Irish Whiskey Cake

Name: Irish Whiskey Cake
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 2 ½ sticks (285g) unsalted butter, at room temperature: for rich flavor and soft crumb; 1 ¼ cups (250g) superfine sugar: for sweetness and light texture; 6 large eggs, beaten: for structure and moisture; 2 cups (240g) self-rising flour, sifted: for fluffiness and rise; 2 tablespoons Irish whiskey: adds deep flavor to the sponge; ⅛ teaspoon salt: enhances flavor; 1 ¼ sticks (140g) unsalted butter, softened (for buttercream): base of the filling; ⅛ teaspoon salt (for buttercream): balances sweetness; 4 ½ cups (540g) powdered sugar: for smooth, sweet buttercream; 1 tablespoon Irish whiskey (for buttercream): flavor enhancer; 1 tablespoon milk (for buttercream): adjusts consistency; ¼ stick (28g) unsalted butter (for glaze): for richness; ½ cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream: gives glaze its creamy texture; ¼ cup (50g) white sugar: sweetener for glaze; 2 tablespoons brown sugar: adds depth to glaze; 2 tablespoons Irish whiskey (for glaze): signature flavor

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This Irish Whiskey Cake is the perfect balance of elegance, indulgence, and warmth — a showstopping dessert that’s light in texture yet rich in flavor. Featuring layers of soft sponge, a whiskey-infused buttercream center, and a glossy whiskey glaze, this cake is ideal for St. Patrick’s Day, dinner parties, or any time you want to impress. Even if you don’t sip whiskey, the mellow, sweet notes of Irish whiskey baked into this cake may change your mind. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful Irish treat.

Why You’ll Love This Irish Whiskey Cake

This Irish Whiskey Cake recipe delivers a sophisticated yet approachable dessert. Here’s what makes it so special:

Light and Fluffy Texture: Built on a classic Victoria sponge, this cake has a tender, airy crumb.
Bold Whiskey Flavor: Irish whiskey is infused in both the buttercream and glaze, giving the cake depth and warmth.
Not Overly Sweet: Unlike typical frosted cakes, the filling and glaze are balanced, so the whiskey flavor shines without being cloying.
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day, a birthday, or a weekend dinner, this cake adds festive flair.

This recipe is easy to execute and even easier to enjoy — a true celebration of Irish baking.

What You Need to Make Irish Whiskey Cake

Key Ingredients and Their Role

Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich, creamy base for both the cake and frosting
Superfine Sugar: Helps achieve a light texture and delicate sweetness
Eggs: Add structure and moisture to the sponge
Self-Rising Flour: Ensures a fluffy rise and soft crumb
Irish Whiskey: The star flavor, adding warmth and aroma throughout
Salt: Enhances sweetness and balances flavor
Powdered Sugar: Used in the buttercream for smooth, sweet texture
Milk: Helps achieve the right buttercream consistency
Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds richness to the glaze
Brown Sugar: Gives the glaze a deeper caramel note

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

All-Purpose Flour + Baking Powder: Replace self-rising flour with 2 cups all-purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder
Non-Dairy Milk: Almond or oat milk can work in the buttercream
Salted Butter: If using salted butter, omit additional salt
Other Whiskeys: Bourbon or Scotch may be used in place of Irish whiskey
Vanilla Extract: Optional addition to enrich the flavor — use ½ tsp

Step-by-Step: How to Make Irish Whiskey Cake

Prepare Your Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch cake tins, line with parchment paper, and dust with flour.
Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat butter and sugar together with a mixer until light, fluffy, and pale in color.
Add Eggs and Flour
Alternate adding beaten eggs and sifted flour in thirds, mixing gently after each addition.
Incorporate the Whiskey
Mix in the Irish whiskey on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Divide and Bake
Evenly divide the batter between tins. Bake in the center of the oven for 30–35 minutes. Check doneness with a skewer.
Cool the Cakes
Cool in pans for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack and remove parchment. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Buttercream
Mix softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, and whiskey until smooth and spreadable. Adjust consistency as needed.
Assemble the Cake
Level each cake layer. Spread buttercream on the first layer (cut side up), then top with the second layer (cut side down).
Chill Before Glazing
Cover the cake and chill briefly so the buttercream sets before adding glaze.
Make the Whiskey Glaze
In a saucepan, combine cream, butter, white sugar, and brown sugar. Simmer 2–3 minutes. Let cool slightly, then stir in whiskey.
Glaze the Cake
Pour glaze over the top and let it drip naturally down the sides. Let set before serving.

Tips for a Showstopping Irish Whiskey Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure even mixing and consistent texture.
Don’t Overmix: Overworking the batter leads to dense cake.
Use a Scale: For precise layer sizes and even baking.
Cool Before Filling: Prevents melting the buttercream.
Test the Glaze Temperature: Should flow smoothly but not runny.

These tips help ensure your Irish Whiskey Cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

Best Served With: Irish coffee, strong black tea, or after dinner drinks
Decorate With: Clover sprigs for St. Patrick’s Day, or dust with powdered sugar
Make It Gluten-Free: Use 1:1 gluten-free baking flour plus baking powder
Add Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can deepen the flavor
Skip the Glaze: Use extra buttercream to frost the top instead
Cupcake Version: Bake in muffin tins and glaze each for personal servings

Storage Tips:

Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months

A Celebration of Irish Flavors and Traditions

More than just a dessert, Irish Whiskey Cake is a symbol of Irish warmth and hospitality. Its tender sponge and boozy undertones capture the spirit of celebration — whether shared over laughs on St. Patrick’s Day or offered as a sophisticated end to a dinner party. With its balance of flavor and simplicity, this cake is one you’ll want to make again and again.

Raise a slice to tradition — and enjoy every bite of this rich, unforgettable Irish Whiskey Cake.

Conclusion

Whether you’re celebrating a traditional Irish holiday or just in the mood for something rich, warm, and deeply flavorful, this Irish Whiskey Cake is the answer. Its combination of buttery sponge, silky whiskey buttercream, and glossy glaze makes it an irresistible centerpiece for any dessert table. Easy enough for home bakers and impressive enough for guests, this cake highlights the best of Irish baking with a modern twist. Make it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your celebration recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Irish Whiskey Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake 1–2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator to keep the buttercream and glaze firm. For best texture, allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

What is the best whiskey to use in Irish Whiskey Cake?

Jameson is a popular choice thanks to its smooth, slightly sweet flavor, but any high-quality Irish whiskey will work well. Avoid heavily peated or smoky varieties, as they can overpower the cake’s balance.

Can I make Irish Whiskey Cake alcohol-free?

While the whiskey is a key flavor component, you can substitute it with apple juice or strong brewed tea for a non-alcoholic version. The result will be milder, but still delicious.

How should I store leftovers of Irish Whiskey Cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

More Relevant Recipes

Chocolate Rum Balls: These rich, no-bake treats are packed with chocolate and a bold hit of rum, making them a perfect boozy dessert companion to the Irish Whiskey Cake. They’re easy to prepare and full of holiday spirit.
Red Velvet Cream Cheese Bundt Cake: This decadent Bundt cake is swirled with a creamy filling and makes an elegant, indulgent dessert much like the Irish Whiskey Cake — perfect for festive gatherings.
Vanilla Bread Pudding: A warm, comforting dessert that pairs beautifully with a drizzle of Irish whiskey sauce. The texture and flavor profile closely align with the homestyle feel of the Irish Whiskey Cake.

Irish Whiskey Cake – Best Boozy Cake Recipe

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