Irish Coffee Cake with Whiskey Glaze is a rich, comforting dessert that beautifully captures the spirit of a classic Irish coffee in cake form. This indulgent bake combines deep coffee flavor, warm notes of vanilla and brown sugar, and the unmistakable character of Irish whiskey, all wrapped up in a moist, tender crumb. Finished with a silky whiskey glaze that gently soaks into the cake, it delivers a perfect balance of sweetness, warmth, and depth.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple pantry ingredients into something truly special. The coffee enhances the chocolate-like richness of the cake, while the whiskey glaze adds a subtle warmth that feels luxurious without being overpowering. It’s moist, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, and it stays delicious for days, making it perfect for make-ahead baking.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Combines coffee and whiskey for deep, comforting flavor
• Moist, tender crumb with a rich glaze
• Perfect for brunch, dessert, or celebrations
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Stores and freezes beautifully

If you enjoy coffee-flavored desserts or want a cake that feels a little indulgent and grown-up, this is a must-try.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45–50 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 10–12 slices
• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 48 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Course: Dessert / Sweet Snack
• Cuisine: Irish-Inspired / European

Ingredients

For the Coffee Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

For the Whiskey Glaze

• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons Irish whiskey
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1–2 tablespoons brewed coffee or milk (as needed)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the cake batter and bake until golden and set.
2. Mix the whiskey glaze until smooth.
3. Drizzle glaze over warm cake and allow it to soak in.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan, or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps create a tender crumb.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavoring

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients in alternating additions with the coffee and sour cream, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

Step 6: Bake

Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare Whiskey Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, whiskey, melted butter, and coffee or milk until smooth and pourable.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

While the cake is still warm, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Allow it to soak in before slicing.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve slices slightly warm or at room temperature. This cake pairs beautifully with coffee, espresso, or even a small glass of Irish whiskey for a truly authentic experience. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it even more indulgent.

Recipe Tips

• Use strong brewed coffee for the best flavor
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake tender
• Adjust whiskey quantity to taste
• Let the cake cool slightly before glazing for best absorption

Variations (Detailed)

Chocolate Irish Coffee Cake

Add ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate to the batter for a mocha-style cake.

Nutty Coffee Cake

Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.

Alcohol-Free Version

Replace whiskey in the glaze with vanilla extract and extra coffee or milk.

Streusel-Topped Version

Add a cinnamon-brown sugar streusel topping before baking for extra crunch.

Bundt Cake Version

Bake in a greased Bundt pan for 50–55 minutes and drizzle glaze generously.

Freezing and Storage

Storage

Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Warm slices gently if desired.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cake pan or Bundt pan
• Cooling rack

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does the alcohol bake out?
Most of the alcohol in the cake bakes out, but the glaze retains a mild whiskey flavor.

Q: Can I use instant coffee?
Yes, dissolve instant coffee in hot water to make a strong brew.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavor improves after a day.

Q: Is this cake very sweet?
It’s balanced—rich but not overly sweet, thanks to the coffee and whiskey.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter and dairy-free yogurt alternatives.

Conclusion

Irish Coffee Cake with Whiskey Glaze is a comforting, flavorful dessert that celebrates the rich combination of coffee and Irish whiskey in the most delicious way. Moist, aromatic, and beautifully glazed, it’s a cake that feels both cozy and sophisticated. Whether served for brunch, dessert, or a special occasion, this recipe delivers warmth, depth, and irresistible charm in every slice. Once you bake it, it’s sure to become a favorite in your collection.