Starry Kerry Stout Cake

Starry Kerry Stout Cake is a rich, moist cake infused with the robust flavors of dark stout. This cake is not only a treat for stout lovers but also a delightful offering for anyone who enjoys the essence of a decadent chocolate cake. The history of stout in cakes dates back to Europe, where the dark beer's intense flavor profile found its way into recipes designed to bring out depth and richness in baked goods. Particularly in Ireland, traditional recipes often incorporate local ingredients and beverages, with stout beer such as a Kerry Stout being an exceptional choice for cake baking. The carbonation in the stout gives a subtle rise to the batter while its flavor makes the chocolate notes more pronounced.

Ingredients

• Butter - 250g
• Dark Chocolate - 250g
• Stout - 250ml
• Caster Sugar - 300g
• Plain Flour - 150g
• Baking Powder - 1 tsp
• Eggs - 3 large
• Vanilla Extract - 1 tsp
• Sea Salt - a pinch

Preparation

Before beginning to prepare your cake, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing and a more consistent batter. Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lining a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper.

Melting the Chocolate Mixture

1. In a heatproof bowl, combine the butter and dark chocolate.
2. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Stir gently until fully melted and smooth.
3. Once melted, pour in the stout and mix well to incorporate. Set aside to cool slightly.

Making the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs along with the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt until the mixture is light and airy.
2. Gradually add the caster sugar, continuing to beat until fully incorporated and the texture is light.
3. Sift the plain flour and baking powder over the egg mixture, folding gently to prevent deflating the eggs.
4. Slowly fold in the chocolate-stout mixture, ensuring no streaks remain, and the batter is well combined.

Baking the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Place the pan in the preheated oven and set a cooking timer for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoying Your Starry Kerry Stout Cake

This cake is perfect as a standalone dessert or paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. For an added touch, consider a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the top. The complex flavors of the stout truly emerge when complemented by a creamy texture, helping to balance richness and acidity. Serve the cake at room temperature to enjoy the full depth of flavors.

Starry Kerry Stout Cake is a celebration of Irish culinary innovation, combining local heritage with the universal love for chocolate. Enjoy this cake on special occasions, or as an indulgent treat after a hearty meal. The unique use of stout not only imparts flavor but also moisture, ensuring each slice is soft and sumptuous.