Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate and the irresistible creaminess of an Irish favorite, look no further than this Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting Recipe. This decadent cake invites you to indulge in moist, tender chocolate layers soaked in Baileys Irish Cream, crowned with a luscious, velvety frosting that’s infused with just the right amount of that beloved Irish liqueur. It’s truly a celebration of flavors that feels both elegant and comfortingly familiar—a perfect treat for any special occasion or whenever you simply want to treat yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting Recipe is how straightforward yet thoughtful the ingredients are. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the rich chocolate flavor, moist texture, and that unmistakable hint of Irish cream that makes this cake so memorable.

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and fluffy body of the cake.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and enhances the chocolate’s depth.
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that intense, dark chocolate flavor.
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully for a light crumb.
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the acidity in cocoa for perfect lift and tenderness.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies other flavors.
• 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness.
• 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and creamy.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Adds tenderness and prevents dryness.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and rounds out flavors.
• 1 cup boiling water: Unlocks the cocoa powder’s full chocolate power.
• 1/2 cup Baileys Irish Cream: Infuses the cake with that signature Irish cream flavor.
• 1 cup unsalted butter (for frosting), softened: Creates a creamy, spreadable base for the buttercream.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
• 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream (for frosting): Adds flavor and moisture to the buttercream.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting): Enhances the overall taste with subtle vanilla notes.
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for frosting): Adjusts the frosting’s texture to silky and smooth.

How to Make Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This step might feel small, but it’s essential to ensure your cakes release easily after baking and look perfectly smooth.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Getting this blend right is key to that wonderfully balanced chocolate flavor and great texture.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Next, add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed just until everything is well combined. The mixture will start to come together here, promising moisture and richness.

Step 4: Stir in Boiling Water and Baileys

This is where the magic happens. Stir in the boiling water carefully (your batter will be quite thin—don’t worry, this means a moist cake) and then your half cup of Baileys Irish Cream. This liquid adds a subtle but unmistakable flavor that makes this cake shine.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans, smoothing the tops gently. Pop them into the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is simply divine.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool fully. Patience here pays off since frosting warm cake will melt the buttercream and create a mess.

Step 7: Make the Baileys Buttercream Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add your powdered sugar on a low speed to avoid clouds of sugar everywhere. When fully combined, pour in the Baileys Irish Cream and vanilla extract. Then crank up the mixer to high and beat until your frosting becomes fluffy and dreamy. If the texture feels too thick, slowly add 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream to reach that perfect spreadable consistency.

Step 8: Frost Your Cake

Finally, spread a generous layer of Baileys buttercream over the cooled cake layers. Stack them carefully and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides. This is where your cake transforms into a stunning centerpiece!

How to Serve Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the look and flavor, consider adding some garnishes. A dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted chocolate adds lovely visual contrast. You can also sprinkle some chocolate shavings or even crushed toasted hazelnuts for a crunchy bite that pairs wonderfully with the smooth frosting.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs perfectly with simple accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream helps balance the richness. For a festive feel, serve alongside refreshments that complement Baileys Irish Cream, like a hot cup of coffee or an iced Irish coffee cocktail.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Slice the cake into small squares and serve as elegant mini-bites on dessert plates. Or, create a trifle by layering the cake pieces with whipped Baileys cream and chocolate ganache. Presentation can really amplify the experience and make your Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting Recipe the star of any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your cake covered at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, it’s best to keep it in the fridge in an airtight container to preserve freshness without drying out. Just allow the cake to come back to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake either frosted or unfrosted. For easiest results, freeze the unfrosted layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then frost as usual. This makes the Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting Recipe perfect for planning ahead.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended. If you’d like to warm a slice, do so gently in short bursts in the microwave—just enough to take the chill off without melting the frosting completely.

FAQs

Can I substitute Baileys Irish Cream with another liqueur?

Absolutely! While Baileys gives this cake its signature flavor, other cream liqueurs like Kahlua or Amarula can work, adding their own unique twist. Just keep the quantity the same for balance.

Is this cake gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend of your choice, though the texture might vary slightly.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

You can make some substitutions, such as using a plant-based milk and dairy-free margarine or butter alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture might shift slightly, but the cake will still be delicious!

How long does the frosting hold up at room temperature?

The Baileys Buttercream Frosting is best enjoyed within two days when kept covered at room temperature. Beyond that, it’s safer to refrigerate it to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

What’s the best way to get even cake layers?

When pouring the batter into pans, smooth the tops with a spatula and tap the pans gently on the counter to release any bubbles. After baking, if the layers have domed, carefully level them with a serrated knife for a flawless stack.

Final Thoughts

This Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting Recipe is a true showstopper, combining the deep richness of chocolate with the silky charm of Baileys in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving a decadent treat, this cake is guaranteed to bring smiles and happy hearts. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite indulgence!

Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake with Baileys Buttercream Frosting Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 82 reviews

• Author: admin
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Irish-inspired

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

---

Description

This rich and decadent Baileys Irish Cream Chocolate Cake features moist chocolate layers infused with Baileys Irish Cream and is topped with a luscious Baileys buttercream frosting. Perfect for chocolate and Baileys lovers looking to create an indulgent dessert with a boozy twist.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup Baileys Irish Cream

For Baileys Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2–3 tbsp heavy cream (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes don’t stick after baking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined.
3. Add wet ingredients: Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed using a mixer until the batter is smooth and well combined.
4. Incorporate hot water and Baileys: Carefully stir in the boiling water followed by the Baileys Irish Cream. The batter will be quite thin, which is normal for this recipe.
5. Divide batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans, distributing it as evenly as possible for uniform layers.
6. Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cakes are properly baked.
7. Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove them from the pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
8. Prepare the frosting – beat butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until it becomes creamy and smooth.
9. Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, beating on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud until fully incorporated.
10. Add Baileys and vanilla: Mix in the Baileys Irish Cream and vanilla extract. Then beat on high speed until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable.
11. Adjust consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until reaching your preferred consistency for spreading.
12. Frost the cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, evenly frost the layers and top the cake with the Baileys buttercream frosting, smoothing or decorating as desired.

---

Notes

• Ensure the cakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
• You can substitute vegetable oil with melted unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
• For a stronger Baileys flavor, consider brushing each cake layer with additional Baileys before frosting.
• Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
• This cake can also be made in a 9×13 inch pan; adjust baking time accordingly (around 35-40 minutes).