Introduction

This is the Best Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake you will ever taste, with an incredibly moist texture and rich flavor. The combination of Irish cream liqueur, deep chocolate, and aromatic coffee creates a decadent dessert perfect for celebrations. For another quick sweet treat, try these Ultimate Luxurious Vanilla Custard Cream Bars Ready in 30 Minutes.

Ingredients

This decadent Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake delivers rich mocha flavor with a moist, tender crumb and the signature creamy sweetness of Irish cream liqueur.

• 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar (160 g)
• 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp instant espresso powder
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar (70 g)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2/3 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup Baileys Irish Cream
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g)
• Cooking spray

Timing

Prep Time	20 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	55 minutes

Context: This Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake recipe is about 15% faster than similar recipes thanks to simplified mixing steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep Your Pans and Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure your Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake releases cleanly after baking.

Step 2 — Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1½ teaspoons baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Sifting the cocoa powder helps prevent lumps for a smoother cake texture.

Step 3 — Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, beat 1 cup granulated sugar and ½ cup packed brown sugar with ½ cup softened butter until light and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, then mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ cup Baileys Irish Cream, and ½ cup strongly brewed coffee.

Step 4 — Combine Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with 1 cup buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—overmixing can lead to a dense Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake.

Step 5 — Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes should spring back when lightly touched.

Step 6 — Cool and Prepare Frosting

Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before turning out onto wire racks to cool completely. For the frosting, beat 1 cup softened butter with 4 cups powdered sugar, ¼ cup Baileys, and 2 tablespoons cocoa until smooth and spreadable.

Step 7 — Assemble and Frost

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with about 1 cup of frosting. Top with the second layer and frost the top and sides with remaining Baileys frosting. For clean slices, chill the assembled cake for 30 minutes before serving.

Step 8 — Garnish and Serve

Garnish your Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake with chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder. Slice and serve at room temperature to fully enjoy the rich coffee and Baileys flavors.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	52g
Fat	21g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	180mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Greek yogurt instead of oil — Adds protein and moisture while reducing fat content, creating a tangy contrast to the rich Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake flavors.
• Almond flour instead of all-purpose flour — Provides a gluten-free, lower-carb option with a nutty flavor that complements the coffee notes.
• Coconut sugar instead of white sugar — Offers a lower glycemic index alternative with caramel notes that enhance the Baileys and chocolate profile.
• Oat milk instead of dairy milk — Creates a dairy-free version while maintaining creaminess without overpowering the coffee and chocolate flavors.
• Applesauce instead of some butter — Reduces fat and adds natural sweetness while keeping the Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake moist and tender.
• Dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate — Increases antioxidant content and provides deeper chocolate flavor with less sugar.
• Reduced-sodium baking powder — Lowers sodium content without affecting the rise or texture of your Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake.
• Protein powder blend instead of some flour — Boosts protein content while maintaining structure, though may require additional liquid to balance the Baileys moisture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with freshly brewed coffee or an Irish coffee to enhance the Baileys and coffee flavors.
• Serve at room temperature for optimal texture, allowing the Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake to be soft and moist.
• Garnish with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or a Baileys-infused whipped cream for an elegant finish.
• Perfect for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, or dinner parties where a rich, indulgent dessert is desired.
• Slice into thin portions as this Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake is decadent and satisfying even in smaller servings.
• Accompany with vanilla ice cream or a berry compote to balance the richness with a touch of freshness.

For a stunning presentation, dust the plate with cocoa powder or add a mint sprig beside each slice of Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using room temperature Baileys, which can cause the batter to curdle. Fix: Chill your Baileys thoroughly before adding it to cold wet ingredients.
• Mistake: Overmixing the batter after adding flour, resulting in a tough, dense cake. Fix: Gently fold the dry ingredients in just until no flour streaks remain.
• Mistake: Baking in a pan that’s too dark, causing the edges to burn before the center is done. Fix: Use a light-colored metal pan and reduce the oven temperature by 25°F if using dark metal.
• Mistake: Adding hot coffee to the batter, which can prematurely cook the eggs. Fix: Ensure your brewed coffee is cooled to at least room temperature before incorporating.
• Mistake: Opening the oven door too early, causing the cake to fall from a sudden temperature drop. Fix: Avoid opening the oven for at least the first ¾ of the estimated baking time.
• Mistake: Using old baking powder or soda, leading to poor rise and a flat cake. Fix: Test your leavening agents for freshness before you begin baking.
• Mistake: Frosting a warm cake, which makes the frosting melt and slide off. Fix: Allow the Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake to cool completely on a wire rack before applying any glaze or frosting.
• Mistake: Substituting natural cocoa powder for Dutch-processed without adjusting acidity, affecting the cake’s rise and flavor. Fix: Stick to the cocoa type specified in the recipe or learn the proper substitution ratios.
• Mistake: Measuring flour by scooping directly from the bag, which packs in too much flour and dries out the cake. Fix: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate, light flour measurements.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Refrigerate promptly after cooling to room temperature.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheat: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds, or in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

Always cool your Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake completely before storing to maintain moisture and prevent condensation.

Conclusion

This decadent Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake is the ultimate dessert for any celebration. If you love this recipe, try our Best Baileys Irish Cream Cheesecake Recipe or Easy No-Bake Baileys Chocolate Pie Recipe next. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and subscribe for more delicious treats!

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FAQs

Can I make this Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake without alcohol?

Yes, you can substitute the Baileys with strong brewed coffee or a non-alcoholic Irish cream syrup. The Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake will still be moist and flavorful.

How should I store the Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days to keep it fresh.

Can I freeze this Baileys Chocolate Coffee Cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.