The aroma of fresh-baked Guinness chocolate cake wafts through the air like a warm hug on a cold day. Picture this rich, dark beauty covered in luscious frosting, ready to steal the spotlight at any gathering.
Every time I bake this cake, I’m reminded of the time I brought it to my friend’s birthday party. The moment people took a bite, their eyes lit up like they had just found a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This decadent Guinness chocolate cake is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious and visually stunning
- Its rich flavor profile makes it perfect for special occasions or casual get-togethers
- You can easily customize the frosting to suit your taste preferences while impressing your friends and family with its unique twist on traditional chocolate cake
I remember the first time I made this cake; my friends could not stop raving about it. It was a hit.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Guinness Stout: Choose a good quality stout for the best depth of flavor; it enhances the richness of the chocolate.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality cocoa powder for intense chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed works beautifully here.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works well; be sure to sift it for lighter cake texture.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter perfectly; you can mix in some brown sugar for added moisture.
- Baking Soda: This helps the cake rise; fresh baking soda ensures optimal results.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it.
- Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature for better incorporation into batter.
- Buttermilk: Adds moisture and tang; you can substitute with milk mixed with vinegar if needed.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender; feel free to use melted butter for richer flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates flavors; avoid imitation for best results.
- Heavy Cream: For making velvety frosting that complements the rich cake beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans so that your masterpiece comes out effortlessly.
Melt Chocolate and Butter Together: In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter and cocoa powder while stirring until smooth and glossy. This will create a heavenly base for our batter.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined. The aroma will start pulling you in.
Add eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and that glorious Guinness stout into your dry mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix. We want fluffy textures.
Pour batter evenly into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell divine.
Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks. This cooling phase prevents soggy layers.
While cakes cool down, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form—this creamy topping will be irresistible against our rich chocolate layers.
Assembling this beauty is where things get exciting. Place one layer on your serving plate and slather it generously with frosting before topping with the second layer. Finish off by frosting the top and sides as lavishly as you desire.
And there you have it—the ultimate indulgent treat guaranteed to wow anyone who dares take a slice. Enjoy each bite of this decadent Guinness chocolate cake as if you’ve just discovered treasure in dessert form.
You Must Know
- This delectable Guinness Chocolate Cake combines rich flavors with a moist crumb
- The combination of chocolate and stout creates a unique depth, making each bite an experience
- Don’t forget to let it cool completely before frosting for the best texture and taste
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Blend the dry ingredients first, then combine with wet for even mixing.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping regular cocoa powder for dark or using espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave if desired.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients for better blending, ensuring a smooth batter
- Sifting flour and cocoa prevents lumps, giving you a velvety texture
- Letting the cake cool completely helps frosting adhere better without sliding off
I remember baking this Guinness Chocolate Cake for my friend’s birthday party. Everyone raved about it, and I felt like a rock star in the kitchen that day.
FAQ
What makes Guinness Chocolate Cake unique?
The addition of stout enhances the chocolate flavor, creating a rich depth.
Can I use another type of beer?
Yes, try a different stout or porter for varied flavors in your cake.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for safe enjoyment.

Guinness Chocolate Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Guinness Chocolate Cake, a moist and decadent treat that combines chocolate with the depth of stout beer, perfect for any celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Guinness Stout
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Heavy cream (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt butter and cocoa powder until smooth.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients (eggs, buttermilk, oil, vanilla, and Guinness) with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool before frosting with whipped heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Substitute dark cocoa powder for a deeper flavor. Add espresso powder for enhanced chocolate experience. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.