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Irish Car Bomb Cupcakes
As I mentioned on Friday, I have been doing some experimentation with the beer and chocolate combination. The Guinness-chocolate ice cream that I made totally kicked butt, so I couldn't wait to see how I liked beer and chocolate in my cake. The answer? I like it, a whole heck of a lot. This was my first time doing Guinness-chocolate cakes, and I was totally optimistic that I would love it, and I was definitely right. These cupcakes are fashioned after the popular "Irish Car Bomb" cocktail that consists of a shot of Baileys Irish Cream and Irish whiskey dropped into a pint of Guinness. I have never had one myself, but I've heard that if you can get it down before it curdles, it's smooth, delicious and almost tastes like a milkshake. I'll believe it because these cupcakes are all sorts of delicious. They're also very boozy. Consider yourself warned
These cupcakes consist of a Guinness-chocolate cake base, which has a wonderful depth of flavor and is also supremely moist. The centers of the cupcakes are cut out and filled with a chocolate ganache that has been spiked with Irish whiskey. And to top it all off, the frosting is my favorite vanilla buttercream that has been doused with a serious amount of Baileys Irish Cream.
While you can't really taste the beer in the cupcakes (it serves as more of a flavor enhancer for the chocolate), you can definitely taste the alcohol in the filling and the frosting. Which I think means that the cupcakes are a success Plus, they got six big thumbs up!
I think I need to start converting more drinks into baked goods, this was too much fun (and way delicious!).
Two year ago: Sour Cream Coffee Cake
Three years ago: Pot Roast in the Crock Pot
Irish Car Bomb Cupcakes
Yield: 24 cupcakes
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 17 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
For the Cupcakes:
1 cup Guinness stout
1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
¾ cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1½ teaspoons baking soda
¾ teaspoons salt
2 eggs
2/3 cup sour creamFor the Whiskey Ganache Filling:
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate
2/3 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
2 teaspoons Irish whiskeyFor the Baileys Frosting:
2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
5 cups powdered sugar
6 tablespoons Bailey's Irish CreamDirections:
1. To Make the Cupcakes: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 24 cupcake cups with liners. Bring the Guinness and butter to a simmer in a heavy, medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the cocoa powder and whisk until the mixture is smooth. Cool slightly.
2. Whisk the flour, sugar, baking soda and salt in a large bowl to combine. Using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and sour cream on medium speed until combined. Add the Guinness-chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and beat just to combine. Reduce the speed to low, add the flour mixture and beat briefly. Using a rubber spatula, fold the batter until completely combined. Divide the batter among the cupcake liners. Bake until a thin knife inserted into the center comes out clean, about 17 minutes. Cool the cupcakes on a rack.
3. To Make the Whiskey Ganache Filling: Finely chop the chocolate and transfer it to a heatproof bowl. Heat the cream until simmering and pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for one minute and then, using a rubber spatula, stir it from the center outward until smooth. Add the butter and whiskey and stir until combined. Let the ganache cool until thick but still soft enough to be piped.
4. To Fill the Cupcakes: Using a 1-inch round cookie cutter (or the bottom of a large decorating tip), cut the centers out of the cooled cupcakes, going about two-thirds of the way down. Transfer the ganache to a piping back with a wide tip and fill the holes in each cupcake to the top.
5. To Make the Baileys Frosting: Using the whisk attachment of a stand mixer, whip the butter on medium-high speed for 5 minutes, scraping the sides of the bowl occasionally. Reduce the speed to medium-low and gradually add the powdered sugar until all of it is incorporated. Add the Baileys, increase the speed to medium-high and whip for another 2 to 3 minutes, until it is light and fluffy.
6. Using your favorite decorating tip, or an offset spatula, frost the cupcakes and decorate with sprinkles, if desired. Store the cupcakes in an airtight container.
(Recipe adapted from Smitten Kitchen)
627 Responses to "Irish Car Bomb Cupcakes"
I like your blog, however the name of this recipe is in extremely poor taste. If you lived in Belfast, for example, or London as I do, then car bombs are no joke. The IRA (Irish Republican Army) used to regularly put bombs under cars of people in order to call attention to themselves and their so-called cause. They thought nothing of depriving children of their fathers/wives of their husbands/parents of their children etc. One of my former neighbors was killed by one left underneath his car outside his house. A lot of Americans (and I am one) seem to consider the IRA to be some sort of glamorous rebel organization, but they really aren't. They are cold blooded killers, plain and simple. And for all you people out there who ever raised money for them, shame on you.
The name of this recipe may be in poor taste, but the recipe itself sounds great!
I am so glad somebody said something ! I was readind through the comments to see if anyone had tried these yet and to see what they "rated" it or thought about them and BLAM ! come across a negative comment.. IN A CUPCAKE RECIPE PAGE ! WOW ! AREN'T WE ORIGINAL !?? We all know what the literal "Irish Car Bomb" is and we all know what the shot is.. This is why I looked up an ICB CUPCAKE and not the recipe for a bomb… We didn't chose the name of this delicious alchol concoction… We just enjoy it lol.. And "Catherine" wants to complain about people supporting the IRA go post it on their facebook page or something, NOT ON A CUPCAKE RECIPE !
I think Shawna French is being much too confrontational. Cathrne did not say anything about the IRA, an did not deserve a dressing down. Just to let everyone know, though, I also think that pairing the name "car bomb" with St Pat's comes across as a bit tasteless and mocking. And no, i never thought about the IRA, just the imagery.
Heres what Catherine said : I like your blog, however the name of this recipe is in extremely poor taste. If you lived in Belfast, for example, or London as I do, then car bombs are no joke. The IRA (Irish Republican Army) used to regularly put bombs under cars of people in order to call attention to themselves and their so-called cause. They thought nothing of depriving children of their fathers/wives of their husbands/parents of their children etc. One of my former neighbors was killed by one left underneath his car outside his house. A lot of Americans (and I am one) seem to consider the IRA to be some sort of glamorous rebel organization, but they really aren't. They are cold blooded killers, plain and simple. And for all you people out there who ever raised money for them, shame on you.
