Indulge in Homemade Bliss: The Ultimate Scratch Irish Cream Cake Recipe

There’s an undeniable charm and superior taste that comes with baking a cake completely from scratch. While many recipes offer the convenience of starting with a cake mix, our Scratch Irish Cream Cake invites you to experience the true art of baking. This recipe is a labor of love, designed to deliver an extraordinarily moist chocolate cake, a luscious Irish Cream mock mousse filling, and a light, airy whipped cream frosting – all crafted with care from foundational ingredients. Prepare to elevate your dessert game and impress everyone with this decadent homemade masterpiece.

This particular cake holds a special place, affectionately named “Scratch Irish Cream Cake” to distinguish it from its cake-mix-based counterpart. The journey of perfecting this recipe has led to a delightful evolution, particularly in its structure. Originally, I would bake this as a single 8 or 9-inch layer and then split it. However, the current, preferred method utilizes two 6-inch cake pans. Each of these layers is then split horizontally, resulting in a magnificent, tall cake featuring three generous layers of the incredible mock mousse filling and a thick, dreamy coating of freshly whipped cream. This multi-layered approach ensures a perfect balance of cake, filling, and frosting in every single bite.

Why Choose a Scratch Irish Cream Cake? The Unmatched Taste of Homemade

In a world full of shortcuts, opting for a scratch-made cake might seem like an extra effort, but the payoff in flavor, texture, and overall experience is immense. Here’s why baking this Irish Cream Cake from scratch makes all the difference:

• Superior Flavor Profile: When you control each ingredient, you select quality. Fresh eggs, rich Dutch process cocoa, and genuine Irish Cream combine to create a depth of flavor that is simply unattainable with pre-packaged mixes.
• Exquisite Texture: From-scratch recipes allow for precise control over the cake’s crumb. This recipe yields an exceptionally moist, tender, and light chocolate cake that practically melts in your mouth.
• Purity of Ingredients: You know exactly what goes into your cake, avoiding artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives often found in mixes.
• A Fulfilling Experience: There’s immense satisfaction in crafting a beautiful dessert from basic ingredients. The aroma that fills your kitchen and the joy of presenting a homemade cake are rewards in themselves.

The Magic of Irish Cream: Elevating Your Baked Goods

Irish Cream is a beloved liqueur, known for its velvety texture and harmonious blend of cream, Irish whiskey, and subtle chocolate and vanilla notes. Beyond being a delightful beverage, it’s a secret weapon in baking, especially when you want to infuse a dessert with a sophisticated, warming, and subtly boozy flavor. In this cake, Irish Cream plays a dual role: it’s incorporated directly into the chocolate cake batter to give it a gentle, aromatic lift, and it is the star ingredient of our unique mock mousse filling, providing its signature creamy richness.

One of my fondest memories of this cake, as I look back at past bakes, is how exceptionally good the mock mousse filling turned out. It’s light, airy, and incredibly chocolaty, providing a wonderful contrast to the rich cake. The clever use of marshmallows in the filling is the key to its unique texture, adding just the right amount of stiffness without making it heavy or overly sweet. It truly sets this cake apart.

If you don’t possess 6-inch cake pans, fear not! This recipe is adaptable. You can absolutely achieve a fantastic result using an 8-inch or 9-inch pan, similar to the older version pictured above. We’ve made sure to include comprehensive instructions in the notes section to guide you through the process for larger pans, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful cake regardless of their specific bakeware.

The Recipe: Scratch Irish Cream Cake

For the Moist Chocolate Cake Layers:

• ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (4 oz / 114 grams) – Provides the structure for a tender crumb.
• ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened Dutch process cocoa powder (30 grams) – Contributes to a deep, dark chocolate color and a smoother, less bitter chocolate flavor.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (150 grams) – For essential sweetness and moisture retention.
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar (25 grams) – Adds a subtle caramel note and enhances the cake’s moisture.
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda – A leavening agent that reacts with acidic ingredients to create lift and tenderness.
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder – Provides an additional leavening boost, ensuring a light and airy cake.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Crucial for balancing and enhancing all the sweet and chocolatey flavors.
• ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons 2% milk – Adds liquid and fat, contributing to a moist texture.
• 2 tablespoons Irish Cream – Infuses the cake batter with its distinctive, creamy, and slightly warming flavor.
• ¼ cup vegetable oil – Ensures a very moist cake, as oil contributes more moisture than butter in some recipes.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binder, provides structure, and adds richness to the cake.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – A classic flavor enhancer that complements chocolate beautifully.
• 3 oz boiling water – This hot liquid “blooms” the cocoa, intensifying its flavor and creating a wonderfully tender, moist cake.

