Are you longing for a dessert that’s both indulgent and unique? The rich, bold flavor of chocolate paired with the malty depth of Guinness might seem unconventional, but it creates a truly unforgettable treat. Imagine biting into a cupcake with a velvety chocolate base topped by a creamy frosting that mirrors a stout’s frothy head — irresistible, right? That’s exactly what Nigella Lawson’s Chocolate Guinness Cupcakes offer. In this article, we’ll uncover the secrets to crafting this delightful dessert, share tips to perfect the recipe, and explain why these cupcakes have become a standout favorite.

Nigella’s Chocolate Guinness Cupcakes Recipe

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

250 mL 1 cup Guinness
125 g 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into chunks
75 g 3/4 cup cocoa powder
400 g 2 cups granulated sugar
150 mL 3/4 cup sour cream
2 large eggs room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
275 g 2 cups all-purpose flour
2½ teaspoons baking soda

For the Frosting:

250 g 8 oz cream cheese
150 g 1 cup icing sugar
2 tablespoons whipping cream more if needed for consistency

Instructions

Preparing the Frosting:

Beat Cream Cheese: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat cream cheese until smooth.
Add Icing Sugar: Sift icing sugar into the cream cheese and mix until fully incorporated.
Adjust Consistency: Add whipping cream, one tablespoon at a time, and beat until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. For a thinner texture, add more cream as needed.

Assembling the Cupcakes:

Spread frosting generously over the cooled cupcakes, creating a frothy “head” to mimic a pint of Guinness.
Serve and enjoy!

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Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and sour cream are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Do Not Overmix: Mix the batter just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to avoid dense cupcakes.
Cool Completely: Let cupcakes cool entirely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Double the Frosting: If you love extra frosting, consider doubling the recipe to ensure every cupcake is generously topped.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Unfrosted Cupcakes: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Frosted Cupcakes: Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.

Why Try Nigella’s Recipe?

Nigella’s Chocolate Guinness Cupcakes balance the richness of chocolate with a subtle tang from the Guinness. While you may not distinctly taste the stout, its presence adds depth and a unique character to the cupcakes. Paired with the creamy, slightly tangy frosting, these cupcakes are an indulgent delight.

Whether you’re a fan of Guinness or simply love experimenting with bold flavor combinations, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, gifting, or just treating yourself, this recipe offers a taste of Nigella’s culinary brilliance.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy these decadent Chocolate Guinness Cupcakes — a dessert that’s as intriguing as it is delicious!