Let me point out the part that came from Catherine that led me to believe she did say something about the IRA: "The IRA (Irish Republican Army) used to regularly put bombs under cars of people in order to call attention to themselves and their so-called cause." I mean, if that's not saying anything about the IRA, than quite frankly I don't know what is and I would appreciate it if you could tell me what WOULD be considered talking about them, word for word, THANKS SO MUCH rimafeatherstone !
Oh but yes she DID mention the IRA and called them cold blooded killers. She was being confrontational from the start. Mr Yeager isn't insulted Catherine that they named a drink after him..the Yeager Bomb…and with alcohol one wouldn't necessarily think of a blow up bomb….just getting "bombed". Maybe it's an American expression and you don't understand but not one person wants to start bad feelings over this. No one can be "politically correct" world wide. It's just a cupcake.
Sorry but regardless of which side you supported in the conflict naming a cup cake after something that brought pain, suffering and fear to many, Protestant and Catholic, in the North, the South and Britain is in bad taste. Would you publish recipes with names glorifying other tragedies? (I did make up a list of equally bad taste recipe names for other countries but decided not to post them out of respect)
Just because *you* think it's funny and a bit of a laugh about a distant country or because someone else, in equally bad taste, used the name first doesn't mean everyone else should just forget the recent past and laugh along with you.
Make your cupcakes if you want, but maybe when you do take a moment to give a thought to the thousands who died, or will that take the sweetness out of your frosting?
No one is being offensive. The "Irish Car Bomb" is a very popular drink that involves dropping a shot of Whiskey and Bailey's into a cup of Guinness. That is why a recipe like this calls for Whiskey, Bailey's and Guinness.
I don't find it funny or humorous… I mean, what would someone have to think to get a kick out of the name ? "Hahaha, I get it ! Like the bomb.. How genious !"? That was an odd statement lol. Here, I'll make you a promise, because frankly I don't want to think of death while making cupcakes or beverages and apparently you don't want people to forget the thousands of lives lost, I promise that I will think of the deceased when I get around to making an actual bomb.
Do you live in Ireland? In this context there is nothing offensive about the name.
Well said, Dec.
It's just a freakin' cupcake! GET OVER IT! They named the cupcake after a shot that uses those ingredients called *gasp* an Irish car bomb.
your welcome!! I AM MAKING THEM AS WE SPEAK MY DEAR XO!! 11 DOZEN ACTUALLY!!
I'm in the process of making these and while the cupcakes are cooling I read through the comments. I was simply hoping to see if anyone posted an approximate # of calories in each. I was shocked by the comments that were posted. This is simply a chocolate cupcake recipe with a twist named after a very popular shot. The above comments tell me that people take life too seriuosly. Would your life really be for the better had the recipe name be Guinness-Chocolate cupcakes with a twist of Jameson & Bailey's? Ridiculous! I can't wait to enjoy these Irish Car Bomb cupcakes once they are done!!
I was scrolling down to comment about that. I am not one for getting offended at things, but this is like a 9/11 cupcake recipe. It's too good a recipe to wreck with this name.
I don't want this to become some political rant fest but an edit to change the name would be much appreciated. It's too good a recipe not to.
Stephen Parker, 14 years old.
Jean McConville, 37 years old.
John McCormick, 34 years old.
Norman Hutchinson, 17 years old.
Ted McQuaid, 25 years old.
Robert Smith, 18 years old.
Billy Finlay, 55 years old.
James Ferguson, 53 years old.
Denis Taggart, 33 years old.
Robert Coggles, 31 years old.These people will never taste the cakes named after their deaths. I wonder if their children will come across them instead?
Well seeing as he was 14, I'm guessing they don't have kids. But seriously, get over yourself and get a life
SERIOUSLY? They were not named after the death of people, they were named after a drink! Take the stick out of your butt and get over it.
Get over yourself too – the drink was named after car bombs. Real things that killed people that didn't deserve to die. When this site has 9/11 cupcakes I think you'll understand. Wait?! They're not planning 9/11 cupcakes for the next anniversary? What a spoilsport! Humour fail! Perhaps High School Shooting cupcakes then?
You need to get over yourself.
CU.. you need to have some respect!
That is in no way aimed at BEB x
Actually it would be like naming a cupcake Boeing 767 cupcakes. Like car bombs were used to kill people in Ireland, planes were used to kill people on 9/11. Get real people! Everyone is offended by anything and everything. Dont like them? Dont make them!
My thoughts exactly!
I find this comment hysterical. Personally I find the screen moniker "Fairycakemother" offensive to same sex families and gay Americans.
And all I was trying to find out was what is the proper thickness of the ganache. Lighten up people, this is about cooking not politics.
I believe the recipe is named after the "Irish Car Bomb" cocktail. I do not believe it is meant as a political statement or anything of the like. If anything, the drink is poorly named.
And on a more positive note, these look delicious!
I realise there's no malice intended, and that it's named after an otherwise innocuous cocktail, but for me, it still reads as shockingly offensive. For context, I'm an American living in Dublin and married to an Irishman.
I'm sure the recipe is divine, but there has to be a better name out there.
Oh my, people need to get over it. It's a cupcake, not a political statement, people.
I appreciate it is a cupcake. It is a wonderful cupcake. I appreciate it is named after a cocktail. I also appreciate that it is not a political statement.
However, 'Deliberately Murdering Hundreds' Cupcake doesn't have the same ring to it. Just as 'Oklahoma Bombing tart' or '9/11 pudding' would also be wrong. Just because there is a cocktail of the same name, it's not a political statement, and Brown Eyed Baker is wonderful, doesn't mean it is right.
Clint Eastwood's film has been pulled from Japanese cinemas because of tsunami references, quite appropriately. This is the same thing.
