Imagine a cake so rich, moist, and bursting with the irresistible flavor of Baileys Irish Cream that it’s almost too good to be true. Well, dream no more, because this 30-Minute, Hearty Baileys Cake Recipe is here to make your dessert dreams a delicious reality. Prepare to be the star of any gathering with this effortlessly impressive treat that’s sure to leave your guests craving more.
As the intoxicating aroma of this Baileys-infused cake fills the air, your senses will be instantly transported to a cozy Irish pub, complete with the warmth of a crackling fire and the lively chatter of friends. But don’t be fooled – this indulgent cake is easy enough to whip up in your own kitchen, no matter your baking expertise. With just a few simple ingredients and a short amount of time, you’ll be enjoying a slice (or two) of this decadent delight.
So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your mixing bowls, and get ready to impress with this 30-Minute, Hearty Baileys Cake Recipe. Trust us, your taste buds and your guests will thank you.
✨ The Secret Behind This Irresistible Dish
The secret to this mouthwatering Baileys Cake is the perfect balance of rich, creamy Baileys Irish Cream and a tender, moist crumb. The Baileys not only infuses the cake with its signature flavor, but it also helps to keep the texture delightfully soft and tender. Unlike some dense, heavy cakes, this recipe results in a delicate, almost airy crumb that practically melts in your mouth.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. The addition of a few key ingredients, like sour cream and a touch of espresso powder, elevates this cake to a whole new level of decadence. The sour cream adds a subtle tang that perfectly complements the sweetness of the Baileys, while the espresso powder enhances the chocolate notes to create a truly complex and satisfying flavor profile.
Ingredients
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) Baileys Irish Cream
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
• 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (or 1 tablespoon strong brewed coffee)
The key to this Baileys Cake’s incredible texture is the use of all-purpose flour. The protein content in all-purpose flour helps to create a sturdy yet tender crumb, allowing the cake to rise beautifully without becoming too dense or heavy. For an extra boost of Baileys flavor, feel free to substitute the sour cream with an equal amount of Baileys Irish Cream. Just be sure to adjust the overall liquid ratio if making this substitution.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Eggs: One at a time, beat the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture until each is fully incorporated.
- Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Baileys Irish Cream, sour cream, and espresso powder (or brewed coffee) until combined. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the butter-sugar-egg mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Again, be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough, dense texture.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Timing Overview
• Cook time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 12 servings.
• Protein: 4 g
• Sodium: 220 mg
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 1 g
🌱 Recipe Adaptations for Every Diet
• To Make it Vegan: Replace the butter with a vegan butter alternative, the eggs with flax or chia eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water), and the sour cream with a vegan sour cream substitute or full-fat coconut milk. Be sure to use a vegan Baileys-style liqueur as well.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a subtle warmth that complements the Baileys flavor.
✨ How to Serve This Dish Like a Pro ?
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the cake with a dusting of cocoa powder, a drizzle of salted caramel sauce, or a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. For an extra special touch, top it with shaved chocolate or a sprinkling of toasted nuts.
• Beverage Pairing: This Baileys Cake pairs wonderfully with a glass of full-bodied red wine, such as a smooth Cabernet Sauvignon or a bold Malbec. Alternatively, a shot of chilled Baileys Irish Cream or a classic Irish coffee makes for a decadent accompaniment.
🔍 Troubleshooting Common Recipe Issues
🥡 Smart Storage for Maximum Flavor
• Freezing: This cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: To reheat the cake, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds.
❓ FAQs
Can I substitute the Baileys Irish Cream with another type of liqueur?
While Baileys Irish Cream is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other creamy liqueurs as well. Try replacing the Baileys with an equal amount of Kahlua, Amarula, or even a coffee-flavored rum for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the overall texture and moisture content of the cake may be slightly affected by the substitution.
How can I make this cake even more moist and tender?
For an extra-moist and tender crumb, consider replacing the sour cream with an equal amount of full-fat Greek yogurt. The higher fat content of the Greek yogurt will help to keep the cake incredibly soft and rich. You can also try adding a tablespoon of vegetable or canola oil to the batter for additional moisture and a tender crumb.
Can I bake this cake in a different pan size?
Absolutely! This recipe can be baked in a variety of pan sizes. For a 9×13-inch rectangular pan, increase the baking time to 35-40 minutes. For a Bundt or tube pan, bake for 40-45 minutes. Just be sure to use the toothpick test to check for doneness, as baking times may vary depending on the pan size and oven.
How can I make this cake extra decadent?
To take this Baileys Cake to the next level of indulgence, consider adding a Baileys-infused frosting or glaze. Whip together softened butter, powdered sugar, and a generous splash of Baileys for a creamy, boozy topping. You can also drizzle the cooled cake with a simple Baileys-infused ganache or caramel sauce.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! This Baileys Cake is the perfect make-ahead dessert. You can bake the cake up to 5 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. If you’d like to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
💌 Enjoy Your Delicious Creation!
Whether you’re hosting a cozy St. Patrick’s Day gathering, a sophisticated dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a decadent dessert, this 30-Minute, Hearty Baileys Cake is sure to impress. The moist, tender crumb and the irresistible Baileys flavor will have your guests swooning with delight. So go ahead, indulge in a slice (or two) of this truly special cake – your taste buds will thank you!
Sláinte! (Cheers!)
30-Minute, Hearty Baileys Cake Recipe
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- One at a time, beat the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture until each is fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Baileys Irish Cream, sour cream, and espresso powder (or brewed coffee) until combined. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the butter-sugar-egg mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Again, be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough, dense texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
