Guinness Chocolate Cake Recipe

Are you a fan of rich, moist chocolate cakes with a unique twist? Then this Guinness Chocolate Cake recipe is a must-try! Combining the bold, malty flavors of Guinness beer with the decadent richness of chocolate, this cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a birthday celebration, a casual dinner party, or simply a treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. Read on to discover how you can make this show-stopping cake, step by step, with easy-to-follow instructions and expert tips. Let's dive into the world of indulgence with this perfect Guinness Chocolate Cake recipe!

What is a Guinness Chocolate Cake?

A Guinness Chocolate Cake is a deliciously moist and rich cake that combines the flavors of dark stout beer and chocolate. The bitterness of Guinness beer enhances the depth of chocolate, creating a beautifully balanced dessert. The beer adds moisture and a subtle malty taste, while the cocoa powder provides that unmistakable chocolaty goodness. While the beer may sound like an odd ingredient for cake, it actually helps intensify the chocolate flavor without overpowering the sweetness. This cake has a tender crumb and is often paired with a creamy frosting, such as cream cheese or chocolate ganache.

Ingredients List for Guinness Chocolate Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to bake this incredible cake:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (240 ml) Guinness stout beer
• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter
• ¾ cup (70 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (180 ml) sour cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting (Cream Cheese Frosting):

• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, to adjust consistency)

Ingredients List for Guinness Chocolate Ganache (Optional)

If you want to take this cake to the next level, try adding a Guinness chocolate ganache topping. Here’s what you’ll need:

• ½ cup (120 ml) Guinness stout beer
• 8 oz (226 g) dark chocolate, chopped
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Substitutions and Variations

Looking to put your own spin on the classic Guinness Chocolate Cake? Here are some substitution options and variations to try:

• Beer Substitution: If Guinness stout isn’t available, you can substitute with another dark stout or porter. For a non-alcoholic option, coffee or espresso can be used, as it adds a similar richness without the alcohol.
• Flour Substitution: Gluten-free flour blends work well as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum to help with structure.
• Sugar Substitution: You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a more caramel-like flavor.
• Frosting Variations: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can try a chocolate buttercream, whipped cream frosting, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
• Flavor Enhancers: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor or a splash of whiskey for a boozy twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a simple and foolproof way to bake the perfect Guinness Chocolate Cake. Follow these steps for an indulgent treat:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure the cakes don’t stick.
2. Melt the Butter and Beer: In a medium saucepan, heat the Guinness stout and butter over medium heat until the butter has melted. Remove from heat and whisk in the cocoa powder until smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Slowly add the cooled beer and chocolate mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring constantly to avoid cooking the eggs.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until no flour streaks remain.
5. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Frosting: While the cake is cooling, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and milk (if needed) to achieve a spreadable consistency.
7. Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Optionally, pour the Guinness chocolate ganache over the cake for an extra layer of decadence.

How to Cook Guinness Chocolate Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Ingredients: Double-check that you have all your ingredients ready before starting.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Make the Batter: Follow the instructions in sections 2 and 3 to create a rich and smooth cake batter.
4. Bake and Cool: Bake the cakes for about 30-35 minutes. Let them cool completely before frosting.
5. Decorate and Serve: Frost the cake and optionally drizzle with ganache. Your cake is now ready to enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense. Fold the ingredients gently until just combined.
• Not Letting the Beer Mixture Cool: If the Guinness-chocolate mixture is too hot when added to the eggs, it could cook them, resulting in a lumpy batter.
• Skipping Parchment Paper: Always line your cake pans with parchment paper to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
• Using Cold Ingredients for Frosting: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the frosting.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The presentation of your Guinness Chocolate Cake can take it from great to unforgettable. Here’s how to serve it like a pro:

How to Serve Guinness Chocolate Cake

• Cut with a Warm Knife: To get clean, sharp slices, dip your knife in hot water and dry it off before cutting the cake.
• Serve with Coffee or Stout: Pairing the cake with a cup of coffee or a glass of Guinness stout will enhance the flavors and make the experience even more indulgent.
• Room Temperature Cake: This cake tastes best when served at room temperature. Let it sit out for 20-30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Presentation Ideas for Guinness Chocolate Cake

• Drizzle with Ganache: A shiny layer of chocolate ganache poured over the cake adds an extra element of sophistication.
• Add Fresh Berries: Top the cake with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness.
• Dust with Cocoa Powder or Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar on top of the frosted cake creates a simple but elegant look.

Guinness Chocolate Cake Recipe Tips

• Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: For the best flavor, use a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder.
• Chill the Cake Before Frosting: If the cake is slightly chilled, it will be easier to frost and result in a neater appearance.
• Let the Cake Rest: Allow the cake to rest for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors fully develop.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Guinness Chocolate Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped tightly at room temperature. You can also make the frosting in advance and refrigerate it. Just bring it to room temperature before frosting the cake.

Does the alcohol bake out of the cake?

Most of the alcohol in the Guinness evaporates during baking, leaving behind the rich, malty flavor without the alcoholic content.

Can I freeze Guinness Chocolate Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then thaw before frosting and serving.

Conclusion

The Guinness Chocolate Cake is a decadent treat that’s perfect for any chocolate lover looking to try something new. The combination of stout beer and rich chocolate creates a unique and unforgettable flavor that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you choose to top it with cream cheese frosting or a luxurious chocolate ganache, this cake will be a hit at any gathering. So, gather your ingredients and get baking – you won’t regret indulging in this irresistible dessert!

Print