Imagine if a UK blog made a '9-11 cake'. It would be disgraceful.
Ask for an Irish Car Bomb in a pub in Ireland and you'd get short shrift, only in the USA!
I can't actually believe your ignorance in telling people to "get over it"; if we Brits created a cocktail called "Talibani Plane-jacker" that would be fine because it's just a drink not a political statement? Terrorism is terrorism, the IRA were terrorists and it is really offensive first of all to imply that the Irish are all members of the IRA and second of all because thousands of people died during the troubles. I agree with the other British/Irish commentators here, it's in extremely bad taste and I gasped when I saw the name of the recipe. I can't actually believe there's a cocktail called that in the States, how insensitive.
wow really.its a drink.get off your high horse.for god sakes get over it
That is what the drink is known as in the US. There is no other name for it. I think the point is that if these cupcakes were called something else, people would not recognize that they are modeled after the drink. There is really nothing that this blog could do about that. I understand taking offense, but maybe it should be directed elsewhere.
You are full of it. Check the records of the Court of Human Rights, the Court in the Hague: The IRA is NOT a terrorist group; it is an internationally recognized nationalist guerrilla army, fighting to oust an occupying army and re-unite the 32 counties of Ireland. The Brits have done every sort of disgusting thing to take advantage of the media, such as the early detonation of IRA bombs, not caring about the loss of life if their papers can declare: IRA bomb kills…….! It was once said that if a country invades another country and assimilates the people, their culture & their language, only history can decide the rightness of the invasion; but, if a country invades another country and the people fight the invaders, as long as there is one person left to fight the invaders and the people are never assimilated and the language is kept, then the first country, no matter how long they occupy the country, remain nothing more than invaders.
@Fairycakemother: I would eat a 'Deliciously Murdering Hundreds Cupcake' in a second.
I wonder if Foo would eat Holocaust Delight?
Irish Car Bombs are a staple of St. Patricks Day traditions all over, not just in the USA. You can get them in Europe as well and I've had them in Canada. It's offensive, but mixology is based on trends. In the states, you can order an Osama Bin Laden, 2 shots and a splash of water, and drinks with 9/11 in the title usually come in patriotic colors. The Watergate has a shot of "im"peach schnapps. Drinks like the Bloody Mary, or Chartreuse are historical. Religion can be mocked just as easily as politics. Look at drinks like the Virgin Mary, the Sore Altar Boy, etc. There are too many ways to mix a drink, and too many creative mixologists. Same thing goes for cupcakes!
I would like to say I can see how both sides are so passionate bout this topic. But maybe the ones that are hurt and insulted are not looking at it in the right way. The names may be offensive but at the same time by the shocking names maybe you can look at it in a positive way . When people order or see it for the first time recognition is brought about some people may even say a silent prayer to remember, and we realize there is terrible things that happen every day and we have to acknowledge it ,bring it to the forground and have people aware of what is going on , in its own right these drinks and cupcakes do that, we need to look at it as a remembrance and celebrate life.
How would you feel about a cupcake called Dead Americans 9/11? I'm hoping it would offend you and you would request the blogger change the name of what is otherwise a great recipe, that is all we are doing. I live in the UK and remember the dreadful effects of car bombs and the threat of them
I'm an American, and it wouldn't bother me at all.
We have something called free speech in America which allows people to make/write/say what they want as long as it doesn't physically harm anyone. That is why Americans would not get offended by your suggestion.
I didnt know that either – they do indeed look de-lish
I am an American living in Germany and the Irish pubs here sell the Irish Car Bomb drink. It is a terrible thing that happened in Ireland but come on, these are just cupcakes named after a drink. If they were named something else, people who like the drink might not associate them with it and therefor never try what looks to be a deliciously sinful cupcake. This is a recipe blog, enough said.
Two observations:
1) The author based her/his recipe on a popular if poorly named drink. He/she therefore named it after the drink. This is only logical.
What is not logical is taking issue with the name here. This objection should have been leveled at the bartenders who invented and named the eponymous cocktail, and those who later popularized the name.
2) I am cautiously optimistic that no one commenting here has donated to the IRA; therefore this imputation also seems inappropriate. If you want to censure someone for that offense, a better choice would be Rep. Peter King (R-NY) , who recently conducted congressional hearings putatively on the subject of terrorism.
Because a bartender, in poor taste and little common sense, named such a drink, should be reason enough NOT to adopt such a poor choice of words. It's obvious that you lack any logic yourself as you do not understand how such an egregious name for a drink/cupcake can affect people who have witnessed car bombings and as a result lost a friend, neighbor, or family member. You seem to think 'anything goes' and that people ought not to be offended by a name that implies death. I would say you fit the textbook definition of a sociopath: one who knows the difference between right and wrong, but doesn't care. Your parents could have done better…
Two hours earlier you wrote:
Author: Clare (December 9, 2011 6:07 PM)
Just stumbled across your fantastic blog, cannot wait to peruse the rest of it (study
avoidance to the max…). Absolutely love EVERYTHING about these cupcakes; pure
genius, don't change a thing!Irish myself, but can't stand Guinness, so I'll hold back a bit in the recipe I think. For
those of you brave enough to try irish car bombs from a bar and not the baker; fair play,
I tried and failed, I'll just stick with a baby guinness I think.Tá mé ag tnúth go mór leis na cácaí beaga seo, go raibh míle maith agat agus ná bac le
na daoine cantalach thuas!Translation: I'm looking forward to these cupcakes, thank you and ignore the grouchy people above!
Why then come back and call Michelle, our Brown Eyed Baker, a socipath and delete your first post?
To the rest of you that continue to come back and state Michelle is evil,
Why do you people come on here at all if you are so offended by the name of the cupcakes\drink? They are not named for any actual car bombings done in Ireland. They are named for the Irish liquors used and the fact that a side to a shot is called a side car and when said shot is dropped into the "car" it is called a bomb. This has been explained already.
