If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both a showstopper and a crowd-pleaser, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Guinness Chocolate Cake. Rich, incredibly moist, and with that deep, almost mysterious chocolate flavor that only Guinness can bring, this cake is the ultimate treat whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just craving a decadent slice. With a cloud of silky, cream cheese frosting on top, it perfectly mimics the iconic stout with a delicious twist. Trust me, once you try this dreamy dessert, it will quickly become your go-to recipe for special occasions or any night you need something extra indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with a handful of classic, easy-to-find ingredients, but each one plays a vital role in creating the best Guinness Chocolate Cake. From the bold stout to the luscious frosting, every component adds something unique—flavor, moisture, or that must-have fudgy texture!
- Guinness stout beer: Adds incredible depth and richness, making the chocolate flavor really sing.
- Unsalted butter, cut into pieces: Provides moisture and a silky mouthfeel that makes every bite irresistible.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate, giving that luxurious, dark color and taste.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps balance out the bittersweet notes from the cocoa and Guinness.
- Sour cream: This is the secret to the cake’s amazing tenderness and slightly tangy flavor.
- Large eggs: Give the cake structure and help hold everything together.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and enhances all the chocolatey goodness.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake that brings all the ingredients together.
- Baking soda: Ensures a beautiful rise and soft crumb, especially important with the acidity of the stout and sour cream.
- Salt: Just a pinch wakes up all the other flavors in the cake.
- Cream cheese (softened): Essential for making the frosting tangy, creamy, and smooth as silk.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it a light, fluffy texture.
- Heavy cream: Whips the frosting into a delightfully pillowy cloud that melts in your mouth.
How to Make Guinness Chocolate Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. This ensures your cake comes out cleanly and stays beautifully moist.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Stout Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the Guinness and butter. Let the butter melt fully, stirring occasionally, then whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step melds the malty beer and bittersweet chocolate—the backbone of your Guinness Chocolate Cake!
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract. This mixture should be creamy and well-blended—think of it as the luscious base that keeps your cake ultra-tender.
Step 4: Mix Chocolate into Wet Ingredients
Gradually whisk the slightly cooled chocolate stout mixture into your wet ingredients. This step is pure magic as the aromas start to bloom and the batter takes on a deep, chocolatey color.
Step 5: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Add these dry ingredients to your chocolate mixture and stir gently until just combined. Don’t overmix—stop when you no longer see streaks of flour for the most tender crumb.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the luxurious batter into your prepared pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
Let your Guinness Chocolate Cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This allows the flavors to deepen and ensures it won’t stick or break apart.
Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the cream cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue mixing until the frosting is light and lump-free. Slowly add heavy cream, beating continually, until the frosting becomes fluffy and spreadable—perfect for topping your cake.
Step 9: Frost and Serve
Once the cake is cool, spread the frosting in a thick layer only on top, imitating the foamy head of a pint of Guinness. Not only does it look striking—it tastes divine.
How to Serve Guinness Chocolate Cake
Garnishes
While this cake is already visually stunning thanks to its signature frosted “head,” you can add a dusting of cocoa powder, shaved chocolate, or even a drizzle of chocolate ganache for extra flair. A few chocolate curls or a sprinkle of sea salt take the presentation (and flavor!) to another level.
Side Dishes
For a truly indulgent dessert platter, serve your Guinness Chocolate Cake with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream. The creaminess and slight acidity of the fruit or ice cream perfectly contrast the dense chocolate cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing and layering the cake with whipped cream and berries in individual glasses for a fun parfait. Or, cut it into mini cubes and skewer with fruit for a bite-sized dessert sampler at parties—your guests will be raving about your creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Guinness Chocolate Cake covered in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to four days, and the flavors actually deepen and become even richer overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and an extra layer of foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and frost just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
If you love warm cake, a quick (ten second) zap in the microwave revives both flavor and fudginess. For larger portions, gently warm slices in a low oven. Just be sure not to overheat the frosting or it could melt.
FAQs
Can I use a different stout or beer instead of Guinness?
Absolutely! While Guinness gives this cake its signature malty richness, any dark stout will work. Just avoid anything too hoppy for the best, smooth chocolate flavor.
Is it safe for kids to eat since it has beer in it?
Yes—it’s safe! The alcohol mostly cooks out during baking, leaving only the deep, complex flavors behind. Still, it’s always up to your comfort level as a parent.
Do I have to use a springform pan?
While a springform pan makes removing the cake much easier, you can use a regular 9-inch cake pan; just be sure to line it well with parchment and allow it to cool fully before lifting out.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Definitely! The cream cheese frosting can be made up to two days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a quick whip before spreading for best results.
Why does the cake taste even better the next day?
The flavors in Guinness Chocolate Cake deepen and mellow overnight, making the chocolate and malty notes even more pronounced. If you can resist, it’s worth giving the cake a night to “rest” before serving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fall in love with your new favorite dessert, treat yourself and your friends to this unforgettable Guinness Chocolate Cake. Each bite is fudgy, moist, and utterly packed with flavor—don’t be surprised if it becomes the most requested recipe in your collection!
