If you’ve ever wanted to combine the rich, malty magic of Irish stout with the deep, comforting goodness of homemade brownies, these Guinness Brownies are about to become your new obsession. Imagine biting into a fudgy, ultra-chocolatey square with hints of caramel and coffee from Guinness, all wrapped up in an irresistibly moist package. Whether you’re a lifelong brownie fan or an adventurous baker, this is the boozy dessert that leaves everyone asking for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering up these simple ingredients is all it takes to create Guinness Brownies with unforgettable flavor and texture. Each item plays an absolutely essential role—there’s nothing fussy here, but every piece matters for a brownie that’s perfectly balanced, chewy, and full of personality.

Guinness stout: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and brings complex malt and coffee notes that set these brownies apart.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and ensures the brownies stay fudgy and moist.
Semi-sweet chocolate (chopped): Brings that bold, bittersweet layer and helps create the gooey texture we crave.
Granulated sugar: Gives sweetness and helps achieve those coveted crackly brownie tops.
Packed brown sugar: Deepens the flavor with a touch of molasses, making each bite extra decadent.
Large eggs: Add structure, binding everything together and keeping the brownies tender.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and enhances the chocolate and stout.
All-purpose flour: The base that gives brownies their signature chew and body.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate taste and deepens the color.
Salt: Just a little brings all the flavors together—don’t skip it!
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional): For melty chocolate pockets and extra decadence—definitely worth it if you’re a chocolate lover.

How to Make Guinness Brownies

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by setting yourself up for brownie success. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This simple prep work means you’ll get perfectly cut brownies—no sticky mess, just clean, pretty edges!

Step 2: Reduce the Guinness

Pour the Guinness into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook down until it’s reduced to about 1/2 cup. This concentrates the malty, slightly bitter flavor, giving your brownies a real “wow” factor. Set it aside so it can cool a bit before joining the party.

Step 3: Melt the Butter and Chocolate

In a large heatproof bowl, melt together the unsalted butter and chopped chocolate—either over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until it’s gorgeously smooth. Melting these together creates that glossy, fudgy brownie base we all love.

Step 4: Mix in Sugars and Eggs

Whisk both the granulated sugar and packed brown sugar into your melted chocolate mixture until everything is combined. Then, add in the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each to keep the texture silky. Your kitchen should already smell incredible right about now!

Step 5: Add Vanilla and Guinness

Stir in the vanilla extract and the reduced Guinness (cooled to room temp). This is the moment the brownies start getting their signature grown-up depth of flavor—rich, complex, and just a little bit mysterious.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This step ensures that everything is evenly distributed for brownies with the perfect crumb and balanced taste.

Step 7: Fold Wet and Dry Mixtures Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet chocolate mixture until just combined—don’t overmix! If you want even more chocolatey goodness, this is the perfect time to toss in those optional chocolate chips.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pour the finished batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Pop it in the oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick poked in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool completely in the pan for the best texture.

How to Serve Guinness Brownies

Garnishes

Bring your Guinness Brownies over the top with some simple but impressive finishing touches. A dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate glaze, or a few chocolate curls add that “bakery window” wow factor. If you’re feeling really adventurous, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt makes every bite sing.

Side Dishes

These brownies are fabulous on their own, but a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side takes them into pure dessert bliss. Or pair them with fresh raspberries or a dollop of whipped cream for a refreshing, creamy counterpoint to all that rich chocolate.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Guinness Brownies into a party centerpiece by cutting them into fun shapes with cookie cutters, layering squares in trifle jars, or stacking them on a platter with fresh berries and mint. For holidays, add themed sprinkles or serve with Irish coffee for an ultra-cozy experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay moist and delicious for up to five days—if they last that long!

Freezing

If you want to savor your Guinness Brownies over time, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature overnight for best results.

Reheating

Craving a warm, gooey brownie? Microwave a square for 10–15 seconds until just heated through. For multiple brownies, you can cover them loosely with foil and warm in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes. Don’t overheat to keep them moist!

FAQs

Can I use another brand of stout instead of Guinness?

Absolutely! While Guinness provides that signature malty bite, most stouts will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that different beers can vary in sweetness and strength, affecting the final flavor.

Are these brownies safe for kids?

Most of the alcohol in the Guinness brownies evaporates during baking, but if you prefer to avoid even trace amounts, save these brownies for the adults in the house or choose a kid-friendly recipe.

Can I double the recipe?

You sure can! Simply double the ingredient amounts and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye out for that perfect fudgy center.

What’s the best way to slice brownies cleanly?

Allow the brownies to cool completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This ensures neat edges, making your Guinness Brownies look as good as they taste!

Do I have to use the chocolate chips?

Nope, the chocolate chips are totally optional. If you prefer a classic, ultra-smooth brownie texture, feel free to leave them out—these brownies will still be ultra-rich and delicious.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a decadent, unexpected twist on a classic dessert, you absolutely have to try these Guinness Brownies. They’re a true crowd-pleaser, offering up layers of chocolate and a subtle whisper of stout in every bite. Don’t be surprised when everyone begs for seconds—enjoy every decadent square!

Guinness Brownies Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in these rich and fudgy Guinness brownies that are infused with the deep flavor of stout beer. Perfect for chocolate lovers and those who enjoy a hint of boozy goodness in their desserts.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter:

1 cup Guinness stout
1 cup unsalted butter
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Additions (Optional):

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Reduce Guinness: Simmer Guinness in a saucepan until reduced to about 1/2 cup; set aside to cool.
Prepare Batter: Melt butter and chocolate, whisk in sugars, add eggs one at a time, mix in vanilla and reduced Guinness.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, and salt; fold into wet mixture. Add chocolate chips if desired.
Bake: Pour batter into pan and bake for 28-32 minutes. Cool brownies completely before slicing.