Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake

Name: Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: Nonstick baking spray, for greasing the pan; 199 grams granulated sugar; 213 grams light brown sugar, packed; 240 grams all-purpose flour; 84 grams unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons espresso powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon fine salt; 5 large eggs, at room temperature; 227 grams full-fat sour cream, at room temperature; 227 millilitres Guinness beer; 170 millilitres vegetable oil; 113 millilitres whole milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 227 grams unsalted butter, at room temperature (for buttercream); 284 grams confectioners’ sugar, sifted (for buttercream); 42 millilitres Baileys Irish Cream liqueur (for buttercream); 14 millilitres whole milk, at room temperature (for buttercream); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for buttercream); 0.25 teaspoon fine salt (for buttercream); 113 grams high-quality white chocolate, melted and slightly cooled (for buttercream); 199 grams granulated sugar (for caramel); 113 millilitres water (for caramel); 113 grams unsalted butter, cold and cubed (for caramel); 170 millilitres heavy whipping cream (for caramel); 28 millilitres Irish whiskey (for caramel); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for caramel); 0.25 teaspoon fine salt (for caramel)

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: February 11, 2026

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Introduction to Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake

Do you ever feel like you need a little magic in your life? That’s exactly how I felt when I stumbled upon this Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake recipe. Trust me, life gets busy, and finding a showstopper for those special moments or even just a Tuesday can be a challenge. This decadent cake, rich with chocolate and a touch of Irish spirit, is not just a dessert—it’s an experience. Its luscious texture and deep flavors promise to wow your loved ones, making any gathering memorable. Let me share my journey into this delightful recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake

This Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake is a total game-changer for busy moms and professionals like us. It’s incredibly simple, allowing you to mix up a stunning dessert without pouring hours into the kitchen. Plus, its rich flavors—think smooth chocolate swirled with a hint of beer—will impress even the pickiest eaters. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight, this cake is sure to elevate any moment into something special.

Ingredients for Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake

Gathering the right ingredients is half the battle in creating a scrumptious Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

Nonstick baking spray: Essential for preventing stickiness and ensuring that your cake comes out perfectly.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture; don’t skimp on this!
Light brown sugar: The depth of flavor from brown sugar complements the chocolate beautifully.

All-purpose flour: A must for structure; it supports the amazing texture of the cake.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This is where the chocolate magic happens, so choose high-quality for the best flavor.
Espresso powder: Just a dash enhances the chocolate’s richness; it’s an unexpected hero in this recipe!

Baking soda and baking powder: These are your leavening agents, giving the cake that lovely lift.
Fine salt: A pinch helps to balance the sweetness and elevate flavors.
Large eggs: Always at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

Full-fat sour cream: Adds moisture and a delightful tang; it’s a game changer!
Guinness beer: Here’s the secret ingredient! It infuses a deep flavor that works wonders with chocolate.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist; you could substitute with melted butter if you prefer.

Whole milk: Ensures creaminess; it blends beautifully with the other wet ingredients.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Unsalted butter (for buttercream): Always use unsalted for better control over the final taste.

Confectioners’ sugar: Essential for that fluffy buttercream texture; make sure to sift it!
Baileys Irish Cream liqueur: This luscious addition makes your buttercream indulgently creamy and delicious.
Whole milk (for buttercream): A touch of milk helps achieve the silky consistency for frosting.

High-quality white chocolate: Adds a sweet richness to the buttercream, optional but highly recommended!
Optional for caramel: Granulated sugar, water, cold butter, heavy cream, Irish whiskey, vanilla extract, and fine salt. These ingredients create a silky, salted caramel that takes your cake to the next level.

For exact measurements of each ingredient, check out the end of the article where you’ll find everything listed for easy printing!

How to Make Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake

Ready to dive into the deliciousness of your very own Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake? Follow these simple steps to create your masterpiece!

Prepare the Bundt Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 165°C (or 325°F). This ensures your cake bakes evenly.

Next, grab your 10-cup bundt pan and grease it generously with nonstick baking spray. Get into those nooks and crannies, so the cake pops out easily later. You can also dust the pan lightly with flour for added insurance.

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, baking powder, and fine salt. This step is essential for getting rid of any lumps. Mixing everything together ensures your chocolate cake has a uniform texture.

Combining the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the large eggs, full-fat sour cream, Guinness, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and well-blended. This rich wet mixture works its magic when combined with the dry ingredients.

Merging Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix. Using a spatula, gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! The key to a moist cake is to leave a few small flour specks. Just until you don’t see any dry patches is what you’re aiming for.

Baking the Cake

Transfer your batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Slide it into the oven and bake for about 50 minutes.

To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready! If it sticks, give it another five minutes. Remember, patience is key here.

Cooling and Frosting

Once the cake is baked, let it rest in the pan for 15 minutes. This helps it set before transferring.

Carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack to cool completely. While that’s happening, whip up your Baileys buttercream and, if you choose, the optional Irish whiskey salted caramel. Spread or pipe the buttercream on your cooled cake, and finish with a generous drizzle of caramel.

Your Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake is now ready to be sliced and savored. Trust me; everyone will be asking for seconds!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better rise.

When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level off with a knife to avoid excess.

Keep an eye on your cake during baking; ovens can vary, so a toothpick test is your best friend!
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out Guinness for another stout for a different twist!

Add chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey surprise in every bite!

Equipment Needed for Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake

10-cup bundt pan: Essential for the signature shape; a tube or fluted pan works too!
Mixing bowls: Get a set in various sizes to handle wet and dry ingredients.

Whisk and spatula: Great for mixing and folding ingredients without overworking the batter.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
Toothpick: Perfect for checking if your cake is done; a cake tester would work as well!

Variations of Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake

Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free sour cream and plant-based butter in the frosting for a delightful dairy-free treat.
Chocolate Lovers Delight: Add chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for an extra chocolatey experience!

Minty Fresh Twist: Incorporate some peppermint extract into the buttercream for a refreshing mint chocolate flavor.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture contrast that complements the cake.
Caramel Swirl: Before baking, drop spoonfuls of prepared salted caramel into the batter and swirl with a knife for a luscious surprise.

Fruity Flavor: Mix in mashed bananas or applesauce for added moisture and a hint of natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake

Pair with vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the rich chocolate beautifully.
Serve with fresh berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries balances the sweetness of the cake.

Enhance with whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that pairs well.
Enjoy with coffee or espresso: The coffee notes and Guinness will elevate your dessert experience.
Presentation tip: Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish and extra sweetness!

FAQs about Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake

Got questions about this Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake? Here are a few inquiries I see often, along with my helpful answers!

Can I substitute Guinness with another type of beer?

Absolutely! While Guinness gives this cake its unique flavor, you can use any stout beer. Experiment with different brands to find your favorite taste while baking!

How can I store leftovers of the Bundt cake?

Keep the cake stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need it to last longer, consider refrigerating, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Is this cake suitable for kids?

Yes! The alcohol in the Guinness bakes off, leaving behind that rich chocolate flavor, making it safe for kids to enjoy. They’ll love the delightful sweetness!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Definitely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just frost right before serving for optimal freshness and creaminess.

How do I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Guinness Chocolate Bundt Cake feels like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly day. Every bite offers a taste of rich chocolate, perfectly balanced by the hint of Guinness. It’s not just dessert; it’s a reason to gather, celebrate, and share laughter. Whether it’s an everyday treat or a centerpiece for a special occasion, this cake adds a touch of magic to your table. So, roll up your sleeves and bake it yourself. I promise, the joy you bring to smiles around you will be worth every moment spent in the kitchen.