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
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¾ cup Guinness stout beerdark 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 flourgluten-free flour blend1:1gluten-freegluten-free
may need xanthan gum
- ⅝ cup dark cocoa powder
- 5 ounce semi-sweet chocolate chipsdark chocolate chips1:1flavor
more intense chocolate flavor
- 3 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoon Guinness stout beerdark porter or stout1:1alcohol
similar malty flavor profile
- ¼ cup powdered confectioners sugar
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven and grease a square baking pan, then line it with parchment paper
- 2
Add vegetable oil to a large bowl
- 3
Add granulated sugar, Guinness stout beer, and vanilla extract to the oil
- 4
Add salted butter and eggs, then mix until well combined
- 5
In another medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour and dark cocoa powder
- 6
Slowly add dry ingredients to the egg mixture until well combined
- 7
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly
- 8
Bake until a toothpick comes out with a few crumbs, then allow brownies to cool
- 9
To make ganache, combine chocolate chips, Guinness, and butter in a saucepan until the beer gets hot and butter starts to melt
- 10
Whisk the chocolate mixture until smooth
- 11
Add powdered sugar and whisk until smooth
- 12
Pour ganache over brownies and spread into an even layer
- 13
Refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes
- 14
Cut into squares or desired size
- 15
Serve with ice cream
Tips
Don't overbake the brownies - they should still have a few moist crumbs on the toothpick for the perfect fudgy texture.
Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring to prevent it from being too thin and running off the brownies.
Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter and a smoother final texture.
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week
Can be made 1 day ahead - ganache actually improves in flavor overnight
Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled, optionally with vanilla ice cream
Common Mistakes
Don't overmix the batter to avoid tough brownies
Don't let the ganache get too hot or it may seize and become grainy
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
may need xanthan gum
General Alternatives
similar malty flavor profile
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.