Name: Baileys Irish Cream Hot Chocolate Bundt Cake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Irish-American
Ingredients: 1½ cups Water; 1 cup Unsalted Butter (2 sticks); ½ cup Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder; 2 tsp Instant Espresso Powder; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tsp Baking Powder; Pinch of Salt; 2 large Eggs; 1½ cups Sugar; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; ½ cup Baileys Irish Cream; ½ cup Heavy Whipping Cream; ½ cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 1 TBSP Baileys Irish Cream; Powdered Sugar; Sprinkles (Christmas themed or favorite)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 23 reviews

If you crave the perfect marriage of indulgence and comfort, the Baileys Irish Cream Hot Chocolate Bundt Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a rich, moist chocolate cake infused with a luscious hint of Baileys Irish Cream and espresso, then topped with a silky chocolate ganache that glistens as it cascades down every curve. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, effortlessly combining deep chocolate flavors with that iconic creamy Irish touch. This cake isn’t just a treat — it’s an experience you’ll want to share (or keep all to yourself!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board on a white marbled surface, holding bowls and ingredients arranged neatly. There is a large white bowl filled with white flour and a white bowl with light brown cocoa powder beside it. Two brown eggs sit in a white egg holder near two pale yellow butter sticks. A small white bowl contains dark brown coffee or espresso powder, and another small white plate holds white baking soda and powder mix. There is a glass bottle filled with a clear liquid and a small glass cup with a light brown liquid in front. Also included is a small dark bottle of Baileys on the side. Everything is arranged clearly for baking or dessert preparation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting ready to bake this stellar cake is delightfully simple. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s building the foundation of the batter, adding richness, or bringing out the vibrant chocolate flavor that makes this bundt cake unforgettable.

Powdered Sugar: Perfect for dusting on top to add a snowy, festive touch.
Sprinkles: Bring a little extra fun and color to the presentation.
½ cup Heavy Whipping Cream: Essential for creating the smooth, luscious ganache.
½ cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: The backbone of the ganache, providing rich melt-in-your-mouth chocolate flavor.
1 tsp Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma and depth to both cake and glaze.
1 TBSP Baileys Irish Cream: The star flavor, adding creaminess and a subtle boozy kick throughout.
1 cup Unsalted Butter: Gives the cake its tender crumb and richness without overpowering.
1½ cups Water: Helps blend the cocoa and butter for an intensely chocolatey base.
½ cup Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder: Provides that deep, dark chocolaty taste and vibrant color.
2 tsp Instant Espresso: Enhances the chocolate’s complexity and lifts the flavors beautifully.
2 cups All-Purpose Flour: Creates structure for a perfectly moist yet sturdy cake.
1 tsp Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise to light and fluffy perfection.
1 tsp Baking Powder: Works alongside baking soda to achieve the ideal texture.
Pinch of Salt: Balances sweetness and accentuates the chocolate notes.
2 Large Eggs: Adds richness and acts as a binder for moistness and structure.
1½ cups Sugar: Sweetens the cake just right, rounding out the flavors.

How to Make Baileys Irish Cream Hot Chocolate Bundt Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Generously grease a 10-cup bundt pan with butter or non-stick spray, then dust it with cocoa powder. This crucial step not only prevents sticking but also adds a subtle chocolate kiss to the cake’s edges. Your bundt pan is now ready to transform into a chocolate masterpiece!

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Base Mixture

In a small saucepan, combine 1½ cups of water and 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Gently melt the butter without bringing it to a boil. Once melted, stir in your Dutch-processed cocoa powder and instant espresso powder until completely dissolved and smooth. This warm, luxurious mixture forms the backbone of your cake’s deep chocolate richness. Set it aside to cool while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

While the chocolate mixture cools, sift together your all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This ensures even distribution and a tender crumb in the final cake. Keeping these dry ingredients ready to gently fold in later streamlines the process wonderfully.

Step 4: Whip the Eggs and Sugar

In a stand mixer bowl, beat two large eggs with 1½ cups of sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color — this helps add air to your cake for that soft, airy texture. This step is a game changer in creating a bundt cake that’s both rich and delightfully tender.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Pour the cooled cocoa-butter-water mix into your fluffy eggs and sugar. Beat for another minute to marry the flavors. Now add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ cup of Baileys Irish Cream, giving everything a few more whips. The Baileys adds that unmistakable creamy, warm note that elevates this cake from good to unforgettable.

