Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes with Mocha Guinness Buttercream
When it comes to indulgent desserts, few things tickle the senses quite like a decadent cupcake. These Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes with Mocha Guinness Buttercream deliver a combination of rich chocolate flavor and a hint of malty complexity from the Guinness that creates a unique taste experience. Imagine biting into a soft, moist chocolate cupcake, with the sweet aroma wafting through the air as each bite melts in your mouth, finishing with a luscious mocha buttercream that has a playful kick from the stout. It’s a celebration of flavors that’s not just for St. Patrick’s Day; these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a birthday, a cozy family gathering, or simply an evening when your sweet tooth needs satisfaction.
Are you craving something irresistibly rich and chocolatey?
Imagine the sound of laughter and chatter as friends and family gather around a table filled with beautifully frosted cupcakes—a true indulgence that pleases the eye and the palate. Are you ready to dive into a dessert that never fails to impress, one that’s sure to have you making a second batch just to satisfy those cravings? Let these Guinness chocolate cupcakes tantalize your taste buds while lifting your spirits, creating new memories that will stick with you long after the last crumb is devoured.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a home run for so many reasons:
- Easy Prep: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, baking these delights is a breeze for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of chocolate and Guinness makes these cupcakes a sure hit at gatherings.
- Minimal Ingredients: Using simple pantry staples, you won’t find yourself hunting down obscure ingredients.
- Rich and Decadent Flavor: These cupcakes boast an irresistible depth of flavor, thanks to the pairing of stout and chocolate.
- Memorable Presentation: Topped with a swirly dollop of mocha buttercream, they don’t just taste good, they look stunning too.
Ingredients
- One 12-ounce bottle of Guinness beer: Adds that iconic depth.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cupcakes.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder: For that rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons espresso powder: Enhances the chocolate notes.
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda: Provides lift for those fluffy cupcakes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the cupcakes moist.
- 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar: Adds caramel notes and moisture.
- 2 large eggs: The binding agent in your cupcake creation.
- 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream: Ensures richness and moisture.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and flavor.
- 2 Tablespoons reduced Guinness: Intensifies that stout goodness in the batter.
- 2 teaspoons espresso powder: For a richer mocha taste in the frosting.
- 1 and 1/4 cups unsalted butter: The star of your Mocha Guinness Buttercream frosting.
- 4 and 1/2 cups confectioners sugar: Sweetness with a smooth texture.
- 1 Tablespoon unsweetened natural cocoa powder: Adds depth to the frosting.
- 1 Tablespoon milk: Ensures the right consistency in your buttercream.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: More flavor for your frosting.
- Pinch of salt: To heighten the flavors.
Each ingredient works in concert to create an unforgettable dessert experience that is richer and more satisfying than the last!
Timing
When you’re in the mood for a quick yet extravagant treat, these cupcakes come together surprisingly fast. With preparation taking approximately 20 minutes and baking time around 20 minutes, you can indulge without the wait. However, you might just want to slow down and savor each moment, especially when it comes to whipping up that luscious buttercream frosting. Allowing these cupcakes to cool completely before frosted only enhances their irresistible charm.
Step-by-Step
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In a small saucepan, bring the Guinness to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium heat and simmer until reduced down to 2/3 cup (about 20 minutes). Set 1/2 cup aside to cool for 10-15 minutes before using in the batter.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 12-count muffin pan with cupcake liners, plus a second pan with 4 liners.
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In a large bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt together until combined. The earthy aromas will envelop you like a warm blanket of chocolate goodness.
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In a medium bowl, whisk the oil, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth. This wet mixture is the key to your airy cupcake texture.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, add the 1/2 cup reduced Guinness, and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are your friend here.
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Pour the batter into the liners, filling each 2/3 full, ensuring they rise perfectly in the oven to become voluminous delights. Bake for 19-22 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Make the frosting by mixing the butter on high speed until smooth. Add the confectioners sugar, cocoa powder, milk, reduced Guinness, espresso powder, and vanilla extract; beat until creamy and light.