Personally, I can see how someone could be initially offended by the name. However, once you have been told how that name was created, you really ought to just walk away if you still find offence. You have no right to demand or call names. Even if you yourself have never seen this particular drink in a bar in Ireland, others have said they have. Are you calling them liars? If you must state your offence, state it once and then go away. Why do you keep coming back and spewing your hatred all over BEB's site? I have seen the same people posting over and over how upset seeing this name on a cupcake is making them. If it is so upsetting, why do you continue to bring yourself back to read it again?
I have read how rude it is of Americans to keep telling those offended to shrug it off, grow up, etc. However, do you not see how rude you are being to Michelle by coming back repeatedly with your venom? Use some common sense. This is a site about food and wonderful cooking. Please do not keep polluting it.
Thank you.
Not sure where you're going w/your rant, but my second comment was directed at Abdel Irada, not Michelle. The first comment, which was still there last time I checked, was to Michelle for her poor taste in naming this cupcake an Irish car bomb. Can you not see how one would be taken aback by such a name? And btw, the word 'offense' is NOT spelled 'offence'.
It appears that several people are offended by the name of this cupcake, and you just don't get the association between this name and actual experiences of those of us who have seen w/our own eyes the destruction that such car bombs can have. You need to develop some sensitivity and awareness of others and how they are affected by such memories. It would be akin to a cake named '9-11 massacre' or 'JFK assassination'…it just shows how far gone some people are w/their lack of creativity to come up w/a less egregious name.-
In your first reply, you stated "I would say you fit the textbook definition of a sociopath: one who knows the difference between right and wrong, but doesn't care. Your parents could have done better…" How is calling him/her a sociopath and his/her parent could have done better right? What exactly are you implying, it really doesn't seem "sensitive?"
Actually, I did mean "offence;" however, thank you for trying.
Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003
offence US, offense [əˈfɛns] n
3. annoyance, displeasure, or resentment; give offence (to) to cause annoyance or displeasure (to) take offence to feel injured, humiliated, or offended
4. a source of annoyance, displeasure, or angerCollins Thesaurus of the English Language – Complete and Unabridged 2nd Edition. 2002 © HarperCollins Publishers 1995, 2002
1. crime, wrong, sin, lapse, fault, violation, wrongdoing, trespass, felony, misdemeanour, delinquency, misdeed, transgression, peccadillo, unlawful act, breach of conduct It is a criminal offence to sell goods which are unsafe.
2. outrage, shock, anger, trouble, bother, grief (informal), resentment, irritation, hassle (informal), wrath, indignation, annoyance, ire (literary), displeasure, pique, aggravation, hard feelings, umbrage, vexation, wounded feelings The book might be published without creating offence.
3. insult, injury, slight, hurt, harm, outrage, put-down (slang), injustice, snub, affront, indignity, displeasure, rudeness, slap in the face (informal), insolence His behaviour was an offence to his hosts.
take offence be offended, resent, be upset, be outraged, be put out (informal), be miffed (informal), be displeased, take umbrage, be disgruntled, be affronted, be piqued, take the needle (informal), get riled, take the huff, go into a huff, be huffy You're very quick to take offence today.@ Clare Ní Chraidhin: Sorry I confused you with this other Clare. My apologies.
Clare: your arguments may carry some more weight if you (a) learned to spell (it's called English for a reason…) and (b) desisted with your lazy and ridiculous use of "w/" instead of "with".
"Personally, I can see how someone could be initially offended by the name. However, once you have been told how that name was created, you really ought to just walk away if you still find offence. You have no right to demand or call names."
Yes, quite right! This is why I still wear my swastika t-shirt with pride. After all, it was originally created as a sign of peace. I especially enjoy wearing it when I attend sporting engagements at the Nigger Brown stand in Toowoomba – named after a popular shoe polish of the day. How could anyone ever take offense to anything once they've been told how it originated? What is the matter with these people??
Frankly, the fact that your "Brown Eyed Baker" would knowingly post this, continue raking in the traffic from the controversy despite hearing from those who have genuinely been hurt an offended, and yet never take a moment to explain herself or her decision speaks volumes. As does the fact that this recipe is clearly stolen from another site.
And those of you making light of fellow human beings' suffering and telling those who have lost loved ones to get over it? You are reprehensible.
Eep sorry if I confused some issue, I posted the comment you copy and pasted there, different person to the Clare below (think my post is on the next page). Really do think the blog is great
On a side note, totally agree with you, people shouldn't really take it out on this wonderful chef.
well said!
I've often heard that name-calling is the tactic of those who are unable to formulate a legitimate, worthwhile argument. As such, your accusations of sociopathic behavior aimed at someone who was simply making a logical point are highly offensive and also seriously discredit your argument. In my personal opinion (take it for what it's worth), Abdel Irea was making a very good point. There wasn't anything in the comment to which you initially responded that specifically pointed to any insensitivity toward or lack of concern for victims of the IRA. I think we can all agree that the actual acts of terror committed are horrifying and tragic. Also, as an American, I can say that I would be offended if I encountered a 9-11 drink, so I can understand your point. It's certainly no excuse, but most people that I know are simply ignorant of the meaning and offensiveness of the name. However, Abdel Irea is correct in saying that this isn't the place to make such a fuss. Though it's only speculation since I'm not personally acquainted with the author, I'm fairly certain that no harm was meant in creating the blog title. It was simply a cupcake modeled and, therefore, named after a common drink. For people who are aware of the implication, it is rather insensitive to continue to use the name if in a situation where you can help it, but the fact remains that it's out there (as the result of the people who initially concocted it – not baking bloggers) and there isn't much any of us can do to make it disappear.
