Guinness Cake
Guinness Cake is a medium Irish recipe that serves 8. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Tyler Butt on YouTube.
Prep: 45 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 45 min
Cost: $12.42 total, $1.55 per serving
Ingredients
- 115 g Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 240 ml Guinness Stout Beer (regular Irish stout, room temperature)
- 50 g Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (sifted)
- 200 g Granulated Sugar (white)
- 120 g Sour Cream (full‑fat)
- 2 units Large Eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (pure)
- 275 g All‑Purpose Flour (sifted)
- 2.5 tsp Baking Soda (sodium bicarbonate)
- 0.25 tsp Salt (pinch)
- 200 g Mascarpone Cheese (room temperature)
- 100 ml Double Cream (heavy cream, chilled)
- 80 g Powdered Sugar (sifted)
- 15 g Unsalted Butter (for greasing) (softened)
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set the oven to 350°F (180°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the pan.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Prepare the Cake Tin
Butter the edges of a 9‑inch round cake tin, line the bottom with parchment paper, and butter the parchment for extra release.
Time: PT3M
Melt Butter and Combine with Guinness
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the 115 g butter, then stir in the Guinness until smooth.
Time: PT2M
Mix Wet Ingredients
Transfer the butter‑Guinness mixture to a large mixing bowl. Whisk in the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Time: PT3M
Sift Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Time: PT2M
Fold Dry into Wet
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet batter using a spatula, mixing just until no streaks remain.
Time: PT5M
Transfer to Tin
Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top with the spatula.
Time: PT2M
Bake
Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Time: PT45M
Temperature: 350°F
Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edge and invert onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
Time: PT10M
Prepare Mascarpone Frosting
In a clean bowl, beat the mascarpone, double cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
Time: PT8M
Frost the Cake
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula. Slice and serve.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 15 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Contains alcohol (optional to bake off), Not vegan, Not gluten‑free
Allergens: Dairy, Eggs, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Plant‑based butter
- Instead of Guinness Stout Beer: Other stout beer, Non‑alcoholic stout
- Instead of Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Dutch‑processed cocoa powder
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar
- Instead of Sour Cream: Greek yogurt
- Instead of Large Eggs: Egg substitute
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: Vanilla bean paste
- Instead of All‑Purpose Flour: Gluten‑free flour blend
- Instead of Baking Soda: Baking powder (use 1 tsp)
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Mascarpone Cheese: Cream cheese
- Instead of Double Cream: Whipping cream
- Instead of Powdered Sugar: Confectioners' sugar
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Fine Mesh Sieve
- 9‑inch Round Cake Tin
- Parchment Paper
- Spatula
- Cooling Rack
- Oven
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Melt butter with Guinness without boiling.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet batter gently to avoid over‑mixing.
- Bake until a toothpick comes out clean; do not overbake.
- Achieve a smooth, stable mascarpone frosting by using chilled cream.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use room‑temperature eggs and sour cream for a smoother batter.
- Sift the cocoa powder together with the flour for even chocolate flavor.
- A pinch of salt enhances the chocolate depth.
Troubleshooting
Cake is dense and does not rise.
Make sure the baking soda is fresh and the batter is not over‑mixed; also ensure the oven is fully preheated.
Frosting is runny.
Chill the mascarpone and cream before mixing, and add a little extra powdered sugar if needed.
Cake sticks to the pan.
Generously butter and line the bottom with parchment paper; allow the cake to cool slightly before removing.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 1 day if covered.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Bake the cake a day ahead and store wrapped in the fridge; frost just before serving.
- Frosting can be made up to 2 days ahead and kept chilled.
- If frosting becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before spreading.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Guinness Chocolate Cake in Irish cuisine?
Guinness Chocolate Cake is a modern Irish favorite that celebrates the iconic stout by incorporating it into a rich chocolate batter. It has become a staple for St. Patrick's Day parties, marrying Ireland's brewing heritage with classic comfort‑dessert flavors.
How is Guinness Chocolate Cake traditionally served in Ireland during St. Patrick's Day celebrations?
In Ireland, the cake is often served as a dessert after a hearty meal, sometimes dusted with a light sprinkling of cocoa or paired with a dollop of whipped cream. It is commonly enjoyed alongside a pint of Guinness for a festive touch.
What regional variations of Guinness Cake exist within Irish cuisine?
Some regions add a splash of Irish whiskey to the batter, while others top the cake with a simple chocolate glaze instead of mascarpone frosting. Coastal areas may incorporate a hint of sea salt for a caramel‑salty twist.
What occasions or celebrations is Guinness Chocolate Cake traditionally associated with in Irish culture?
The cake is most closely linked to St. Patrick's Day, but it also appears at birthdays, weddings, and pub gatherings where a boozy dessert is welcomed.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for an authentic Irish Guinness Chocolate Cake versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include Irish Guinness stout, unsweetened cocoa powder, and full‑fat dairy products like sour cream and butter. Substitutes such as non‑alcoholic stout or Greek yogurt can be used, but they alter the classic flavor profile.
What other Irish dishes pair well with Guinness Chocolate Cake?
Pair the cake with a creamy Irish coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a side of Irish cheese board featuring sharp cheddar and oatcakes for a balanced dessert spread.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Guinness Chocolate Cake at home?
Common errors include over‑mixing the batter, which creates a dense texture, and under‑baking, which leaves a soggy center. Also, failing to properly grease and line the pan can cause the cake to stick.
Why does this Guinness Chocolate Cake recipe use baking soda instead of baking powder?
Baking soda reacts with the acidity of the Guinness and sour cream, providing a quick rise and a tender crumb. Baking powder would not give the same lift and could result in a flatter cake.
Can I make the Guinness Chocolate Cake ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, bake the cake a day ahead, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate. Frost just before serving or store the frosting separately and spread when ready. The cake keeps well for up to four days refrigerated.
What does the YouTube channel Tyler Butt specialize in?
The YouTube channel Tyler Butt specializes in approachable home‑cooking tutorials, focusing on comfort foods, quick meals, and occasional indulgent desserts like this Guinness Chocolate Cake.
How does the YouTube channel Tyler Butt's approach to Irish cooking differ from other Irish cooking channels?
Tyler Butt blends classic Irish flavors with a relaxed, no‑fuss style, often using pantry staples and minimal equipment, whereas many traditional Irish channels emphasize heritage techniques and extensive ingredient lists.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the Guinness Chocolate Cake is done baking?
The top should be set with a slight crackle, and a toothpick inserted into the center should emerge clean or with a few moist crumbs. The cake will spring back lightly when pressed.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
