If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly blends rich chocolate with the smooth warmth of Irish cream, look no further. This Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe is an absolute showstopper, marrying classic comfort cake with a boozy twist that’s just right for celebrations or cozy nights in. With moist layers soaked in Baileys and a luscious frosting that will have you licking your fingers, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to devour.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the key here, as each one shines through to create the cake’s tender crumb and decadent flavor. From the smoothness of unsalted butter to the rich depth of cocoa powder, every element plays a crucial role.
- 2 cups flour: Provides the perfect structure for a moist and tender cake base.
- 2 cups sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the richness of the cocoa and Baileys.
- â…› teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the other flavors and cuts through the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Gives the cake its beautiful rise and fluffy texture.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and keeps the cake delectably moist.
- ½ cup cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor and a gorgeous color.
- 1 cup water: Keeps the batter smooth and moist.
- ½ cup Baileys Irish Cream: The star ingredient that infuses the cake with creamy, boozy warmth.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (for frosting): Creates a creamy, luscious base for the frosting.
- ½ cup cocoa powder (for frosting): Intensifies the chocolate flavor in the icing.
- ¾ cup Baileys Irish Cream (for frosting): Makes the frosting irresistibly smooth and flavorful.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
How to Make Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, kosher salt, and baking soda in a large bowl. Combining these dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of leavening and sweetness throughout the cake, laying the foundation for a perfectly balanced crumb.
Step 2: Prepare the Cocoa Mixture
In a saucepan, melt the softened butter and stir in cocoa powder, then add water and simmer briefly. This hot cocoa mixture intensifies the chocolate flavor and helps dissolve the sugar smoothly, creating a luscious base for the batter.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the warm cocoa mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring continuously. Then add the Baileys Irish Cream and eggs, beating until smooth and glossy. This step is where the magic happens, as the batter becomes beautifully rich and silky, infused with that signature Baileys charm.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased sheet pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should spring back gently when touched, signaling that it is perfectly baked and ready to cool.
Step 5: Make the Baileys Frosting
Beat softened butter until fluffy, then gradually add cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and Baileys Irish Cream. Mix until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency. This frosting is decadently creamy with just the right balance of sweetness and Irish cream flavor, bringing the whole cake together.
Step 6: Frost and Enjoy
Once the cake has fully cooled, spread the Baileys frosting evenly over the top. This finishing touch turns the cake into an irresistible treat that invites everyone to take a slice and savor the delicious melding of chocolate and Baileys.
How to Serve Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your presentation by sprinkling a few chocolate shavings, crushed toasted pecans, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder over the frosted cake. These simple garnishes add texture and an extra dose of decadence that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. If you’re serving at a party, consider offering fresh berries or a warm cup of coffee or Irish whiskey to round out the experience, enhancing the boozy, comforting vibe of the dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, cut the cake into small squares and serve on decorative plates with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. You can also add a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of edible gold flakes for a glamorous celebration centerpiece that highlights the indulgence of the Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. This keeps the cake moist and preserves the rich Baileys flavor for up to 4 days. Bringing it to room temperature before serving helps revive its tender texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. If freezing frosted cake, wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then allow it to come to room temperature before serving. The Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe freezes beautifully and makes a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warm, gently microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or warm in a low oven for a few minutes. Avoid overheating to maintain the frosting’s creamy consistency and the tender crumb of the cake.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of Irish cream liqueur?
Absolutely! While Baileys Irish Cream is classic, other Irish cream liqueurs will also work well, each bringing their own subtle variations in flavor. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain balance.
Is this cake very boozy?
This Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe has a gentle, mellow boozy touch that enhances the flavor without overpowering it. It’s perfect for both adults and occasions where a hint of Irish cream is just the right amount of indulgence.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with texture. The flavor will remain rich and delicious.
What type of pan should I use?
A standard 9×13-inch sheet pan works best for this recipe, giving you that classic sheet cake shape. Make sure to grease it well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Can I make this cake ahead for a party?
Definitely! The Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe actually tastes even better when flavors have had time to meld overnight. Prepare it the day before and store tightly covered in the fridge for stress-free entertaining.
Final Thoughts
There is something so comforting and celebratory about the Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe, and I’m confident once you try it, this divine dessert will become a permanent favorite in your baking repertoire. The tender chocolate cake paired with the smooth Baileys-infused frosting is pure magic in every bite, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own. Trust me, this cake is absolutely worth every minute spent making it.
Print
Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish-American
Description
This Baileys Irish Cream Sheet Cake is a rich and moist dessert that combines the luscious flavor of Baileys Irish Cream with chocolatey goodness. Perfect for celebrations or an indulgent treat, this cake features a tender chocolate crumb with a creamy Baileys-infused frosting that makes every bite decadent and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- â…› teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup Baileys Irish Cream
- 2 large eggs
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- ¾ cup Baileys Irish Cream
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, kosher salt, and baking soda until well combined. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the cocoa powder and water, stirring constantly until smooth and just starting to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the Baileys Irish Cream. Allow to cool slightly.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the cocoa mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing continuously to create a smooth batter. Then beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated and batter is smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch sheet pan. Pour the batter evenly into the pan and bake for approximately 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually sift in the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with the Baileys Irish Cream, beating continuously until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the Baileys Irish Cream frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula for smooth coverage. Slice into 12 servings and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the cocoa mixture is slightly cooled before combining with eggs to avoid curdling.
- You can substitute Baileys for other Irish cream liqueurs if preferred.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
