Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the deep, rich flavors of Guinness beer with luscious chocolate. This decadent chocolate cake brings the rich flavor of Guinness beer and smooth frosting together for an unforgettable treat. The first bite delivers a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this cake is perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake
This moist chocolate cake with Guinness is not just another dessert; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this cake:
- Intense flavor: The combination of chocolate and beer creates a rich, complex taste.
- Moist texture: The addition of Guinness ensures a moist cake that stays fresh longer.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Impressive presentation: This Irish stout chocolate cake looks stunning when frosted and garnished.
- Versatile: Great for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration.
- Rich frosting: The smooth cream cheese frosting complements the cake perfectly.
Plus, it’s a Guinness chocolate cake recipe that fits into a vegetarian diet, making it suitable for various guests.
Ingredients for Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake
Gather these items:
- 2 bottles Guinness beer (11.2-12 oz each; reduced to 3/4 cup for flavor)
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 3/4 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
- 1 and 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons espresso powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil or melted coconut oil)
- 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 2 and 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-process)
- 3 Tablespoons reduced Guinness (from cake preparation)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Gold sprinkles for garnish
How to Make Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Reduce the Guinness: In a large saucepan, bring the Guinness to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until reduced to 3/4 cup, about 30 minutes. Set aside 3 tablespoons of the reduced Guinness for frosting.
- Step 2: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans, line them with parchment paper, then grease the parchment paper.
- Step 3: Make the cake: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using).
- Step 4: Mix wet ingredients: Using a mixer, blend the oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla on medium-high speed until smooth. Add the buttermilk and mix until well incorporated.
- Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix briefly, then pour in the reduced Guinness. Mix until smooth. The batter will be thin.
- Step 6: Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans on a wire rack.
- Step 7: Make the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, reduced Guinness, and a pinch of salt. Beat on low, then increase to high for 1 minute.
- Step 8: Assemble and frost the cake: Level the cakes if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread 1 cup of frosting over the top, then top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides. Garnish with sprinkles if desired.
- Step 9: Chill the cake: Refrigerate the cake uncovered for at least 30 minutes to help set the frosting.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake
Keep these in mind:
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a light, fluffy cake.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Irish whiskey to the frosting.
- Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise.
Best Ways to Serve Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake
This cake is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with fresh berries for a burst of natural sweetness.
- Top with chocolate ganache for an even richer flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake
To store, keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, and enjoy it warm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake
What’s the secret to perfect Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake?
The secret lies in using quality ingredients and allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting. This ensures the cake remains moist and the frosting sets perfectly. Remember, the best moist chocolate cake with stout benefits from patience!
Can I make Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it on the day you plan to serve it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s an ideal option for planning ahead for gatherings!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake?
Common mistakes include overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Ensure everything is at room temperature, and gently fold the batter to keep it light and airy. This is key to achieving a rich chocolate cake with beer that everyone will love!
Variations of Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake You Can Try
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to consider:
- Substitute Guinness with another stout for a different flavor profile.
- Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
- Make it a layered cake by adding different flavors of frosting between the layers.
- Try a gluten-free version by using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
With these variations, you can enjoy a different twist on this classic chocolate cake made with Guinness.
Moist Guinness Chocolate Cake: 5 Layers of Decadence
- Total Time: 87 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This decadent chocolate cake brings the rich flavor of Guinness beer and smooth frosting together for an unforgettable treat.
Ingredients
- 2 bottles Guinness beer (11.2–12 oz each; reduced to 3/4 cup for flavor)
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 3/4 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
- 1 and 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons espresso powder (optional)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil or melted coconut oil)
- 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 2 and 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-process)
- 3 Tablespoons reduced Guinness (from cake preparation)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Gold sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- Reduce the Guinness: In a large saucepan, bring the Guinness to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until reduced to 3/4 cup, about 30 minutes. Set aside 3 tablespoons of the reduced Guinness for frosting.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans, line them with parchment paper, then grease the parchment paper.
- Make the cake: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using).
- Mix wet ingredients: Using a mixer, blend the oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla on medium-high speed until smooth. Add the buttermilk and mix until well incorporated.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix briefly, then pour in the reduced Guinness. Mix until smooth. The batter will be thin.
- Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans on a wire rack.
- Make the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, reduced Guinness, and a pinch of salt. Beat on low, then increase to high for 1 minute.
- Assemble and frost the cake: Level the cakes if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread 1 cup of frosting over the top, then top with the second cake layer. Frost the top and sides. Garnish with sprinkles if desired.
- Chill the cake: Refrigerate the cake uncovered for at least 30 minutes to help set the frosting.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 40 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg