Guinness Cake

Guinness Cake Recipe - Traditional Irish Dessert

Region / culture: Ireland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Guinness Cake is a rich and decadent dessert that combines the deep, malty flavors of Guinness stout with the sweetness of chocolate. This cake is perfect for St. Patrick's Day celebrations or any time you want a unique and delicious dessert.

History

The origins of Guinness Cake are a bit murky, but it is believed to have originated in Ireland, where Guinness stout is a popular beverage. The rich, dark flavor of the stout pairs perfectly with the chocolate in this cake, creating a unique and indulgent dessert.

Ingredients

2 cups flour
2 cups sugar
1 cup stout Guinness
0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa
0.75 cup sour cream
10 tsp unsalted butter
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.25 tsp salt
2 eggs

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine Guinness and butter.
Hold the bowl over medium heat.
Add sugar and cocoa to the mixture and blend well.
In another bowl, mix sour cream, vanilla extract, and eggs.
Add the sour cream mixture to the Guinness mixture.
Add baking soda and flour to the mixture.
Whisk the mixture well.
Pour the mixture into a large cake pan.
Bake for 45 minutes.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture.
Top the cake with a cream cheese frosting for an extra decadent treat.
Use a different type of stout or beer for a unique flavor twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for the best results.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.

- If you don't have Guinness on hand, you can substitute with another dark beer or even coffee.

- Be sure to grease and flour your cake pan to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Guinness Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to properly mix the wet and dry ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.

- Bake the cake in a preheated oven for even cooking.

- Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use buttermilk or yogurt in place of sour cream.

- Margarine can be used instead of butter.

- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the Guinness with coffee.

Make Ahead Tips

Guinness Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a decorative touch. You can also garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries.

Pairing Recommendations

Guinness Cake pairs well with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee. It also goes well with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Guinness Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven at a low temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Guinness Cake contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Guinness Cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Guinness Cake contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Guinness Cake contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Guinness Cake is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals.

Alergens

Guinness Cake contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.

Summary

Guinness Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Guinness Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or anytime you want a unique and delicious treat. With its deep, malty flavor and moist texture, this cake is sure to be a hit with chocolate lovers and beer enthusiasts alike.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Guinness Cake. It was a rainy afternoon in Ireland, and I had sought shelter in a cozy little pub in the countryside. As I sat by the crackling fire, sipping on a pint of Guinness, the aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air. Intrigued, I asked the bartender about the source of such delightful scents.

To my surprise, he pointed towards the kitchen and told me that the landlady, Mrs. O'Malley, was known for her famous Guinness Cake. My curiosity piqued, I politely asked if I could have the recipe. Mrs. O'Malley, a kind-hearted woman with a twinkle in her eye, agreed to share her secret with me.

She led me into the kitchen, where she had all the ingredients laid out neatly on the counter. The rich aroma of dark chocolate and Guinness filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation. Mrs. O'Malley began to measure out the flour, sugar, butter, and of course, the star ingredient - Guinness stout.

As she mixed the ingredients together, she shared with me the story of how she learned to make Guinness Cake. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations of her family, originating from her great-grandmother who had been a baker in Dublin. Mrs. O'Malley spoke fondly of her childhood spent helping her grandmother in the kitchen, learning the art of baking and the importance of using quality ingredients.

I listened intently as she explained the process of making the cake - how the Guinness added a depth of flavor and richness to the chocolate, creating a moist and decadent dessert that was perfect for any occasion. Mrs. O'Malley emphasized the importance of patience and precision in baking, urging me to take my time and savor the process.

After the cake had baked to perfection and cooled on a wire rack, Mrs. O'Malley generously offered me a slice to taste. The first bite was pure bliss - the velvety chocolate melted in my mouth, complemented by the subtle bitterness of the Guinness. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more.

I thanked Mrs. O'Malley profusely for sharing her recipe with me, promising to cherish it and pass it down to future generations. As I left the pub that day, the rain had stopped, and the sun peeked through the clouds, casting a warm glow over the rolling green hills of the Irish countryside. I felt a sense of gratitude for the serendipitous encounter that had led me to discover such a treasure of a recipe.

Since that day, I have made Guinness Cake countless times, sharing it with friends and family who have all marveled at its deliciousness. Each bite brings back memories of that rainy afternoon in Ireland, and I am reminded of the magical power of food to connect us to our past and create lasting memories.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of my kitchen, I can't help but smile as I prepare to bake another batch of Guinness Cake. The scent of chocolate and Guinness fills the air, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. And as I take that first bite, I am transported back to that quaint little pub in Ireland, where a kind-hearted landlady shared her secret recipe with me, forever changing the way I view baking and the joy it brings to those around me.