Just a tip, by the way, sociopaths do generally do the "wrong" thing when they are aware of "wrong" from "right", but the real generally accepted definition is that a sociopath is someone who lacks any form of empathy. Regular people know right from wrong and still make bad choices. It doesn't mean that they are sociopaths, just humans.
obviously you have never been to a bar. irish car bombs for life! woo!
these look slap your irish mother in the face delicious by the way.
but yeah please stop with the whole "poorly named" and go cry somewhere else
Everyone's entitled to their opinion, however, this is a popular shot in America, and if you're offended by the name, then you're clearly taking your alcoholic drinks too seriously. Never take life too seriously. You'll never make it out alive.
That being said, these look amazing. My girlfriend is going to make these very soon. Thanks for the awesome post. Found this on stumbleupon.com. I bet this tastes much better than the actual shot though. There's another shot that is similar to this one called a cement mixer.
I am a professional bartender, and all though I appreciate the care and concern, a little mixology knowledge is apparently needed in desperate measure for this poor lil cupcake..
"Irish Car Bomb"
1.The "Irish" referance is used to describe the contents of the cocktail(Jameson IRISH whiskey,Bailey's IRISH creme, Guiness IRISH stout) as well as differenciate between similar recipies ( California Car Bomb, Cherry Bomb, etc)2.A "side car", (also known as a "chaser") is the actual term referring to a beverage accompaning a shot of liquor, usually non alcoholic or beer, to make the liquor less offensive in the throat, and to reduce the strength of the tast in the mouth.
3.The "bomb" is a quite accurate description of the effect created by taking the shot glass of liquor and dropping it quickly into a pint glass full of the "car", thus creating a fizzing explosion type reaction..at which time you immediatly consume the cocktail as quickly as you can. The term also alerts the consummer that drinking the amount of alcohol in this cocktail so quickly gets you "bombed"..a very common slang term used to describe intoxication.
***It has absolutly nothing whatso ever to do with Ireland, War or actual bombings of any sort.*** It is a quick, quirky memorable name that accuratly describes the contents and effect of the cocktail combination.. a great marketing ploy.
THANK YOU for clearing this up. I was going to try, but was hoping someone would do it better than I could.
Very well Put.
Thank you for the information on just how these drinks get their names. My daughter is making these today for a Halloween party this evening,she and I discussed the name for the PC people out there, we came up with wickedly smashed.
Well, here's a good history lesson behind the DRINK, Thank you. YES! There will alway be something for people to be offended about. YES! People will always read into whatever they don't know about, in this case a DRINK. YES! They look AWESOME!! I'm Irish living in here in the US. People, you are wasting your breathe and time here. Make the cupckes call the something else. I'm sure that no one is really going to care. I'm not making light of any IRA bombing. NOT AT ALL. But I know that the Irish Car Bomb drink has been around way before these cupcakes! CUPCAKES PEOPLE! Which I'm going to make this weekend.
I agree. The troubles in Ireland are still continuing and naming cupcakes after something offensive isn't the best way to attract people to the recipe.
I live in the USA and have been drinking "Irish Car Bombs" for years. I never knew what the name was referring to. A "bomb" in terms of a shot, is when a shot is dropped in beer or another drink. I just assumed that's what the "bomb" was referring to. I don't think anyone was/is trying to be offensive in calling these cupcakes by that name.
Well guess what Einstein – I'm guessing she DOESN'T live in Ireland so it's really not relevant. So, drop a Midol and stop posting irrelevant nonsense on a blog that is referencing a popular drink common in American culture. It's supposed to be fun Debbie downer.
Americans are fat, stupid, and extremely self-centered. Why is anyone surprised that they see nothing wrong with having a little fun with overseas terrorism (but scream and cry and throw enormous tanties if anyone makes light of 9/11)?
did you not see the explaination from the bartender above? Has nothing to do with ira car bombings. fucking moron. go back to kindergarted and learn how to read. Love the cupcakes btw!
Actually, we have a drink called "Bin Laden," and even a drink called "Terrorism."
Catherine, I agree the name is offensive. But I am coming from the other end of the table. My ancestors fought for the freedom of British rule and I today also know people who still are in the IRA. The methods today's members use are idiotic and obscure. The innocent lives lost on both the British and Irish sides are wrong and unjust, they both lost innocent lives. Look at The Guildford Four, the Conlons were not part of the IRA and still served years in prison and Giuseppe Conlon died in prison due to the poor quality of the health standards in that prison. They were in fact 100% innocent from the crime. The British have also lost innocent dear lives that ruined and tore apart families has did the Irish. I am sorry for the loss of your friend due to the IRA car bombing. I have lost friends who were not involved in anything of the sort as well. I agree the name of this recipe should be changed.
Your offense would be far better placed if the author of this blog had coined the term car-bomb, but they didn't. It's the only name I've heard of for that particular drink, so if you really want to take issue with the name, hunt down the person who first dropped baileys into guiness and came up with the term.
For god sakes its a damn drink name get over it..theres a drink name called a dirty nexican theres a drink called a screaming nazi theres a drink called satans piss but that doesnt make me a satanist.. this lady didnt come up with the drink name so quit giving her crap over it she just turned the drink into a cupcake..if you dont like it dont make them..and dont worry miss cause I offened people on a daily basis and I actually try to lol
Honestly the drink Irish Car Bomb has been around for ages…this cupcake simply uses the same alcohol as the drink to recreate it's deliciousness in cupcake form. Everyone complaining about the name needs to really grow up and get over themselves.
This will be my second year making these for friends and family around St. Paddy's Day and they are always a big hit!
… It is the name of the drink the cupcake is imitating, not her own creation. Take your anger up with the original person who made the Irish Carbomb drink… whoever that was.
if you idiots read what the woman had to say when she posted the recipe, it is named for the irish car bomb cockatil, designed to make people so intoxicated that they will not be able to DRIVE a car! -sigh-
It's not like she named them herself. They are named after the drink that they are based on. I think they sound amazing. Name and all.