For the Irresistible Irish Cream Mock Mousse Filling:

• 3 scant tablespoons Irish Cream – The star ingredient, providing the signature flavor and a hint of boozy warmth.
• 5 large marshmallows (or 50 small marshmallows) – The secret to the filling’s unique, stable, yet airy texture, adding a subtle sweetness and body.
• 3 oz semi-sweet chocolate (no more than 60% cocoa) – For a rich, balanced chocolate flavor. I used Lindt mild dark 50% for its excellent melting properties and smooth taste.
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream – Whipped and folded in, it lightens the filling, creating a mousse-like consistency.

For the Light & Fluffy Whipped Cream Frosting:

• 1 cup heavy cream – Ensure it is very cold for optimal whipping volume and stability.
• 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar – Sweetens the cream and helps to stabilize the peaks.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a delicate fragrance and classic flavor to the frosting.

Step-by-Step Guide: Baking Your Scratch Irish Cream Cake Masterpiece

Part 1: Preparing the Moist Chocolate Cake Layers

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease and flour two 6-inch round cake pans. This meticulous preparation prevents sticking and ensures your cakes release perfectly.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Use a whisk to break up any stubborn lumps of sugar or cocoa, ensuring a smooth mixture.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the milk, Irish Cream, vegetable oil, large egg, and pure vanilla extract until they are well combined and emulsified.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet milk mixture into the dry flour mixture. Stir gently with a whisk or rubber spatula until just combined. It’s crucial not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough cake. A few small streaks of flour are acceptable at this stage.
5. Add Boiling Water: Carefully pour the 3 ounces of boiling water into the batter. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated. Don’t be alarmed; the batter will be quite thin, which is normal for this recipe and contributes significantly to the cake’s exceptional moistness.
6. Bake the Cakes: Divide the thin batter evenly between your two prepared 6-inch cake pans. Place the pans on the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean.
7. Cooling Process: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then, gently run a thin knife around the edges to loosen them and invert the cakes onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is vital; ensure the cakes are fully cool before proceeding to avoid crumbling or melting the filling.

Part 2: Crafting the Irresistible Irish Cream Mock Mousse Filling

This unique filling uses marshmallows to achieve its delightful, stable texture.

1. Melt Marshmallows & Irish Cream: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 5 large marshmallows (or 50 small ones) and the 3 scant tablespoons of Irish Cream. Heat on high power in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir vigorously until the marshmallows have completely melted and blended with the Irish Cream.
2. Melt Chocolate: Add the 3 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate to the marshmallow mixture. Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for another 30 seconds, or until the chocolate is mostly melted. Stir thoroughly until the chocolate and marshmallows are completely smooth and integrated, forming a glossy mixture.
3. Cool the Chocolate Mixture: Set this chocolate-marshmallow mixture aside to cool completely to room temperature. It’s important it’s cool before mixing with whipped cream. If it becomes too stiff upon cooling, you can gently re-warm it for a few seconds in the microwave to make it pliable again.
4. Whip Cream: In a separate, preferably chilled bowl, whip the ½ cup of heavy cream until soft peaks just begin to form. Be careful not to over-whip.
5. Fold Together: Once the chocolate mixture has cooled sufficiently, gently fold the whipped cream into it using a spatula until just combined. This creates a light, airy, and stable mock mousse. Avoid overmixing to maintain the volume of the whipped cream. Set aside in the refrigerator while you prepare your cake layers.

Part 3: Assembling Your Masterpiece: Layering and Initial Chill

1. Prepare Cake Layers: Once your cake layers are completely cool, carefully split each cake horizontally. A long serrated knife or a specialized cake leveler works best for this. You should now have four thin cake layers. Trim the tops as necessary to ensure each layer is flat and even, which will contribute to a stable and straight final cake.
2. Fill the Layers: Place one cake layer on your chosen serving plate or cake stand. Spread about one-third of the prepared Irish Cream filling evenly over the top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and repeat with another third of the filling. Add the third cake layer and spread the remaining filling. The fourth layer will serve as the top of your cake.
3. Chill for Stability: Gently stack the cake layers, adjusting them to ensure they are as even and straight as possible. Place the assembled cake (unfrosted) in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the filling to set slightly and the cake layers to become more stable, making the final frosting step much easier and cleaner.

Part 4: Preparing and Applying the Light & Fluffy Whipped Cream Frosting

A simple yet elegant frosting that complements the cake perfectly.

1. Whip Heavy Cream: In a large, chilled mixing bowl, beat the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream on medium-high speed until firm peaks form. For the best results, ensure your heavy cream, mixing bowl, and whisk attachment are all very cold.
2. Sweeten and Flavor: Add the 2 tablespoons of confectioners’ sugar and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract to the whipped cream. Continue beating for a short moment until everything is just combined and the frosting is smooth and holds its shape.
3. Frost the Cake: Remove your chilled, assembled cake from the refrigerator. Using an offset spatula or a standard knife, generously spread the prepared whipped cream frosting over the entire cake, covering both the top and the sides. You can create smooth, elegant swirls or a more rustic, textured finish.
4. Final Chill: For optimal setting and presentation, return the frosted cake to the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the cake chilled until just before you are ready to serve, as fresh whipped cream frosting is delicate and can soften at room temperature.

