Go Back

Chocolate Guinness Cake with Baileys Buttercream

A rich and moist cake combining the robust flavors of Guinness stout and decadent chocolate, topped with a creamy Baileys buttercream frosting.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Irish
Keyword: Baileys buttercream, celebration cake, Chocolate Cake, Decadent Dessert, Guinness cake
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 500kcal

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

  • 1 cup Guinness stout Adds depth to the chocolate flavor.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cubed Provides moisture and richness.
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Intensifies the chocolate taste.
  • 2 cups granulated sugar Sweetness that balances the richness.
  • 3/4 cup sour cream Contributes to the cake’s moist texture.
  • 2 large eggs Binding agents that give structure.
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract Perfumes the cake with floral notes.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour The foundation for structure.
  • 2 1/2 tsp baking soda Helps the cake rise.

For the Baileys Buttercream

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temp Base for the frosting.
  • 3 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and gives a velvety frosting.
  • 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream Elevates the frosting flavor (optional).
  • 1 pinch salt Balances sweetness.

For Decoration (Optional)

  • Green & gold sprinkles For festive decoration.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
  • In a medium saucepan, gently heat the Guinness and cubed butter over medium heat until melted. Stir in cocoa powder and granulated sugar, whisking until the mixture is smooth.
  • Set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until blended.
  • Gradually incorporate the slightly cooled Guinness-chocolate mixture until combined.
  • Sift in the all-purpose flour and baking soda, mixing gently until you achieve a smooth batter.

Baking

  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  • Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack.

Frosting Preparation

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter until fluffy.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing well.
  • Mix in the Baileys and a pinch of salt until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

Assembly

  • Place one cake layer on a serving platter and spread a thick layer of frosting on top.
  • Position the second cake layer on top and cover the sides and top with the remaining frosting.
  • Decorate with green and gold sprinkles or chocolate shavings if desired.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cake batter. For a simpler frosting, use whipped cream or cream cheese frosting. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.