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Frost the cooled cupcakes generously. A swirl of mocha buttercream, elegantly piled high, is what dreams are made of. Leftover cupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but we all know how hard it is to resist!
Nutritional Information
Each decadent cupcake contains roughly 350-400 calories, making them a delightful indulgence for those who appreciate the finer things in life. It’s a reminder that sometimes it’s okay to treat yourself, especially when it comes to desserts that can easily steal the show.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for a more health-conscious version of these cupcakes, consider the following swaps to keep the indulgence while reducing the guilt:
- Use a sugar substitute or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Substitute applesauce or Greek yogurt for sour cream, reducing the fat content.
- Opt for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- For dairy-free options, there are plant-based butters and milks available that will still allow the cupcakes to shine!
Serving Suggestions
These Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes are perfect for a multitude of occasions. Serve them up at holiday festivities or casual weeknight dessert. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast in flavors, or enjoy alongside a glass of milk like you did as a kid. The versatility of these cupcakes makes them a stellar dessert for any season or gathering.
Common Mistakes
No one wants their baking experience to turn into a culinary disaster!
- Overbaking: Causing dryness. Keep an eye on baking time and use a toothpick to test.
- Texture Issues: Mixing too much can lead to dense cupcakes. Be gentle!
- Messy Frosting: Instead of slathering, use a piping bag for a clean and polished finish.
Storing Tips
To ensure your delicious cupcakes stay fresh:
- Freezing Portions: Place cupcakes in an airtight container and freeze for up to a month.
- Reheating Instructions: To enjoy a chilled cupcake, let it sit out for a bit or warm it in the microwave for just a few seconds for that freshly baked feel.
Tempted to Bake These Cupcakes ASAP?
The flavors, colors, and textures of these Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes with Mocha Guinness Buttercream invite you to gather your friends and create moments filled with laughter and joy. As you pluck one from the tray and slowly savor every bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is destined for your centerpiece dessert spread. There’s no time like the present to dive into an adventure of baking bliss.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of beer?
Absolutely! You can substitute Guinness with any stout or even a porter for a different depth of flavor.
2. Can I make these cupcakes in advance?
Yes! They can be baked a day ahead. Just frost them on the day you plan to serve for the best presentation.
3. How do I keep the cupcakes moist?
Always use fresh ingredients and avoid overbaking. Adding sour cream also drastically improves moisture.
4. What’s the best way to frost the cupcakes?
A piping bag with a large star tip creates a beautiful swirl, but a simple spread with a knife is also delightful!
5. Can I skip the coffee flavor entirely?
While espresso powder enhances the cocoa, you can omit it and still enjoy chocolatey goodness, but the final product may not be as complex.
Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes with Mocha Guinness Buttercream
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in decadent Guinness Chocolate Cupcakes topped with a rich Mocha Guinness Buttercream, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 12-ounce bottle of Guinness beer
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons espresso powder
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup full-fat sour cream
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons reduced Guinness
- 2 teaspoons espresso powder (for frosting)
- 1 and 1/4 cups unsalted butter
- 4 and 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened natural cocoa powder (for frosting)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, bring the Guinness to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce to medium heat and simmer until reduced down to 2/3 cup (about 20 minutes). Set 1/2 cup aside to cool for 10-15 minutes before using in the batter.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 12-count muffin pan with cupcake liners, plus a second pan with 4 liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, and salt together until combined.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the oil, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, add the 1/2 cup reduced Guinness, and whisk until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the liners, filling each 2/3 full. Bake for 19-22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Make the frosting by mixing the butter on high speed until smooth. Then add the confectioners sugar, cocoa powder, milk, reduced Guinness, espresso powder, and vanilla extract; beat until creamy.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes generously with the Mocha Guinness Buttercream.
Notes
Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. Leftover cupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