Pan Sizes and Baking Variations: Adapt the Recipe to Your Kitchen

While this recipe is ideally structured for creating a tall, four-layer cake using two 6-inch pans, its versatility means you can easily adapt it to an 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan if that’s what you have on hand. The result will be a slightly less tall, but equally delicious, two-layer cake.

Making it in an 8 or 9-inch Pan (Single Layer Cake):

If you opt for a single, larger cake instead of the stacked 6-inch version, follow these adjusted steps:

1. Pan Preparation: Grease and flour one 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly.
2. Baking Time Adjustment: Pour all the prepared batter into the single pan. Bake in the preheated oven. Start checking for doneness at around 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. An 8-inch cake may require slightly longer baking, potentially 35-40 minutes, while a 9-inch cake might finish closer to 30-35 minutes. Monitor closely.
3. Cooling and Splitting: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once fully cooled, carefully invert it and then use a long serrated knife or a cake leveler to split the cake horizontally into two even layers.
4. Filling and Frosting Application: Place the bottom cake layer on your serving plate. Spread all of the prepared Irish Cream filling generously over this layer. Then, place the second cake layer on top. For frosting, you can pipe the whipped cream decoratively around the sides and on top, or simply spread it all over the top and sides for a charming, rustic look. Another creative option is to pile all of the chocolate filling artfully in the center of the top layer and then cover the remaining cake surfaces with the whipped cream.

Expert Tips for Scratch Baking Success: Achieve Perfection Every Time

Baking from scratch is a rewarding endeavor, and a few expert tips can help ensure your Scratch Irish Cream Cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Accurate Ingredient Measurement: Baking is a science, and precision matters. Whenever possible, use a kitchen scale to weigh your dry ingredients (flour, sugar, cocoa powder) for the most accurate results. Volume measurements (cups) can be inconsistent.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your milk and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This allows them to emulsify better with other ingredients, creating a smoother, more uniform batter and contributing to a finer, more tender cake crumb.
• Do Not Overmix: Once you’ve combined the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until just incorporated. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dense cake. A few small lumps are better than an overmixed batter.
• High-Quality Chocolate: For the filling, invest in good quality semi-sweet chocolate. This will significantly impact the richness and smoothness of your mock mousse.
• Cool Cakes Completely: Patience is paramount! Attempting to split or frost warm cakes will inevitably lead to crumbling, tearing, or melting frosting. Allow your cake layers to cool completely on a wire rack for several hours or even overnight.
• Chilling is Key: The recommended chilling steps for both the filling and the assembled cake are essential. They allow the filling to set properly and the cake layers to stabilize, making the final frosting process much easier and preventing your cake from sliding.
• Very Cold Whipping Cream: When making the whipped cream frosting, always start with heavy cream that is as cold as possible. Chilling your mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before whipping can also drastically help achieve perfectly stiff peaks faster.

Serving and Storage Tips for Your Homemade Irish Cream Cake

Once your beautiful Scratch Irish Cream Cake is complete, a few final touches and proper storage will ensure it remains a delightful treat for everyone to enjoy.

• Elegant Garnish Ideas: Before serving, consider adding a finishing touch. A simple dusting of cocoa powder, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings, or a delicate drizzle of chocolate (and caramel, if you’re feeling extra indulgent!) syrup can elevate the presentation. A few fresh mint leaves can also add a pop of color and freshness.
• Refrigeration is Essential: Due to the fresh cream in both the filling and the frosting, this cake must be stored in the refrigerator. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a cake dome to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any ambient refrigerator odors.
• Optimal Shelf Life: When properly refrigerated, the Scratch Irish Cream Cake will remain fresh and delicious for 2-3 days. For the best texture and flavor experience, allow individual slices to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This slight warming will soften the cake and filling to their ideal consistency.
• Freezing Guidelines: While best enjoyed fresh, the unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and frozen for up to a month. Thaw them in the refrigerator before proceeding with the filling and frosting. However, the fully frosted cake with whipped cream is generally not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream can change upon thawing.

Concluding Thoughts: Your New Favorite Homemade Indulgence

This Scratch Irish Cream Cake is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create something truly special and memorable in your kitchen. From the incredibly moist chocolate cake layers subtly infused with Irish Cream, to the uniquely delightful mock mousse filling and the light, cloud-like whipped cream frosting, every element works in perfect harmony. While it asks for a little more dedication than a quick mix, the superior flavor, the exquisite texture, and the immense satisfaction of baking such a remarkable dessert from scratch are profoundly rewarding.

We heartily encourage you to try this recipe for your next celebration, a festive gathering, or simply as a well-deserved treat for yourself and your loved ones. It stands as a testament to the belief that homemade creations truly are the best. So, gather your ingredients, tie on your apron, and prepare to bake a cake that will undoubtedly be celebrated and cherished long after the last decadent slice has been savored. Enjoy every delightful, scratch-made bite!