Baileys Cake Recipe

The Dreamiest Baileys Cake Recipe for Sweet Indulgence

Sweet dreams come true with this decadent baileys cake that promises pure indulgence.

Creamy liqueur infuses every delightful crumb with rich, velvety magic.

Layers of moist chocolate sponge melt on your tongue, creating an unforgettable dessert experience.

Soft, luxurious frosting whispers hints of Irish cream throughout each delectable slice.

Passionate bakers adore how simple ingredients combine into something extraordinary.

Chocolate lovers will fall head over heels for this irresistible treat that feels like a warm hug.

Prepare to be seduced by the most tempting cake you’ve ever tasted.

What’s Great About Mary Berry Baileys Cake

What’s Great About Mary Berry Baileys Cake
  • Savor Boozy Dessert Delight: This Baileys cake brings a sophisticated twist to classic chocolate cake, infusing rich, creamy Irish cream liqueur into every delectable bite.
  • Craft Simple Showstopper: Bakers of all skill levels can create this impressive dessert with straightforward steps and basic ingredients, making it perfect for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing treat.
  • Celebrate Special Moments: Perfect for adult gatherings, birthdays, or dinner parties, this cake transforms an ordinary occasion into a memorable culinary experience with its indulgent flavor profile.
  • Customize with Creativity: Personalize the cake with optional toppings or garnishes, allowing bakers to add their unique touch and make the dessert truly their own special creation.

Ingredients in Mary Berry Baileys Cake

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and tender texture.
  • Chocolate: Adds deep chocolate taste and moisture.
  • Coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor profile.
Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour: Gives structure to the cake.
  • Sugar, Cocoa Powder: Contribute sweetness and intense chocolate notes.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Bind ingredients and create structure.
  • Baileys Irish Cream: Adds creamy liqueur flavor.
  • Lemon: Brings brightness and balances richness.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Butter, Powdered Sugar: Create smooth, creamy frosting base.
  • Cocoa Powder: Provides chocolate depth.
  • Baileys Irish Cream: Adds signature liqueur flavor to frosting.
Optional Toppings:
  • Chocolate Shavings, Cocoa Powder, Sprinkles: Decorative finishing touches for visual appeal.

How to Make Mary Berry Baileys Cake

How to Make Mary Berry Baileys Cake

Step 1: Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a medium saucepan, gently melt the chocolate and butter over low heat. Stir in the coffee mixture until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 2: Blend Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Whisk the dry ingredients to ensure they’re well combined and free of lumps.

Step 3: Whip Wet Components

In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk together:
  • Eggs
  • Baileys Irish Cream
  • Fresh lemon juice

Beat until the mixture becomes light and slightly frothy.

Step 4: Create Cake Batter

Slowly fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be smooth and free of streaks.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 50-55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Prepare Decadent Frosting

Using an electric mixer, cream the butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Cocoa powder
  • Baileys Irish Cream

Beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Step 7: Decorate and Serve

Generously spread or pipe the frosting over the cooled cake. Optional: Sprinkle with chocolate shavings, cocoa powder, or fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.

Tips for Success with Mary Berry Baileys Cake

  • Boost Coffee Flavor: Use freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee to enhance the chocolate's richness and deepen the cake's overall taste profile.
  • Prevent Dry Cake: Check doneness with a toothpick at 55 minutes to avoid overbaking, ensuring a moist and tender crumb every time.
  • Smooth Frosting Technique: Let butter reach room temperature before beating to create a silky, lump-free frosting that spreads effortlessly.
  • Elevate Texture: Sift dry ingredients to eliminate lumps and create a lighter, more delicate cake structure with better mixing.
  • Personalize Toppings: Sprinkle crushed chocolate-covered coffee beans or drizzle extra Baileys ganache for a stunning and delicious finishing touch.

New Takes on Mary Berry Baileys Cake

  • Gluten-Free Version: Swap regular flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace butter with coconut oil. Use dairy-free chocolate and substitute Baileys with non-dairy Irish cream liqueur.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Reduce overall sugar content in cake and frosting.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flax eggs. Use dark chocolate without milk solids. Swap Baileys with vegan Irish cream alternative made from plant-based ingredients.

