If you're a fan of rich, decadent desserts, you're in for a treat. This Guinness Chocolate Cake combines the deep, robust flavor of stout with the smooth, velvety sweetness of chocolate to create a dessert that's perfect for special occasions or whenever you're in the mood for something indulgent. The unique combination of stout beer and chocolate creates a moist, flavorful cake that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Keep reading to learn all the steps to make this stunning cake from scratch, along with tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

What is Guinness Chocolate Cake?
Guinness Chocolate Cake is a luscious, moist cake made with Guinness stout, a famous Irish beer known for its dark, malty flavor. The stout complements the richness of the chocolate, adding depth and complexity to the cake. This cake is often topped with a creamy frosting, mimicking the famous head of foam on a glass of Guinness. The result is a dessert that’s both sophisticated and comforting, perfect for pairing with a pint of stout or a strong cup of coffee.
Ingredients List for Guinness Chocolate Cake
- 1 cup (240 ml) Guinness stout – The star ingredient that enhances the cake’s richness.
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter – For moisture and richness.
- ¾ cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds the deep chocolate flavor.
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar – For sweetness and structure.
- ¾ cup (180 ml) sour cream – Ensures a moist, tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and provides structure.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate and stout flavors.
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour – The base of the cake.
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking soda – Helps the cake rise and become light.
Substitutions and Variations
You can make several adjustments to the Guinness Chocolate Cake recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute the Guinness with strong coffee or root beer. For a dairy-free cake, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of sour cream. You can also experiment with different types of frosting, such as chocolate ganache, cream cheese frosting, or a simple whipped cream topping. For an added twist, fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts to give the cake more texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- Combine the Guinness and butter: In a medium saucepan, heat the Guinness and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Remove from heat and whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until smooth.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the Guinness mixture to the egg mixture, whisking until well combined.
- Incorporate the dry ingredients: Sift together the flour and baking soda in a separate bowl. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula or wooden spoon, mixing just until combined.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Cook Guinness Chocolate Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking a Guinness Chocolate Cake is straightforward, but following each step carefully will ensure your cake turns out perfectly. After preparing the batter, you'll want to focus on the baking time. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness at the 45-minute mark. Once the cake is fully baked, allow it to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting. It’s important not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients, as this can result in a denser, tougher cake. When folding the flour and baking soda into the wet mixture, use a gentle hand to preserve the cake’s light and airy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Stirring the batter too much can lead to a dense, tough cake. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
- Skipping the sifting process: Sifting the flour and baking soda helps prevent clumps and ensures even distribution, which is key for a well-risen cake.
- Not cooling the cake before frosting: Applying frosting to a warm cake will cause it to melt and become messy. Be patient and allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- Underbaking the cake: Baking times can vary, so use a toothpick to check the cake’s doneness. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To present your Guinness Chocolate Cake beautifully, top it with a smooth layer of cream cheese frosting that resembles the frothy head on a pint of Guinness. You can also dust the cake with cocoa powder or decorate it with chocolate shavings. Slice the cake into generous portions and serve it with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you're feeling extra indulgent, drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce over the cake before serving.
How to Serve Guinness Chocolate Cake
This cake is perfect for serving at a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to more formal celebrations. It pairs wonderfully with stout beer or dark roast coffee, bringing out the rich flavors of both the cake and the beverages. For a more elegant presentation, serve each slice with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce or a few fresh berries on the side. This cake can also be served at room temperature or slightly chilled for a denser texture, depending on your preference.
Presentation Ideas for Guinness Chocolate Cake
For a stunning presentation, use a simple white cake stand to allow the deep brown of the cake to stand out. You can top the cake with chocolate curls or edible gold leaf for a luxurious touch. Another option is to serve the cake in individual portions by cutting it into squares or rounds, then topping each piece with a swirl of frosting and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. You could also add some chocolate-covered espresso beans or Guinness-marinated cherries on the side to enhance the overall presentation.
Guinness Chocolate Cake Recipe Tips
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter and even baking.
- Chill the cake before frosting: If you have the time, pop the cake in the fridge for 30 minutes before frosting. This will help the frosting adhere better to the cake and prevent crumbs from mixing into the frosting.
- Use high-quality cocoa powder: The cocoa powder you use will significantly affect the flavor of your cake. Opt for a high-quality, unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.
- Let the Guinness breathe: Pour the Guinness into a glass and let it sit for a few minutes to release some of the carbonation. This will prevent the batter from becoming too bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Guinness Chocolate Cake can be made a day or two in advance. Simply bake the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Frost the cake just before serving for the freshest taste.
Does the cake taste like beer?
While the Guinness adds a unique depth and richness to the cake, it doesn’t make the cake taste like beer. The stout's malty flavor enhances the chocolate, making the cake taste more complex.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled, unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and frost before serving.
Can I use a different stout instead of Guinness?
Yes, you can use another stout, but keep in mind that different stouts have different flavor profiles. Guinness has a smooth, slightly sweet taste that works well with chocolate, so choose a stout with similar characteristics for the best results.
Conclusion
Guinness Chocolate Cake is a dessert that impresses both in flavor and presentation. With its rich, moist crumb and deep chocolate flavor enhanced by the malty notes of Guinness, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're baking it for St. Patrick's Day, a birthday, or just because, following the tips and techniques outlined here will ensure your cake turns out delicious every time. Don’t forget to top it with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting for that classic Guinness look and enjoy this indulgent treat with family and friends.
PrintGuinness Chocolate Cake Recipe
This Guinness Chocolate Cake combines the bold flavor of Guinness stout with rich cocoa for a moist, chocolatey dessert. Made with simple ingredients like cocoa powder, sugar, butter, and of course Guinness, this cake is a unique twist on classic chocolate cake. Serve it with cream cheese frosting for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Guinness stout
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Sugar
- Butter
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Cream cheese (optional for frosting)
- Powdered sugar (optional for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
- In a saucepan, heat the Guinness and butter until melted. Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs and vanilla extract, then add to the Guinness mixture.
- Sift together flour and baking soda, then fold into the wet ingredients.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- Let cool before frosting with cream cheese frosting (optional).
Notes
- Ensure Guinness is room temperature before mixing.
- For added richness, top with a cream cheese or chocolate ganache frosting.
- Can be served plain or dusted with powdered sugar for a lighter option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
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