Dark Chocolate Guinness Brownies with Stout Beer Ganache

Prep: 15 minCook: 38 min6 browniesmediumAmerican
Dark Chocolate Guinness Brownies with Stout Beer Ganache

These rich, fudgy brownies combine the deep maltiness of Guinness stout with dark chocolate for an intensely decadent dessert. The beer adds complexity and moisture to the brownie base, while a silky chocolate-Guinness ganache topping creates layers of flavor. Perfect for St. Patrick's Day celebrations or any time you want to impress chocolate lovers with something uniquely delicious.

Ingredients

Yield: 6 brownies
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
    melted coconut oil1:1plant-based

    neutral flavor alternative

    Full guide →
  • ¾ cup Guinness stout beer
    dark porter or stout1:1alcohol

    similar malty flavor profile

  • 2 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup salted butter
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    gluten-free flour blend1:1gluten-freegluten-free

    may need xanthan gum

  • cup dark cocoa powder
  • 5 ounce semi-sweet chocolate chips
    dark chocolate chips1:1flavor

    more intense chocolate flavor

  • 3 tablespoon butter
  • 2 tablespoon Guinness stout beer
    dark porter or stout1:1alcohol

    similar malty flavor profile

  • ¼ cup powdered confectioners sugar

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven and grease a square baking pan, then line it with parchment paper

  2. 2

    Add vegetable oil to a large bowl

  3. 3

    Add granulated sugar, Guinness stout beer, and vanilla extract to the oil

  4. 4

    Add salted butter and eggs, then mix until well combined

  5. 5

    In another medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour and dark cocoa powder

  6. 6

    Slowly add dry ingredients to the egg mixture until well combined

  7. 7

    Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly

  8. 8

    Bake until a toothpick comes out with a few crumbs, then allow brownies to cool

  9. 9

    To make ganache, combine chocolate chips, Guinness, and butter in a saucepan until the beer gets hot and butter starts to melt

  10. 10

    Whisk the chocolate mixture until smooth

  11. 11

    Add powdered sugar and whisk until smooth

  12. 12

    Pour ganache over brownies and spread into an even layer

  13. 13

    Refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes

  14. 14

    Cut into squares or desired size

  15. 15

    Serve with ice cream

Tips

Tip 1

Don't overbake the brownies - they should still have a few moist crumbs on the toothpick for the perfect fudgy texture.

Tip 2

Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring to prevent it from being too thin and running off the brownies.

Tip 3

Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter and a smoother final texture.

Good to Know

Storage

Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week

Make Ahead

Can be made 1 day ahead - ganache actually improves in flavor overnight

Serve With

Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled, optionally with vanilla ice cream

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overmix the batter to avoid tough brownies

Watch

Don't let the ganache get too hot or it may seize and become grainy

Substitutions

Gluten-Free Swaps

all-purpose flour
gluten-free flour blend1:1gluten-freegluten-free

may need xanthan gum

General Alternatives

vegetable oil
melted coconut oil1:1plant-based

neutral flavor alternative

Full guide →
Guinness stout
dark porter or stout1:1alcohol

similar malty flavor profile

semi-sweet chocolate chips
dark chocolate chips1:1flavor

more intense chocolate flavor

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make these without alcohol?

Yes, substitute the Guinness with strong coffee or additional melted butter mixed with a tablespoon of cocoa powder for depth.

How long do these brownies keep?

They stay fresh at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week when properly covered.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, wrap individual pieces tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.