Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake has been my go-to dessert for cozy nights and holiday gatherings ever since I first tasted its rich, decadent flavor. I remember my first attempt at making this Baileys Irish Cream coffee cake; the aroma of chocolate and coffee filling my kitchen was absolutely intoxicating! This cake is incredibly moist, with a deep chocolate flavor that’s perfectly balanced by a bold coffee undertone and that unmistakable, velvety finish from the Baileys. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you want to curl up with a good book and a warm drink. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake
This isn’t just any cake; it’s an experience! Get ready to fall in love with its incredible qualities:
- Rich, Decadent Flavor: The perfect marriage of deep chocolate, bold coffee, and smooth Baileys.
- Incredibly Moist Texture: Thanks to the sour cream and Baileys, this cake stays tender.
- Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a pastry chef for this Baileys coffee cake recipe.
- Festive Appeal: It’s a showstopper that’s perfect for holidays and celebrations.
- Impress Your Guests: Serve this Baileys Irish Cream coffee cake and watch them rave.
- A Crowd-Pleaser: Who can resist chocolate, coffee, and Baileys all in one delicious bite?
- Perfect for Cozy Nights: This Baileys coffee cake recipe is ideal for a relaxing evening.
Baileys Coffee Cake Ingredients
Gathering the right Baileys coffee cake ingredients is the first step to baking this delightful dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – the base of our cake structure
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder – for lift and a tender crumb
- ½ tsp baking soda – works with acidic ingredients for leavening
- ½ tsp salt – enhances all the other flavors
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened – essential for richness and texture
- 1 cup brown sugar – adds moisture and a caramel note
- ½ cup granulated sugar – for balanced sweetness
- 2 large eggs – binds everything together
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – a classic flavor enhancer
- ⅔ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled – provides that deep coffee flavor
- ¼ cup Baileys Irish Cream – the star ingredient for that signature taste
- ½ cup sour cream – crucial for a moist and tender cake
- ½ cup cocoa powder – for that rich chocolate goodness
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar – creates a smooth, sweet glaze
- 2–3 tbsp Baileys Irish Cream – for that extra Baileys kick
- Splash of brewed coffee (optional for extra richness) – deepens the glaze flavor
How to Make Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake
Ready to create this masterpiece? Follow these simple steps to bring this incredible Baileys coffee cake to life. It’s easier than you think!
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking vessel by generously greasing a 9-inch bundt pan or lining a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. This ensures your beautiful creation doesn’t stick.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp salt, and ½ cup cocoa powder. Giving these dry ingredients a good whisk ensures they’re evenly distributed for a perfectly consistent cake. Set this mixture aside.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, grab your electric mixer and cream together the ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar. Beat them until the mixture is wonderfully light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender crumb.
- Step 4: Now, add the 2 large eggs one at a time, making sure to mix thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the 1 tsp vanilla extract and the ¼ cup Baileys Irish Cream. You’ll start to smell that irresistible aroma!
- Step 5: It’s time to bring it all together! In three alternating additions, add the dry ingredients (from Step 2) and the wet ingredients (½ cup sour cream and ⅔ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled) to the creamed butter mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed or by hand just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cake! This is where the magic happens for how to make Baileys chocolate coffee cake.
- Step 6: Pour your glorious batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 40–50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges are pulling away slightly from the pan. The cake should smell absolutely heavenly.
- Step 7: Let your masterpiece cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set up slightly before you attempt to remove it. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here is key for the best glaze application.
- Step 8: While the cake cools, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tbsp Baileys Irish Cream and a splash of brewed coffee if you’re feeling extra decadent. Whisk until smooth and pourable. Drizzle this luscious glaze generously over the completely cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides. Enjoy your beautiful Baileys coffee cake with chocolate!
Pro Tips for the Best Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake
To ensure your cake turns out absolutely perfect every time, here are a few insider tips. Following these simple steps will elevate your baking game and guarantee a delicious outcome for this Baileys coffee cake recipe.
- Always use room temperature ingredients like butter, eggs, and sour cream. This helps them emulsify better, creating a smoother batter and a more tender cake.
- Measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake.
- Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the bake time to prevent it from drying out. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Let the cake cool completely before glazing. Applying glaze to a warm cake will cause it to melt and slide off, rather than creating that beautiful, tempting drizzle.
What’s the secret to a moist Baileys moist chocolate coffee cake?
The keys to a truly moist Baileys moist chocolate coffee cake are the sour cream and the Baileys Irish Cream itself. These ingredients add fat and liquid that the flour absorbs, keeping the cake incredibly tender and preventing it from drying out during baking. It’s a simple trick from the Baileys coffee cake recipe that makes a huge difference.
Can I make Baileys chocolate coffee cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Once completely cooled and glazed, you can store it at room temperature, well-covered, for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for make-ahead desserts or meal prep.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Baileys coffee cake?
The most common pitfalls include overmixing the batter, which develops gluten and makes the cake tough, and overbaking, which dries it out. Always mix until *just* combined. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate; an oven thermometer can be a lifesaver for consistent baking results with any Baileys coffee cake recipe.
Best Ways to Serve Baileys Coffee Cake
This decadent cake is wonderful on its own, but serving it with a few complementary touches truly elevates the experience. For a truly special treat, consider these Baileys coffee cake serving suggestions. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream provides a cool contrast to the rich, warm flavors. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve a slice alongside a warm cup of coffee or a small glass of Baileys Irish Cream liqueur itself.
Nutrition Facts for Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake
This rich and decadent cake offers a delightful treat. Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving (based on 10–12 slices):
- Calories: 360
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 210mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Baileys coffee cake recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake
Storing this delightful cake properly ensures you can enjoy its rich flavor for days to come. Proper Baileys coffee cake recipe storage is key to maintaining its deliciousness. First, always let the cake cool completely on a wire rack after glazing. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bring slices to room temperature for about 30 minutes, or gently warm them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes until slightly warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake
Got questions about this delightful dessert? Here are some common queries about my favorite Baileys Irish Cream coffee cake:
Can I make this Baileys chocolate coffee cake without Baileys?
Yes! If you prefer a non-alcoholic version or don’t have Baileys on hand, you can easily substitute it. Use an equal amount of Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer for a similar flavor profile. Another option is to use a bit more strong coffee and a splash of vanilla extract to compensate for the liquid and flavor.
How do I get a really smooth Baileys chocolate drizzle cake topping?
For that perfect drizzle, the key is the consistency of your glaze. Make sure your cake is completely cool before you start. Whisk the powdered sugar and Baileys together gradually, adding the liquid just a tablespoon at a time until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency that isn’t too thin. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more Baileys or coffee; if it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
What kind of coffee is best for this Baileys coffee cake recipe?
For the best flavor in this Baileys coffee cake recipe, I highly recommend using freshly brewed espresso or a very strong brewed coffee. The bolder the coffee flavor, the more it will complement the chocolate and the Baileys, creating a richer, more complex taste profile. Instant coffee granules dissolved in hot water can also work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite as deep.
Variations of Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake You Can Try
This amazing cake is fantastic as is, but I love experimenting! Here are a few ways to put your own spin on this Baileys coffee cake with chocolate. For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, so keep an eye on the batter consistency. If you’re looking for a dairy-free twist, use plant-based butter, a dairy-free milk alternative for the coffee component (like almond or oat milk), and a dairy-free sour cream substitute. And for an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter before baking!
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Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake: 1 Amazing Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10–12 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and luxurious Baileys chocolate coffee cake that brings the spirit of the holidays into your kitchen. This moist and tender cake features a deep chocolate flavor with a bold coffee undertone and a velvety finish from Baileys Irish Cream.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅔ cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- ¼ cup Baileys Irish Cream
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp Baileys Irish Cream
- Splash of brewed coffee (optional for extra richness)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch bundt pan or line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and Baileys Irish Cream.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the sour cream and cooled coffee, beginning and ending with dry. Stir just until everything is incorporated.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with Baileys (and a splash of coffee if using) until smooth and pourable. Drizzle generously over the cooled cake.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if desired.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace Baileys with an Irish cream-flavored coffee creamer.
- Use fresh espresso for a more vibrant coffee flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter.
- Let the cake cool fully before glazing.
- This cake tastes better the next day as flavors deepen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 32g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 4g
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