅓ teaspoon |
Salt | ¾ teaspoon |
Eggs (large) | 3 + 1 yolk |
Vegetable oil | ¾ cup |
Guinness Extra Stout | 1 cup |
Vanilla extract | 2¼ teaspoons |
Bittersweet chocolate (melted) | 10 ounces |
This list shows the cake’s rich and indulgent nature. It highlights the ingredients that make it special.
“The Guinness Chocolate Cake is a true masterpiece, blending the classic flavors of Irish stout and rich, decadent chocolate into a moist and satisfying dessert.”
Ingredients You Will Need
To bake a delicious Guinness chocolate cake, you need a few key ingredients. You’ll need Guinness stout, unsalted butter, and cocoa powder. Also, sugar, sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, and baking soda are essential. For the topping, you’ll need confectioners’ sugar, cream cheese, and heavy cream.
List of Essential Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups (222 grams) of all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (64 grams) of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup (250 milliliters) of Guinness beer
- 1 cup (222 grams) of granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup (170 grams) of sour cream or plain full-fat yogurt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) of unsalted butter, softened
For the topping, you’ll need 300 grams of cream cheese, 125 milliliters of heavy cream, and 150 grams of confectioners’ sugar.
Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions
If you have dietary restrictions, there are substitutions you can make. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. To make the cake dairy-free, use plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or dairy-free cream cheese.
Remember, the key to a successful Guinness chocolate cake is using high-quality, fresh ingredients. With the right mix of baked goods with beer and chocolate cake ingredients, you’re on your way to a truly indulgent dessert.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Making the perfect Guinness Chocolate Cake is an art. With these steps, you’ll bake like a pro soon. Let’s get started and learn how to make this rich treat.
Preparing the Baking Pan
First, heat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Butter a 9-inch springform pan well. Then, line the bottom with parchment paper. This helps the cake come out smoothly and evenly.
Mixing the Batter
- In a saucepan, mix the Guinness and butter. Heat it until the butter melts, stirring now and then.
- Take the pan off the heat. Whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until it’s smooth.
- In another bowl, mix the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract well.
- Pour the sour cream mix into the Guinness mix slowly. Whisk constantly to avoid lumps.
- Lastly, add the flour and baking soda. Whisk until the batter is silky.
Baking and Cooling
Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan, which takes about 1 hour. Then, release the pan sides and cool it on a wire rack. This is before frosting or serving.
Baking Time | Cupcake Yield | Storage Duration |
---|---|---|
45-50 minutes | About 12 cupcakes | Up to 3 days in the fridge |
“The key to a perfectly moist and flavorful Guinness Chocolate Cake is all in the preparation. Follow these steps, and you’ll be baking like a true master.”
Tips for a Moist Cake
Baking a moist chocolate cake is all about using fresh, quality ingredients and knowing how baking with beer works. These tips will help you make your Guinness Chocolate Cake even better.
Importance of Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is key to a moist and rich chocolate cake. Make sure your eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature. Also, use a digital kitchen scale to measure dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder accurately.
The Role of Guinness
Guinness stout adds moisture and a special flavor to the cake. Its dark, roasted taste pairs well with chocolate, making the cake taste amazing. Always use fresh Guinness for the best taste.
To get a moist cake, don’t overmix the batter. Just mix the ingredients until they’re combined. Then, pour the batter into your pan and bake in the oven’s center. Use a cake tester to check if it’s done. Follow these tips to make a moist chocolate cake that will wow your guests.

Frosting Options for Your Cake
Choosing the right frosting for your Guinness chocolate cake is key. You can go for a tangy cream cheese frosting or a smooth chocolate ganache. Each option can make your cake even more delicious.
Classic Cream Cheese Frosting
A creamy cream cheese frosting is a classic choice. Mix softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and heavy cream until smooth. This frosting’s creaminess goes well with the Guinness cake, creating a perfect flavor mix.
Chocolate Ganache Topping
For a rich taste, try a chocolate ganache topping. Heat heavy cream until it simmers, then pour it over chocolate. Stir until it’s smooth and glossy. Let it cool and thicken before spreading it on your cake. The ganache’s chocolatey flavor pairs well with Guinness.
Choose your frosting wisely and wait for your cake to cool completely. This ensures a smooth finish. Enjoy the moist cake and creamy frosting for a memorable Guinness chocolate cake experience.
Decorating Your Guinness Chocolate Cake
After baking the moist Guinness chocolate cake, it’s time to decorate. You might be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just want to make your cake special. There are many creative and easy decorating ideas to try.
Fun and Creative Ideas
Try a “naked” cake look by showing off the cake’s sides. This highlights the dark chocolate and Guinness flavors. Add a chocolate ganache drip for a fancy touch.
For St. Patrick’s Day, use green frosting or add shamrock sprinkles and gold coins. These decorations will make your cake stand out at any dessert table.
Simple Techniques for a Flawless Finish
For a classic look, top your cake with chocolate shavings or a salted caramel drizzle. These add nice textures and tastes to your cake.
