An indulgent Guinness chocolate cake recipe

Say sláinte with a heaping slice of this Guinness chocolate cake!

Guinness and chocolate are a match made in heaven when it comes to flavor combinations. The rich, creamy flavor of Guinness pairs perfectly with the smooth, sweet taste of chocolate. 

Guinness has a unique flavor that sets it apart from other beers. It has a rich, malty taste that is slightly bitter and has a creamy texture. This flavor profile complements chocolate exceptionally well. Chocolate is also rich and has a creamy texture, and when paired with the bitterness of Guinness, the result is a perfect balance of flavors.

Guinness chocolate cake recipe

Yield: 12 servings.

Ingredients:

Cake:

• 1 cup Guinness
• 1/2 cup butter, cubed
• 2 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup baking cocoa
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2/3 cup Daisy Brand® Sour Cream
• 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda

Icing:

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Method:

• Grease a nine-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper; set aside.
• In a small saucepan, heat the Guinness and butter until the butter is melted.
• Remove from the heat; whisk in sugar and cocoa until blended.
• Combine the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla; whisk into the beer mixture.
• Combine flour and baking soda; whisk into beer mixture until smooth. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
• Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
• Cool completely in a pan on a wire rack.
• Remove the sides of the pan.
• In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy.
• Add confectioners’ sugar and cream; beat until smooth (do not over-beat).
• Remove the cake from the pan and place on a platter or cake stand.
• Ice top of the cake so that it resembles a frothy pint of beer.
• Refrigerate leftovers.
  

Source: Taste of Home

* Originally published in August 2017, last updated in March 2025.