Chocolate Guinness Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich, deep flavors of chocolate with the malty, slightly bitter notes of Guinness stout. The result is a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something truly indulgent. Topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake is sure to impress with its unique taste and texture.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (240ml) Guinness stout
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large saucepan, combine the Guinness and butter. Heat over medium until the butter is melted.
- Remove the pan from heat and whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the sour cream mixture into the Guinness mixture, stirring until combined.
- Sift the flour, baking soda, and salt into the wet ingredients, folding gently until no lumps remain.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove the sides of the springform pan and let the cake cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
5. Frost the Cake:
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of the cake, leaving the sides bare to mimic the appearance of a pint of Guinness.
- The frosting should resemble the frothy head of a freshly poured pint.
6. Serve:
- Slice the cake and serve. The rich, chocolatey flavor with the creamy frosting makes for a perfect indulgence.
Tips for Success
- Guinness Stout: The stout adds a depth of flavor and moisture to the cake without making it taste like beer. The alcohol will mostly cook off, leaving behind a rich, malty flavor that enhances the chocolate.
- Frosting: Make sure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.
- Springform Pan: Using a springform pan makes it easier to release the cake without damaging it, but you can also use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper.
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate Guinness Cake pairs wonderfully with a glass of Guinness, a cup of strong coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. It’s an excellent dessert for St. Patrick’s Day, birthdays, or any time you want a rich and impressive cake.
Conclusion
Chocolate Guinness Cake is a luscious dessert that brings together the bold flavors of stout and chocolate in a moist, rich cake. Topped with a creamy layer of cream cheese frosting, it’s a treat that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a slice of cake, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.