I HAVE FOUND THAT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING IN DISTASTE THEN LEAVE THE WEBSITE NO ONE S FORCING YOU TO BE ON THE PAGE OR MAKE THE CUPCAKES. SO INSTEAD OF GIVING US YOUR POINT OF VIEW KEEP IT TO YOURSELF AND DON'T COME BACK. i HAVE MADE THESE AND MANY OTHER RECIPES FROM THIS WEBSITE AND IN NO WAY DID IT OFFEND ANYONE OF MY GUEST. SO MAYBE JUST GROW THE HELL UP AND DON'T COME BACK
Maybe you need to have several of these and just breathe. Your post as well as the piggybacker rant posts was completely ludicrous. I don't suppose you guys toss a rant on people that post bloody mary recipes? I think you need to calm down and stop looking for reasons to be offended and look for reasons to be calm. You sound like complete idiots with that. Eat a cupcake, have a drink and if that fails you could just get out. Cupcake haters lolol wow that is so idiotic.
OMG! It's a freaking Saint Patrick's Day Cupcake named after the alcoholic drink! Did it occur to you to Google what an Irish Car Bomb is before you went on your little rant? No? Get over yourself.
I googled Irish Car Bomb, here are some of the results:
The third article includes the following:
But as you get prepared to enjoy many car bombs this Saint Patrick's Day, you may want to know a few things before you get too inebriated.First, the Irish Car Bomb is an American cocktail — it's only called Irish because of the use of Guinness, Baileys Irish Cream and Jameson Irish Whiskey.
Second, we call it a car bomb because when the shot of Baileys is dropped into the glass of Guinness, it bubbles up like an explosion. Because of the Irish ingredients, someone thought it was a good idea to name it an Irish Car Bomb. It was not. Car bombs are not taken lightly in Ireland and the name makes reference to a difficult time in Ireland — one where many people were hurt, and times were hard. It's offensive and naming a drink after this time in history doesn't really make a lot of sense — it's just insensitive.
Third, if you're going to make this drink, you need to know how to make it properly (and try to come up with a different name for it).
The "Irish" in the name refers to the drink's Irish ingredients; typically Guinness stout, Baileys Irish Cream, and Jameson Irish Whiskey. The "car bomb" refers to the fact that the drink is a "bomb shot" and also to the many car bombings that took place during the Troubles in Ireland. The drink is popular in the United States,[10] but virtually unknown in Ireland, and ordering it there is likely to cause confusion or offense.[8][9] This blog was not to cause offense to anyone. "Car Bomb" is a name of a shot/drink here in America and is a very popular one at that. I'm sure theres plenty of names of things in England that may offend some Americans, and for that you just have to take some things with a grain of salt. No one is trying to offend England it's simply the name of a drink period.
Ma'am I do not understand why you say just because someone enjoys an Irish car bomb that they support the IRA. That is like saying (excuse my language) someone drinks a liquor drink known as "Hard Dick" or "Sex on the beach" that they are all about sex. It makes no sense that you would relate a drink with something that Ireland is going threw. Its simply the name of the drink because of all the Irish liquors in it. In fact, with me being Irish myself, I take pride in the fact that a drink has been named after the Irish. I mean come on Miss, it's not like its something to be offended by. Yes, the IRA is not a joke but the name of the drink and this cupcake is to not be taken out of context and made into something bigger than what it is. Keep a level head dear its not as serious as your making it out to be.
To be honest, I didn't even give a thought to the IRA, etc. when I read the name of this until someone pointed it out. I IMMEDIATELY knew it was a very popular drink that is served in just about every bar in America…and I know it's served at the authentic Irish bar that we frequent. I also knew what BEB was referring to and while I don't know her, I'm 100% sure she wasn't intending to offend. I'm also well aware of what the IRA has done to Ireland and certainly don't condone it. I'm sure BEB will do the right thing and change it since it offended some, but in all reality, this is a fun site for bakers to enjoy. Thanks BEB for a great recipe! Can't wait to make it for my husband on his St. Pat's birthday!
Yes, don't let a little death and destruction get in the way of your fun baking.
Meagan, I fully appreciate that most Americans will have no idea about the name. I can't see a cocktail called irish Car Bomb being served in Northern Ireland though.
It is called a Car Bomb though. They tend to kill people. Kinda the point of them.
It is not a gripe at Brown Eyed Baker. It is a shame that the post didn't start with, 'this is the name of a well known cocktail served all over America. While the name comes from an unpleasant part of Ireland's past, the ingredients are so good I just had to make a cupcake from them.'
Thank you, this is the point I was trying to make. I am not offended by the name, I am offended by the fact that I am apparently making a fuss over nothing. The fact is that this is a popular cocktail in the USA, not in Ireland, not in the UK. I'm 21, I live in the UK, I drink cocktails but I have never heard of an "Irish car bomb" and I don't think I am the only one. Just because something is not offensive in one culture doesn't mean it is inoffensive in all cultures. Quite honestly if I saw this advertised in a bakery in the UK I would ask to speak to the manager/owner and would explain about the fact that some people may be upset/offended by this. In the context of being from the USA this name is inoffensive. However in the context of being from the UK it may well be seen as offensive. Just because people have differing opinions from one another doesn't make the opinions invalid. We are all entitled to opinions and in my opinion the cocktail is offensive and I am more offended by being told to "get over myself, it's only a name". I thought Americans valued free speech, so I am using my right to free speech so that I may give my opinion.
Actually, this is a cocktail served in Ireland, the south at least. I recently went on holiday there, and our Irish guide recommended the members of the group to get one from the bar. He didn't seem to take a hint of offence at the name, nor did any of the coach party members or people at the bar.