To get a perfect finish, make sure your cake is level and crumb-coated. This will give your cake a smooth, professional look that will wow your guests.
With these decorating tips and a bit of creativity, your Guinness chocolate cake will be a showstopper. Enjoy decorating and feel free to try new techniques and flavors to make your cake unique.
Pairing Drinks with Your Cake
Pairing drinks with your Guinness Chocolate Cake can make the dessert experience even better. You can choose from a variety of drinks, including beers or non-alcoholic options. Each choice can enhance your enjoyment of the cake.
Best Beers to Enjoy with Your Cake
A pint of Guinness stout is a classic choice. Its rich, roasted flavors match the chocolate in the cake perfectly. Dark beers like porters or stouts also pair well, offering a balanced taste.
Non-Alcoholic Pairing Suggestions
- A steaming cup of coffee can complement the chocolate in the cake, bringing out its depth.
- Hot chocolate is a cozy choice, adding warmth and sweetness to your dessert.
- Cold milk is a refreshing contrast to the rich cake, offering a creamy taste.
- An Irish coffee can add a festive touch, blending the cake’s richness with coffee and cream.
Choosing the right drink is key. It should enhance the flavors of the Guinness Chocolate Cake. This way, you’ll enjoy a perfect pairing that satisfies your taste buds.
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage is crucial for keeping your Guinness chocolate cake fresh. Whether you have leftover slices or a whole cake, these tips will help you enjoy it for days. Follow these guidelines to keep your cake moist and delicious.
Proper Storage Methods
For unfrosted cake layers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them at room temperature for up to 4 days. Or, freeze them for up to 2 months to keep them fresh. When you’re ready, thaw the layers at room temperature before frosting.
Frosted cakes can stay fresh at cool room temperature for 2-3 days. Use a cake keeper or a covered container. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake. This can extend its shelf life to up to 5 days. The Guinness frosting acts as a natural preservative, keeping your cake fresh.
How Long Will It Last?
Your Guinness chocolate cake can stay fresh for several days with the right storage. Unfrosted layers can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 days or frozen for 2 months. Frosted cakes can be stored at cool room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
The alcohol in the Guinness frosting helps keep the cake fresh longer. So, you can enjoy every bite of this delicious treat.

Serving Suggestions
The Guinness Chocolate Cake is perfect for any special event. It’s great for St. Patrick’s Day or any party. It’s sure to be the highlight of your gathering. Enjoy every delicious bite.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
- St. Patrick’s Day celebrations
- Birthday parties
- Casual get-togethers with friends
- Dinner parties or holiday gatherings
- Dessert buffets or potlucks
Serving Portions and Sizes
This cake is a rich treat, so a small portion is enough. It makes about 12 servings. Each slice has 449 calories, 51.5g carbs, and 24.5g fat.
For a fancy look, cut it into wedges. For something more laid-back, try squares. Always let the cake cool before slicing. This makes it moist and flavorful. Share it with loved ones and savor every bite!
Variations of the Recipe
The classic Guinness Chocolate Cake is a treat, but you can make it fit your diet. You can make it gluten-free or eggless and still enjoy its rich taste. This cake is known for being moist and decadent.
Gluten-Free Version
To make a gluten-free Guinness Chocolate Cake, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. These blends usually have rice flour, tapioca flour, or almond flour. They also have xanthan gum to help the ingredients stick together.
Remember, gluten-free flours might need a bit longer to bake. So, adjust the baking time and temperature as needed.
Eggless Version
For an eggless Guinness Chocolate Cake, you can use applesauce, mashed bananas, or an egg replacer. These substitutes can replace eggs in the recipe. You might need to adjust the liquid in the batter to get the right consistency.
“Experimenting with different variations of the Guinness Chocolate Cake allows you to enjoy this decadent treat, no matter your dietary needs or preferences.”
When making gluten-free or eggless cakes, follow the original recipe’s baking tips. This way, you can get the perfect texture and taste. With a bit of creativity, you can enjoy your Guinness Chocolate Cake while meeting your dietary needs.
Conclusion: Enjoying Every Bite
The Guinness Chocolate Cake is a treat that’s perfect for sharing. It’s rich, moist, and full of deep chocolate flavor. Plus, it has a hint of stout beer, making it a standout among chocolate dessert ideas.
Whether you top it with cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache, you can customize it in many ways. This makes it a versatile dessert for any occasion.
Share and Celebrate with Friends
Invite your friends and family to celebrate with this amazing homemade cake recipe. The Guinness Chocolate Cake is sure to impress everyone. It’s perfect for any special event or just a cozy treat with coffee or tea.
Encouragement to Bake and Experiment
Feel free to try new things with this recipe. Experiment with different frostings, decorations, or even make it into cupcakes. Baking is all about creativity and enjoying the process.
So, have fun and enjoy every bite of your homemade Guinness Chocolate Cake. It’s a journey of discovery and deliciousness.