If you are looking for a showstopper dessert that truly delights the taste buds with every bite, this Delicious Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe – Rich & Moist Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is precisely what you need. The fusion of deep, malty Guinness stout and rich cocoa creates an irresistibly moist cake, while the luscious cream cheese frosting adds a perfect tangy balance. It’s a wonderful treat that feels both indulgent and comforting, making it a beloved choice whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a chocolate fix.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to making this cake shine, and you’ll find that each component plays a key role in creating that perfect texture and flavor. The combination of stout, cocoa, and sour cream makes this cake incredibly moist while the cream cheese frosting rounds it all off with a creamy, dreamy finish.
- 1 cup Guinness stout: This adds a rich, malty depth that intensifies the chocolate flavor without tasting like beer.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps create a tender crumb in the cake.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides bold chocolate notes for the perfect balance of bittersweet flavor.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances out the bitterness of the cocoa and stout.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle tang that enhances all the flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients and contributes to the tender structure of the cake.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor profile.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, this gives the cake its structure.
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking soda: Provides the lift needed for a light yet moist crumb.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): For the frosting, offering tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the cake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds smoothness and richness to the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for spreading.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream: Adjusts the frosting’s consistency to make it luscious and spreadable.
How to Make Delicious Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe – Rich & Moist Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it well and lining the bottom with parchment paper. If you prefer, you can use two 8-inch round cake pans instead. This step ensures your cake will come out just right, with no sticking and perfect edges.
Step 2: Combine Guinness, Butter, Cocoa, and Sugar
In a saucepan over medium heat, gently melt the butter into the Guinness stout. Once melted, whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This warm mixture is what gives the cake its signature rich, moist texture and deep chocolate flavor. Let it cool slightly before moving to the next step to avoid cooking the eggs too quickly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Slowly pour in the cooled Guinness mixture, stirring gently to combine. This careful mixing ensures a silky batter that will bake up beautifully dense yet soft.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift the all-purpose flour and baking soda into the wet mixture. Then gently fold everything together just until combined. Overmixing here can lead to a tougher cake, so take your time and keep the batter light and airy.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy. Add heavy cream a tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. This frosting is what makes the cake irresistibly creamy and slightly tangy, perfectly complementing the rich chocolate.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting generously over the top. You can frost the sides as well if you doubled the frosting. Chill slightly to let the frosting set, or serve at room temperature for a softer finish.
How to Serve Delicious Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe – Rich & Moist Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To make your cake even more inviting, consider topping it with simple garnishes like chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a sprinkle of crushed toasted nuts. These subtle additions bring texture and visual appeal without overpowering the main flavors.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If you want something lighter, a bowl of fresh mixed berries balances the richness by adding juicy freshness to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve slices of the cake layered with extra cream cheese frosting in individual glass jars, creating a decadent parfait effect. Alternatively, cut the cake into bite-size squares and serve on a platter for parties or gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy small, flavorful treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, this cake can stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy it over several days without losing any flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake layers unfrosted by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then frost just before serving for freshness. The frosting itself can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, microwave a slice for 15 to 20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat or the frosting may become too soft. Warm cake pairs beautifully with cold cream cheese frosting for a delightful contrast.
FAQs
Can I substitute Guinness stout with another type of beer?
Yes, but keep in mind that Guinness lends a unique malty chocolate richness that lighter beers or ales might not provide. For the best flavor, stick to a dark stout or porter.
Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This cake contains no meat or animal-derived gelatin, and the ingredients are all vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make the cake gluten-free?
You could substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but the texture may vary slightly. Make sure your baking soda and other ingredients are also gluten-free certified.
How long should I refrigerate the frosted cake before serving?
A chill time of at least 30 minutes helps the cream cheese frosting set nicely, but you can refrigerate it for several hours or overnight for even better flavor melding.
Does the cake taste like beer?
Not at all! The Guinness intensifies the chocolate flavor without leaving a beer taste, so this cake will delight chocolate lovers and skeptics alike.
Final Thoughts
This Delicious Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe – Rich & Moist Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a treasure in the world of desserts. It balances bold flavors with comforting moisture and a luscious frosting that makes each bite heavenly. If you want to impress friends, celebrate a special moment, or simply treat yourself to an indulgent, homemade chocolate cake, this recipe is your new go-to. Trust me, once you try it, this cake will hold a special spot in your baking repertoire forever!
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Delicious Chocolate Guinness Cake Recipe – Rich & Moist Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Delicious Chocolate Guinness Cake is a rich and moist dessert enhanced with the deep flavors of stout beer and topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings, this recipe delivers a decadent chocolate experience with a unique Irish-American twist.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup Guinness stout
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make Guinness Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the Guinness stout and unsalted butter. Stir until the butter melts completely, then whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Slowly pour in the cooled Guinness mixture, stirring continuously to blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour and baking soda, then gently fold these into the wet mixture until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy. Add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top. Chill slightly or serve at room temperature as preferred.
Notes
- This cake is exceptionally rich and moist, and its flavor improves after resting for a day.
- You can double the frosting amount if you want to cover the sides of the cake as well.
- The Guinness stout enhances the chocolate flavor without imparting a beer taste.
