Beer cake may not be the first dessert that comes to mind, but once you try it, you’ll be hooked. The rich flavor of beer adds depth and moisture to the cake while balancing the sweetness with a slight bitterness. Whether you love dark stouts, lagers, or fruity ales, there’s a beer cake recipe that will suit your taste.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Unique Flavor Profile – The beer adds complexity and richness that elevates the cake beyond your typical dessert.
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Moist and Tender Crumb – Thanks to the carbonation and liquid content in beer, the cake stays ultra-moist.
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Versatile Variations – You can make chocolate stout cake, apple ale spice cake, or even citrus IPA cake.
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Great for Celebrations – Perfect for parties, holidays, barbecues, and Father’s Day.
Ingredients List
For the Cake
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1 cup (240ml) dark stout beer (like Guinness)
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1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
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¾ cup (70g) unsweetened cocoa powder
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2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
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½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar
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¾ cup (180ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
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2 large eggs
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1 tbsp vanilla extract
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2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
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2½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
For the Frosting (Optional)
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8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
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½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
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2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tbsp beer (optional)
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 45 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
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Servings: 12 slices
Step-by-Step Instructions for Beer Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the pans with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Simmer Beer and Butter
In a medium saucepan, combine the beer and butter. Heat on medium until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and whisk in cocoa powder until smooth. Let cool for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, brown sugar, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla. Slowly add the cooled beer-butter-cocoa mixture while whisking continuously.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula or whisk until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s). Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 6: Frost and Decorate (Optional)
For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and beer (if using) and mix until fluffy. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake.
Choosing the Right Beer
Stout
Perfect for chocolate cakes. Adds richness and a roasted coffee-like undertone.
Lager
Lighter in color and flavor. Great for vanilla or spice cakes.
Ale or IPA
Fruity and sometimes bitter. Pair well with citrus, tropical fruits, or nutty flavors.
Variations to Try
Chocolate Beer Cake
Add chocolate chips to the batter and top with chocolate ganache instead of frosting.
Apple Ale Spice Cake
Use apple-flavored beer, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped apples for a warm fall cake.
Citrus IPA Cake
Add orange zest and use a citrusy IPA for a tangy twist. Great with a light glaze instead of frosting.
Tips for Success
Don’t Overmix
Overmixing causes dense cake. Mix just until everything is combined.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
They blend better, creating a smoother batter and consistent texture.
Choose Quality Beer
Avoid cheap beers with strong bitter aftertastes. Go for craft brews that complement sweet flavors.
Cool Before Frosting
Ensure the cake is completely cooled before adding frosting to avoid melting and mess.
Serving Suggestions
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Top with fresh whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
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Serve with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of beer gelato.
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Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
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Pair with a chilled glass of the same beer used in the cake.
Storing and Freezing
Storage
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing
Wrap unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Pairing Ideas
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Drinks: Stout, porter, spiced rum, Irish coffee
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Foods: Salted nuts, charcuterie boards, roasted meats
Making Beer Cupcakes
Turn this cake batter into beer cupcakes! Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and fill them ¾ full. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes. Frost with the same frosting or a buttercream of your choice.
Healthier Alternatives
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Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
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Substitute applesauce for half the butter.
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Reduce sugar slightly and enhance flavor with cinnamon or nutmeg.
FAQs
Can I make beer cake without alcohol?
Yes. Most alcohol bakes off during cooking, but for a non-alcoholic version, use non-alcoholic beer or soda (like root beer or cola).
What does beer do in a cake recipe?
Beer adds moisture, richness, and a deep flavor. Its carbonation also helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
Can I taste the beer in the cake?
It depends on the type of beer used. Darker beers (like stout) impart more noticeable flavors. Milder lagers will be subtler.
Is beer cake safe for kids?
The alcohol mostly bakes out, but for safety, use non-alcoholic beer if serving children.
Can I freeze beer cake?
Absolutely. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before serving.
What frosting goes well with beer cake?
Cream cheese, chocolate ganache, peanut butter frosting, or even a simple vanilla buttercream work well depending on the flavor of beer used.
Can I use boxed cake mix with beer?
Yes. Replace the water or liquid called for on the box with beer for an easy beer cake hack.
Conclusion
Beer cake is a fun, creative, and delicious way to bring a touch of the brewery to your dessert table. With endless variations, it’s a dessert that invites experimentation and customization. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake is easy to make and guaranteed to impress.