Step 6: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Slowly fold the sifted flour mixture into the wet batter using a spatula. Folding gently preserves the air bubbles, maintaining that perfect pillowy texture. Once fully combined with no dry streaks left, your batter is ready.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter carefully into your prepared bundt pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release trapped air bubbles, ensuring no pesky holes in your cake. Bake at 325°F for 45 to 50 minutes or until a cake tester inserted near the center comes out clean. Patience is key here; let the magic happen and your kitchen will soon smell like pure comfort in a pan.

Step 8: Prepare the Ganache Glaze

While your cake cools completely on a rack, heat ½ cup of heavy whipping cream over medium heat until it just starts to steam. Remove from heat and add the semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon Baileys Irish Cream. Let it rest for 5 minutes so the chocolate melts into a silky, glossy ganache. Stir gently until smooth and glossy — this luscious glaze will give your cake that professional, mouthwatering finish.

Step 9: Glaze and Garnish

Drizzle the ganache slowly all over the cooled bundt cake, allowing it to trickle down the sides in beautiful ribbons. For the perfect festive flair, dust with powdered sugar and your favorite Christmas sprinkles. This final touch makes every slice as joyful to look at as it is to eat.

How to Serve Baileys Irish Cream Hot Chocolate Bundt Cake Recipe

A rich, dark chocolate bundt cake with a shiny chocolate glaze dripping down the rounded sides and pooling slightly on the metal rack below. The cake sits on a silver cooling rack over a light wooden surface with a shiny metal bowl filled with a smooth, dark chocolate sauce and silver spoons resting inside it in the background. The whole scene is set on a white marbled texture. The chocolate glaze looks thick and glossy with slight ripples on top and sides, showing a moist, dense texture beneath photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar brings a snowy elegance, but feel free to get creative with festive sprinkles or even edible gold flakes for a little sparkle. Fresh whipped cream or a dollop of mascarpone can add a cool creamy contrast that makes each bite sing.

Side Dishes

This bundt cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla, coffee, or Irish cream-flavored ice cream. For coffee lovers, serve alongside a robust espresso or coffee to echo those subtle espresso notes in the cake. A hot cuppa of Baileys-spiked coffee turns your dessert into an indulgent experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this cake on a beautiful cake stand to showcase its elegant shape and glossy ganache with a few sprigs of fresh mint or a scattering of chocolate shavings around the base. For gatherings, slice it into generous wedges and plate with a drizzle of caramel or raspberry sauce for a dazzling presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baileys Irish Cream Hot Chocolate Bundt Cake Recipe is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the cake moist and preserves the ganache’s rich, glossy finish. Bring slices to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this bundt cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before glazing or refresh the ganache to keep the cake tasting fresh and decadent.

Reheating

For a comforting warm bite, gently microwave a slice for 15-20 seconds or warm it in a low oven (about 300°F) covered loosely with foil to avoid drying out. This makes the ganache soft and the cake wonderfully tender, almost like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I substitute Baileys Irish Cream with another liqueur?

Absolutely! While Baileys adds that signature creamy Irish flavor, you can use other cream liqueurs or even coffee liqueurs depending on your preference. Keep in mind the unique taste of Baileys is what makes this cake stand out, but variations can be delicious too.

Is this cake very rich or overly boozy?

Not at all! The Baileys is balanced perfectly with other ingredients, lending a subtle warmth without dominating the cake. It’s rich and indulgent but still smooth and approachable for everyone.

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?

Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives this cake its deep color and smooth flavor, but regular cocoa can work in a pinch. Just note that the flavor might be a bit brighter and slightly less mellow.

Do I need a special bundt pan?

A 10-cup bundt pan is ideal for this recipe’s size and shape, giving the cake its classic dramatic ring. If you use a different pan, adjust baking times accordingly and watch closely for doneness.

Can I make this cake dairy-free or vegan?

This recipe relies on butter, eggs, and cream for its signature moist texture and taste. Substituting these will require recipe adjustments to maintain the same richness and crumb, so it’s best enjoyed as is, or look for dedicated vegan alternatives inspired by this recipe.

Final Thoughts

The Baileys Irish Cream Hot Chocolate Bundt Cake Recipe is one of those timeless treats that feels both comforting and elegant, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying during a cozy night in. It’s simple enough to whip up with pantry staples yet special enough to earn a permanent spot on your dessert rotation. Trust me, once you try this cake, you’ll soon understand why it’s a favorite celebration-worthy indulgence worth making again and again