Pairing Ideas for Mary Berry Baileys Cake

  • Pair with Irish Coffee: Complement the Baileys cake's rich chocolate and coffee notes with a warm Irish coffee, blending whiskey, coffee, and whipped cream for a harmonious taste experience.
  • Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Enhance the cake's decadent texture by adding a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream, creating a luxurious contrast of temperatures and flavors.
  • Match with Espresso Martini: Elevate the dessert with a sophisticated espresso martini, echoing the coffee undertones and providing a sophisticated, boozy companion to the cake.
  • Enjoy with Fresh Raspberries: Cut through the cake's richness with tart, bright raspberries, offering a fresh and light counterpoint to the dense chocolate and Baileys flavors.

How to Store Mary Berry Baileys Cake

  • Store cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
  • Securely wrap entire cake in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving.
  • Place individual cake slices in sealed containers or wrap separately. Keep refrigerated for easy grab-and-go treats within 3-4 days.
  • Warm room temperature slices for 10-15 seconds in microwave. For best texture, let cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying to restore moisture and softness.

FAQs for Mary Berry Baileys Cake

  • Is Baileys essential for this cake?

Yes, Baileys Irish Cream is key for the unique flavor and moisture in the cake, providing a rich, creamy taste throughout the dessert.

  • Can I substitute the Baileys with another liqueur?

You can try similar cream liqueurs like Kahlúa or Amaretto, but the distinct Baileys flavor will change the cake’s character.

  • How do I prevent the cake from being too dense?

Fold the wet and dry ingredients gently and avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

  • What's the best way to check if the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready to be removed from the oven.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Baileys Cake Recipe

Baileys Cake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 71 mins
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Indulgent Baileys cake brings Irish cream magic into a luscious dessert that whispers sweet sophistication. Chocolate layers soaked with rich liqueur promise an irresistible celebration of creamy decadence you’ll savor with pure delight.


Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients:

  • 175 grams (6.2 ounces) dark chocolate
  • 175 grams (6.2 ounces) unsalted butter
  • 300 grams (10.6 ounces) light brown sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 135 grams (4.8 ounces) plain flour
  • 25 grams (0.9 ounces) cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 100 milliliters (3.4 fluid ounces) boiling water
  • 2 teaspoons instant coffee
  • 75 milliliters (2.5 fluid ounces) Baileys
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Frosting Ingredients:

  • 125 grams (4.4 ounces) butter
  • 250 grams (8.8 ounces) icing sugar
  • 25 grams (0.9 ounces) cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 5075 milliliters (1.72.5 fluid ounces) Baileys

Instructions

  1. Melt chocolate and butter together in a double boiler, creating a smooth, glossy mixture. Incorporate coffee to enhance the rich, deep flavor profile.
  2. Sift together all dry ingredients in a separate mixing bowl, ensuring no lumps remain for a uniform cake texture.
  3. In another bowl, vigorously whisk eggs with Baileys and a hint of lemon zest, creating a creamy, aromatic liquid base.
  4. Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring carefully to maintain the delicate air bubbles and prevent overmixing.
  5. Pour batter into a prepared cake pan, spreading evenly. Bake at 180°C for approximately 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  6. Allow cake to cool completely on a wire rack, ensuring the structure sets and moisture distributes evenly.
  7. Prepare frosting by whipping butter until light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and Baileys, blending until smooth and creamy.
  8. Once cake is thoroughly cooled, generously frost the entire surface using a spatula or piping bag for a professional finish.
  9. Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings, cocoa dusting, or additional Baileys-infused decorations to elevate the presentation.

Notes

  • Choose high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor depth in the cake.
  • Ensure coffee mixture is at room temperature when adding to melted chocolate to prevent seizing.
  • Sift dry ingredients thoroughly to eliminate potential lumps and create a smoother cake texture.
  • Use room temperature eggs and Baileys for better incorporation and even mixing.
  • Fold wet and dry ingredients gently to maintain cake’s light and airy structure.
  • Test cake doneness with a toothpick – it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
  • Cool cake completely before frosting to prevent buttercream from melting.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend.
  • Add extra Baileys to frosting for more intense Irish cream flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 56 mins
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Irish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 574
  • Sugar: 48g
  • Sodium: 106mg
  • Fat: 33g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
Jackson Reid

Jackson Reid

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Single-serving recipe development
  • Global flavor fusion
  • Minimalist cooking techniques
  • Food photography and styling

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and hands-on kitchen training


Jackson’s love for cooking began one dish at a time. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Holyoke Community College’s HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he focused on what mattered most: creating recipes that are simple to follow and full of flavor.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Jackson brings together global influences and a less-is-more approach. His recipes reflect his belief that good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to make sense, taste great, and feel right.
When he’s not testing ingredients or adjusting seasonings, you’ll find him hiking near Asheville, exploring local markets, or chasing the best light for food photos.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star