Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake Recipe

Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake, where rich cocoa flavors dance with the creamy warmth of Baileys Irish Cream and the subtle bitterness of coffee. This cake is an absolute showstopper for any occasion, blending moist chocolate layers with a luscious Baileys-infused buttercream that makes every bite feel indulgent yet comforting. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply craving a decadent treat, this Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake is the perfect blend of sophistication and coziness in dessert form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake just right comes down to a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the cake’s deep chocolate flavor, tender crumb, and that silky frosting you’ll want to savor over and over.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure that holds everything together, giving the cake its light yet sturdy texture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds an intense chocolate richness that forms the backbone of the cake’s flavor.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to create the perfect rise and keep the crumb airy and soft.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors, balancing sweetness and chocolate depth.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake just enough while helping to keep it moist and tender.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and lend richness for that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and ensures a wonderful, dense but soft crumb.
• Buttermilk: Adds tang and moisture, tenderizing the crumb beautifully; you can substitute with milk and a splash of lemon juice.
• Strong brewed coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a subtle aromatic depth.
• Baileys Irish Cream: The star ingredient infusing the cake and frosting with that signature creamy, boozy warmth.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor profile with a smooth, sweet aroma.
• Unsalted butter (for frosting): The base for a rich, creamy finish.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting for that flawless texture.
• Cocoa powder (for frosting): Keeps the chocolate notes consistent throughout.
• Salt (in frosting): Balances the sweetness and deepens every bite.

How to Make Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake

Step 1: Prep and Mix Dry Ingredients

First things first, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease plus line two 8-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients ensures your cake will have an even texture and that rise we’re aiming for.

Step 2: Beat Wet Ingredients

In a separate larger bowl, beat together sugar, eggs, and vegetable oil until the mixture looks light and fluffy—that’s where the magic begins for a moist cake. Then add buttermilk, cooled brewed coffee, Baileys Irish Cream, and vanilla extract. These liquids create the perfect harmony, delivering moisture and layering cocoa with that unmistakable Baileys charm.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently and mixing until smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix here; you want a batter that’s silky and thick, but not dense. This step guarantees that beautiful tender crumb that makes this Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake so unforgettable.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Pop them into your preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting—trust me, the wait is worth it!

Step 5: Make the Baileys Buttercream Frosting

While the cakes cool, whip up the starry Baileys buttercream. Beat unsalted butter for 2 to 3 minutes until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt while mixing on low. Next, pour in Baileys Irish Cream and vanilla, beating everything until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and irresistibly smooth. This frosting is what makes the Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake a true decadence masterpiece.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of that luscious Baileys buttercream on top. Add the second cake layer and cover it entirely with the remaining frosting. For an elegant finish, you can drizzle melted chocolate or dust a bit of cocoa powder on top. Refrigerate to let the flavors meld, and get ready to enjoy every rich, boozy bite!

How to Serve Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake

Garnishes

A garnish can elevate your Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake from delightful to dazzling. Consider a dusting of cocoa powder or a delicate drizzle of melted dark chocolate. A few chocolate shavings or espresso beans add a lovely finishing touch, providing texture and enhancing the coffee notes.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream to balance the intense chocolate and Baileys flavors. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries also offer a fresh, tangy contrast that keeps every bite interesting and bright.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the cake on a beautiful platter with a drizzle of caramel sauce holding some toasted nuts along the side. Individual mini versions in glass cups layered with ganache and frosting make a fun and elegant alternative for parties. And of course, a cup of freshly brewed coffee next to your slice perfectly echoes the coffee element in the cake itself.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake leftover (which might be tricky!), wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen beautifully overnight, so every slice tastes even better the next day. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this cake to enjoy later. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before bringing it to room temperature. The Baileys buttercream holds up wonderfully through freezing.

Reheating

Because this is a moist, rich cake with a delicate frosting, reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer a slightly warmed slice, pop it in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings out that creamy texture and accentuates the Baileys flavor without melting the frosting.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without Baileys Irish Cream?

Yes! If you prefer to skip the alcohol, you can substitute Baileys with extra brewed coffee or a coffee-flavored syrup for a similar depth of flavor. The cake will still be delicious, though it won’t carry that signature Baileys creaminess.

What type of coffee works best in this cake?

Use strong brewed coffee, like espresso or a dark roast drip coffee, cooled to room temperature. The bold flavor complements and intensifies the chocolate, making it an essential layer of taste in the Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake.

Is buttermilk necessary, or can I use regular milk?

Buttermilk adds a slight tang and helps tenderize the crumb for a moist cake. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar into one cup of milk and let it sit for a few minutes before using. This simple swap works beautifully.

How long does the Baileys buttercream keep?

You can store the finished frosting in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whip before frosting your cake to restore that fluffy texture.

Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes?

Absolutely! This batter translates perfectly to cupcakes. Fill lined cupcake tins about two-thirds full and bake at 175°C (350°F) for 18 to 22 minutes. Frost with the Baileys buttercream once cooled for a perfectly portioned treat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake—a combination of familiar comforts with a touch of indulgence that feels both luxurious and inviting. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience that perfect balance of rich chocolate, smooth Baileys, and cozy coffee notes. It’s a treat that will keep you coming back for just one more slice, guaranteed!