Chocolate Guinness Cake

Name: Chocolate Guinness Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 6.2 oz unsalted butter; 5.1 oz Guinness; 1.8 oz cocoa powder; 8.8 oz light brown soft sugar; 4.2 oz whole milk; 3 medium eggs; 8.8 oz plain flour; 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda; 5.3 oz unsalted butter (room temperature); 5.3 oz icing sugar; 10.6 oz full-fat soft cream cheese; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Chocolate shavings for garnish

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

February 7, 2025

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Chocolate Guinness Cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the unique taste of Guinness stout. If you love chocolate cake, this one will quickly become your favorite. It’s wonderfully fudgey, with a depth of flavor you can’t get from a standard chocolate cake. The addition of Guinness not only adds moisture but also enhances the cake’s complexity, making each bite a little adventure. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for celebrations or a sweet reward after a long day. Picture serving a slice at a gathering, everyone’s faces lighting up with each delicious bite. It’s not just cake; it’s an experience. Ready to make the best Chocolate Guinness Cake ever? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

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What is Chocolate Guinness Cake

Chocolate Guinness Cake is a rich, indulgent dessert that combines the deep flavors of chocolate and the distinctive taste of Guinness stout. This cake is not just a typical chocolate cake; the addition of Guinness adds moisture and a unique depth of flavor that makes it incredibly fudgey and delicious. Topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is a showstopper for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Guinness Cake

If you’re a chocolate lover, this Chocolate Guinness Cake will quickly become a favorite. Its decadent texture and flavor offer a delightful twist on traditional chocolate cake, making it perfect for celebrations or a comforting treat after a long day. The creamy frosting and chocolate shavings only serve to enhance its appeal, creating a dessert that is both beautiful and utterly delicious.

Ingredients

6.2 oz unsalted butter
5.1 oz Guinness
1.8 oz cocoa powder
8.8 oz light brown soft sugar
4.2 oz whole milk
3 medium eggs
8.8 oz plain flour
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
5.3 oz unsalted butter (room temperature)
5.3 oz icing sugar
10.6 oz full-fat soft cream cheese
1 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate shavings for garnish

Preparing the Cake

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tins

Begin by preheating your oven to 320ºF (160ºC) or 280ºF (140ºC) for fan ovens. This is crucial for even baking. While the oven warms up, line two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake tins with parchment paper. This little step ensures that your cakes come out easily after baking.

Melt the Butter and Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, remove the pan from the heat and mix in the Guinness, cocoa powder, light brown sugar, whole milk, and eggs. Whisk this mixture until it is smooth and well combined. Making sure everything is melded together brings out the best flavors.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Add the plain flour and bicarbonate of soda to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined; be cautious not to overmix. The key here is to ensure there are no lumps but keep that batter nice and airy for a fluffy cake.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins. Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking can feel like an eternity, but it’s worth the wait. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely in the tins before removing them. Patience is your friend here!

Making the Frosting

Beat the Butter

In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter for several minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential; it adds air to your frosting, making it luscious and dreamy.

Add the Icing Sugar

Gradually add the icing sugar to the beaten butter, mixing until smooth. This process should take about 5 minutes for the best texture. Keep going until you see that creamy consistency forming; it’s so satisfying!

Mix in Cream Cheese and Vanilla

To avoid excess water in your cream cheese, place it in a separate bowl first. Add the cream cheese and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Don’t be surprised if it looks a bit lumpy at first; just keep mixing, and it will come together.

Assembling the Cake

Layer the Cake

Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate. Spread half of the cream cheese frosting on top of the first layer. Be generous! Carefully place the second layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over the entire cake. Take your time with this; it’s where the magic happens.

Garnish the Cake

Finally, sprinkle chocolate shavings over the top of the frosted cake to add a delightful finishing touch. This little detail makes a big difference, giving it that enticing look.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of the Chocolate Guinness Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the perfect dessert experience. Enjoying it with friends and family can elevate the experience even more.

Tips for Success

Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification. It really makes a difference in texture!
Don’t skip the chilling time; it helps the flavors meld and improves the cake’s texture.
Perform the toothpick test to check for doneness; overbaking can lead to a dry cake. Trust your instincts and keep an eye on it!

Variations

For an extra twist, try adding a splash of Irish whiskey to the frosting for a boozy flavor. It’s a fun way to enhance the richness!
Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor and texture. This twist can add a unique depth to your cake.
Decorate with fresh berries for a colorful and fruity contrast. It looks beautiful and tastes amazing!

Storage Tips

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, allow to thaw in the fridge before serving.

Pairing Ideas

To enhance your Chocolate Guinness Cake experience, consider pairing it with a stout beer for a complementary flavor. Alternatively, a rich red wine can elevate the chocolate notes beautifully. The right pairing can take your dessert to new heights.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to frost and serve. This gives you more time on the big day.

2. Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Absolutely! You can use a non-alcoholic stout or a chocolate-flavored soda as a substitute to maintain the rich flavors without the alcohol.

3. How can I make the frosting a bit sweeter?
Feel free to add more icing sugar to the frosting mixture until you reach your desired sweetness. Sweetness is always a personal touch, so adjust to taste!

4. Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes! You can substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend. Just check the ratio for the best results; it can work wonderfully!

5. How do I prevent the cake from sinking in the middle?
Ensure your oven is preheated properly and try to avoid opening the oven door during baking. This helps maintain even temperature, giving your cake the rise it deserves.

Chocolate Guinness Cake is truly a unique dessert that captures hearts and taste buds alike. Indulging in every bite brings a sense of warmth and comfort, making it the perfect treat for gatherings or quiet moments at home. Plus, the straightforward recipe ensures that anyone can create this masterpiece, regardless of baking skill. Treat yourself and those you love to this delightful cake, and revel in the joy it brings!

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