I ordered one in a pub in Killarney two years ago. Bartender didn't bat an eye and just made it for us. We actually got got a few Irishmen in on it too and lined the bar and everyone dropped the shot at the same time and drank.
that's because you were a tourist and he wanted your money
there are car bomb variations. You can get a NY Car Bomb, a Miami Car Bomb, a California Car Bomb, a Colorado Car Bomb and Tijuana Car Bomb. "Car Bomb" is the method of drink. Dropping a "bomb" into a weaker concoction. We don't have car bombers in the US, but it sounds like we do if you were a foreigner reading our drink menu. So making a car bomb drink with irish, and proud to be irish, products, will result in the name "Irish Car Bomb". I doubt the mixologists thought, 'hey, lets be giant dicks and offend an entire nation.' besides, if i had to guess, 99% of the drinks containing irish drink were developed and named by irish-americans in new england, or somewhere else considering we don't know if the origin of the drink is USA. not telling you to chill out, but it's kind of annoying to hear anti-american rants coming from people who think we developed an anti-irish drink. Hypocritical, really.
Yes. Well put!
The name did not come from Ireland's past. The Bartender above told you where the name came from. It has nothing to do with Ireland at all except for the use of Irish beer and liquor to make the original mixed drink. I am Irish, myself, and I hope that BEB does not change the name of her cupcake. These look delicious and I am mature enough and intelligent enough to know that she was not trying to be offensive nor was the original creator of the mixed drink it was named after.
This site is for bakers, not for making a political statement. If you are that offended, then stop coming back.
By the way, I plan to make these as soon as I can!
I refer you to the fact that there is a sports stand called 'n****r brown' after a shoe polish brand. It isn't named after racism… but is it OK? No. This cocktail isn't named after (so say the bartenders, who would) the idea of carbombs in real life. But the connotation is there and only a fool wouldn't see it.
The same style of drink is called a 'depth charge' in UK & Eire. Should we make a tropical one, call it a 'Pearl Harbour Depth Charge' then say… but it's just the name of a cocktail + the name of a place… honest guv, we're so innocent we didn't realise it was offensive.
If you are getting all jammed up about the name of a shot or a cupcake, then maybe you should check yourself. Maybe it's because you didn't get enough hugs from mommy and daddy when you were little? If you don't like Irish Car Bombs, don't drink them. If you don't like Irish Car Bomb cupcakes, don't eat them. If you don't like BEB, troll somewhere else.
We have a drink called the Kamikaze, that i exceedingly popular in the states.
Now do we get offended by a drink named after the very method the Japanese used to attack Americans? No, we appreciate it for its flavor and alcohol content.
"Authentic Irish Bar"- well it can't be that authentic. As a Scottish girl (with an Irish boyfriend) I visit Ireland frequently (that's right, the real authentic Ireland- just to the left hand side of Great Britain) and I have never heard of this cocktail in my life. There is absolutely no way you would see this on a menu in Dublin, Belfast, or any other Irish city. I don't think the Americans get how offensive this is? It takes a LOT to offend me but seeing terrorist acts against my country trivialised as fun snacks to eat for St Paddy's day really is grinding my gears.
**right hand side, even! Whups!
Of course they don't get how offensive it is. Like Katherine said, they don't really get taught current events or history. They only learn about their own country.
Do you realize how hypocritical you sound? You keep using the word "they," which in turn means you are stereotyping/prejudiced. So, before you go calling over 315 million people insensitive and ignorant you should take a good look at yourself and see how utterly ironic that is.
As explained, the name refers to the style of the drink:
Irish – Referring to the alcohol in the drink (Jameson Irish Whiskey, Bailey's Irish Creme and Guinness Irish Stout)
Car – Referring to Sidecar, which is another name for a chaser (a drink that accompanies a stronger liquor)
Bomb – Description of the shot glass dropping into the liquor glassIreland is not the only place in the world that has had tragedies involving car bombs, for your reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_mass_car_bombings
So, I suppose everyone should be upset about similarly named drinks, such as the "Canadian Car Bomb," "New York City Car Bomb," "California Car Bomb." You can't create your own meaning for a phrase that is inherently innocent and make it about politics, the IRA, and car bombs when the phrase has nothing to do with any of that. I suppose you should take your grievances to the mixologist who invented "car bomb" as it refers to drinks, instead of insulting an entire group of people in the same manner you were offended by.
BS…the cupcake is named after the drink where the inspiration for the cupcake came from you have a problem with the drink name then I recommend you hunt down whoever invented the drink, which is incidentally just a derivation of another drink called a Boilermaker. She absolutely should NOT change the name of the cupcake. People really need to grow up and get some perspective instead of just looking for ways to be offended.
I just used these same cupcake liners on the batch I made yesterday! Love your blog and can't wait to try out some of the recipes you've been posting lately – the frosting on these cupcakes looks so moist and tasty!
yum! Love all the St. Patty's recipes
The nickname for Patrick in Ireland is Paddy, not Patty.
jesus lady…
Both "Patty" and "Paddy" are used in North America. Jen is from Vancouver, B.C. Canada. Further, "Paddy" here is usually A) a rice paddy, or B) a DEROGATORY term for an Irishman. Enough said.
Why do you think it's a derogatory name for an Irishman, though? Like where do you think 'Paddy' comes from? (clue… short for St Patrick, perhaps? Or are the 40 shades of green due to all the rice they grow?)
My GOD!!! This is insane…Can we get back to the cupcakes and forget about the political crap!!!! Im just trying to read reviews of how these cupcakes taste and tips on how to make them properly. If you want to talk politics and how you think the name of a DRINK that inspired these cupcakes is unacceptable…Go somewhere else. I am senstitive to the loss and plight of the people oversea's and what you have gone through, but this is not the place for it. C'mon people. Its just a baked good. get over it.
OMG shut up already….your ridiculous comments are really on my nerves and im usually a very patient person.
Sorry, my reply was meant for Catherine the great…i don know why it went under your name!!! Anyway, please shut up Catherine
I'm a lurker and love your recipes but I have to chime in today because WOW! people need to freakin calm down, it's a name of a drink and if you google Irish Bomb Cupcakes there's A LOT!!! are all the haters out there commenting on these peoples post too and telling them to change the name! are those haters also going into all the bars and telling them that there offended and won't be visiting there establishments because they make them?? I wanted to have a food blog but after reading all the hate mail you guys receive I couldn't do it..I would be pissed off all the dam time..If you look at the website Cupcakes Take The Cake they are featuring Irish Bomb Cupcakes too, so hey look more people to put down..go get em! Poor taste my butt..don't change the name and keep on posting your fabulous recipes…Off my soapbox..but geez if you have nothing nice to say to her..stay off her blog..there just a name of a CUPCAKE..
