Indulgent Baileys Cake Recipe
Indulging in a slice of rich, decadent Baileys cake is the perfect way to elevate any occasion. This boozy dessert combines the iconic Irish cream liqueur with a moist, flavorful cake that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving a luxurious treat, this Baileys cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What makes this Baileys cake so irresistible? The key is the generous addition of the liqueur, which infuses the batter with its distinctive creamy, coffee-tinged notes. The result is a cake that’s moist, indulgent, and bursting with that unmistakable Baileys flavor. Plus, the optional Baileys buttercream frosting takes the experience to the next level, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and boozy bliss in every bite.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
Beyond the unbeatable Baileys flavor, this cake recipe offers several features that make it a standout choice. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions that even novice bakers can master. The versatility of this recipe is another major draw – it can be enjoyed as a decadent dessert, an elegant party centerpiece, or even a special breakfast treat.
What’s more, the Baileys cake delivers a delightful contrast of textures, with a tender, moist crumb and a rich, creamy frosting that melts in your mouth. And the best part? This recipe can be made in advance, making it a convenient option for busy hosts or those who want to get a head start on their dessert preparations.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Baileys Cake ❓
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup Baileys Irish Cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The beauty of this Baileys cake is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of flour, butter, sugar, and the iconic Baileys Irish Cream creates the indulgent, Irish-inspired flavor profile that has made boozy dessert recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Baileys Cake Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Step 5: Gradually add the Baileys Irish Cream and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well combined.
• Step 6: Slowly add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Be careful not to overmix.
• Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Step 8: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
• Total time: 45-50 minutes
Compared to traditional Irish cream-infused desserts that can take up to an hour to prepare, this Baileys cake saves you over 15 minutes of your cooking time while delivering similar indulgent flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Fat: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 203mg
These Baileys cakes provide approximately 17% of your daily carbohydrate requirements and 25% of your daily fat needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Substitute 1/2 cup of the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and a dairy-free Irish cream liqueur in the cake and frosting.
• Added protein: Fold in 1/2 cup of unflavored whey protein powder to the batter for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Grate and fold in 1 medium zucchini or carrot to the batter for added moisture and nutrients.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental Baileys-infused flavor profile of the cake.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the Baileys cake with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of Irish coffee for a decadent after-dinner treat.
• Complement the cake with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad for a more balanced dessert presentation.
• For a St. Patrick’s Day celebration, serve the Baileys cake alongside other Irish-inspired dishes and beverages.
• Create an elegant dessert platter with the Baileys cake, Irish cream truffles, and a selection of fresh berries.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Underbaking the cake: An undercooked cake will be gooey and may sink in the center. Use the toothpick test to ensure the cake is fully baked through.
• Overbaking the cake: Conversely, an overbaked cake will be dry and crumbly. Keep a close eye on the baking time and adjust as needed.
• Skipping the cooling process: Trying to frost the cake before it’s completely cooled can cause the frosting to melt and the cake to become a mess.
• Not adjusting the Baileys amount: Adding too much of the liqueur can result in a soggy, overly boozy cake. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These indulgent Baileys cakes retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the cake batter, pour it into the pan, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Freezing baked: Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: To restore the cake’s moist texture, reheat slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the Baileys cake in advance?
Absolutely! This cake recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. The frosting can also be made 1-2 days ahead and kept in the fridge until ready to assemble. Just be sure to allow the cake and frosting to come to room temperature before frosting and serving.
Can I substitute the Baileys with another liqueur?
While Baileys Irish Cream is the star ingredient in this recipe, you can experiment with other liqueurs if desired. Some good options include Kahlua (coffee-flavored), Amarula (cream-based), or even a whiskey or rum. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change accordingly, so you may need to adjust the amount used to achieve the desired taste.
Is this Baileys cake recipe gluten-free or dairy-free?
The standard recipe is not gluten-free or dairy-free, as it contains all-purpose flour and regular butter and Baileys Irish Cream. However, the “Healthier Alternatives” section provides suggestions for making this cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions, such as using almond flour or dairy-free substitutes.
Why is my Baileys cake sinking in the middle?
There are a few common reasons why cakes can sink in the middle: overbaking, underbaking, or too much liquid in the batter. Make sure to follow the baking time and temperature instructions carefully, and avoid overmixing the batter, which can incorporate too much air. If the cake is still sinking, try reducing the amount of Baileys by 2-3 tablespoons.
Can I add mix-ins or swirls to the Baileys cake?
Definitely! This recipe lends itself well to fun variations. Try folding in chopped pecans, chocolate chips, or crushed Oreos to the batter. You could also create a swirled effect by dolloping Baileys-flavored cream cheese or dulce de leche into the pan before baking. Just be mindful of not overfilling the pan and adjusting the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
These indulgent Baileys cakes represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a showstopping dessert at a dinner party or enjoying a slice as a special weekend treat, they’re sure to impress with their moist, boozy richness. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this Baileys cake demonstrates that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the mixing and baking process. So why not treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a slice of this decadent, Irish cream-infused delight? Your taste buds are sure to thank you.
Print
Indulgent Baileys Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Ingredients
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup Baileys Irish Cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Step 4: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Step 5: Gradually add the Baileys Irish Cream and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well combined.
• Step 6: Slowly add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Be careful not to overmix.
• Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Step 8: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Indulgent Baileys Cake Recipe
