Air fryer Guinness chocolate brownies became my go-to when I wanted something rich with a little St. Patrick’s Day flair. The first time I added Guinness, the brownies turned cakey and slightly bitter. After testing this three ways, reducing the beer, lowering the temperature, and adjusting cocoa levels, I found the perfect balance. Reducing the Guinness first intensifies the flavor without thinning the batter, giving you dense, fudgy brownies with deep chocolate notes.
These are bold, slightly malty, and incredibly moist.
Why This Air Fryer Guinness Chocolate Brownies Recipe Works
Guinness enhances chocolate flavor thanks to its roasted malt profile. However, too much liquid can make brownies dry or crumbly in the air fryer.
Reducing the Guinness on the stovetop concentrates flavor while removing excess moisture. Baking at 320°F (160°C) prevents overcooked edges, a common issue with air fryer brownies. The result is set edges, a crackly top, and a rich, fudgy center.
Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or anytime you want a grown-up chocolate treat.
Timing for Air Fryer Guinness Chocolate Brownies
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 15–20 minutes
Ingredients for Air Fryer Guinness Chocolate Brownies
Makes one 6-inch pan.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup Guinness stout
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips
- ¼ teaspoon espresso powder (boosts chocolate flavor)
How to Make Guinness Chocolate Brownies in the Air Fryer
- In a small saucepan, simmer Guinness over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until reduced to about ¼ cup. Let cool slightly.
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla, whisking until glossy.
- Stir in the cooled reduced Guinness.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Stir in chocolate chips if using.
- Pour batter into a parchment-lined 6-inch air fryer-safe pan.
- Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 10–12 minutes. Edges should look set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. Internal temperature should reach about 180–190°F (82–88°C) for fudgy texture.
- Let cool at least 10 minutes before slicing. Brownies firm as they cool.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Guinness Chocolate Brownies
- Reduce the Guinness: Prevents watery batter.
- Don’t overbake: Slight jiggle ensures fudgy center.
- Use parchment: Makes removal easier.
- Lower temperature works best: Air fryers cook quickly.
- Cool before cutting: Improves texture.
- For extra richness: Add chopped dark chocolate chunks.
Storing and Reheating
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze slices up to 2 months.
Reheating: Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes for warm, gooey brownies.
Variations:
- Top with Irish cream glaze.
- Add crushed pretzels for texture.
- Swirl in cream cheese before cooking.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after baking.
Conclusion
Air fryer Guinness chocolate brownies are rich, bold, and perfectly fudgy. The stout deepens the chocolate flavor without overpowering it, and the air fryer keeps the edges crisp while the center stays gooey. Once you try them, they’ll become your go-to festive chocolate dessert.