You took the words right out of my mouth! Thank You Thank You!!!! I really can not even begin to imagine how much time and effort Michelle must put into this wonderful blog! I truly appreciate all the great recipes and stories she shares !! Keep your head held high Michelle , keep up the great job you do on your blogs. There is always one party pooper in the crowd!
OK Mandy, just follow the herd and sanction names that mean death and injury. Just because another blog has the name doesn't mean it's a good idea. And Smitten Kitchen, from where this recipe is lifted, actually changed the name on her blog. How do you like these names – Twin Towers Torpedo or Oklahoma Bomb Blitz for your next creation?
Dang, you sure are negative. I bet you're a hit at parties! Who crapped in your corn flakes.
GOOD… name the cupcakes whatever you want… 3000 dead cupcake surprise… they are STILL CUPCAKES… Twin Towers Cupcakes… oh my god, so offended… it is STILL CUPCAKES! Some people will make a big deal out of anything…
agreed, i'm glad that someone said something nice about the whole thing!
OMG!!!!! I got so excited, I had to do a little dance. These sound….what is a better word than incredible? Great job. I love the name and idea.
On another note…who seriously has the time to dis others? If you don't like it, there is a little box you can click to close the window. I love the name (and immediately thought of a cocktail and nothing else) and the recipe. That is what caught my eye….the booze Keep up the amazing ideas.
thank you! Finally a smart person, these other people need to get a life instead of leaving rude, and nasty comments.
I have time. Because reading about this made me shake, physically.
I think it's important to be educated. If I was writing something that made people feel sick to their stomachs and I didn't know it, I would want to know. If I was being culturally insensitive to millions of people, I would want to know it.
I've lived in the US for 17 years and never heard of this cocktail. I guess I've learned to avoid the kinds of bars where celebrating the IRA would be considered appropriate.
I know BEB didn't meant to offend anyone and that it's not her fault the drink is called that. But now that she knows how horrific this seems to many of us, maybe she'll be horrified too.
I'm posting because I want Americans to understand this cultural disconnection between us – and because so many people reached out to me after 9/11 and said "why does the rest of the world hate us?". Cultural sensitivity to the things other people hold dear is a good start in promoting peace.
It is not an exaggeration to suggest that this is in as poor taste as naming a foodstuff The Oklahoma City or The Toppling World Trade Center.
This is just a baking blog. Please, commenters, consider being kind to people who have lived through horrific times.
You need to get a grip. The drink has been around since the 70′s. You are getting your panties in a bunch over something that's been around for wuite a while AND you're taking it out on someone who didn't even invent the original drink. You are just coming off like a hypersensitve loon with no sense of perspective in your crusade against this cupcake.
I'm pretty mellow but the comments of you and others like you about how "insensitive" we all are is just pissing me off.
Lauren, would you be just as blase if the cupcake and cocktail referred to September 11th or the Holocaust? I can appreciate the fact that BEB didn't mean to offend anyone but what really makes me sick is the people commenting on this telling everyone who is offended to calm down. Imagine the bloody uproar if it was an Irish blogger baking a twin towers cake to celebrate the fourth of July. Use your brain, FFS.
JP, stop trolling this awesome blog. I agree that when I heard the name of this cupcake, I also immediately thought of the shot/drink. Not a murderous rampage. People that are complaining about this name are just trying to get a rise out of anyone that'll read their complaints. You're one of those obviously. Go troll on Yahoo Answers. That site was made for idiots like you.
You sound so dumb right now.
If people disagree with you, it does not make them trolls.
If people want to voice their opinion about something that hurts, you do not have the right to tell them to be quiet.
If people want to educate others, it is not your business to tell them to stop.-
Then maybe you shouldn't post about how un-educated Americans are. It only feeds the cycle of hate. I am truely sorry if the name has offended you, I can see why the name could be offensive. However, Michelle has not personally named these cupcakes herself and has meant no harm.
@Mandy Scheider, I am not a "hater" as you so eloquently put it but I am someone living in the UK knowing exactly what damage has been done to people's lives and families because of Irish car bombs (the real ones) and I have honestly never heard of a cocktail called an "Irish car bomb" and I suspect some of the posters above haven't either. Just because to you it is just a name of a cupcake doesn't mean that other people don't have the right to get upset or a little offended by it. If like me, you've never heard of a cocktail called an Irish car bomb, it seems a little rude to see a recipe on a website with such a distasteful name. Before you start lecturing me I would like to say that I am not in any way accusing BEB of any hatred. I think it may be wise for commenters from both sides of the Atlantic to enlighten themselves on why this is offensive to some people. There are plenty of names that I am sure Americans would not like to be given to cupcakes because they would find them offensive. Before you start accusing people of being "haters" it might be a good idea for you to perhaps think of both sides of an argument/opinion which you do not seem to be able to do.
Hear, hear.
How far back would you care to go? After all, in history there were many native peoples that were harmed on many continents, by England. Ireland is no exception. The bottom line is violence and dominance is heartbreaking. Let us NOT dominate a lovely food blog with politics. However it is good to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with real history along with the good foods.
I made the cupcakes and they are FANTASTIC. Thank you Brown Eyed Baker!
I'm not ignoring the fact that the recipe sounds gorgeous and I'm not trying to be political, I'm simply trying to explain to some posters why some of us are offended. None of us are blaming BEB. This is the first time I have ever heard of such a name, unfortunately this happens to be the site where I discovered it. I'm not saying BEB or anyone who enjoys the cocktails/cupcakes are insensitive/whatever and I don't appreciate the dig about England harming people on other continents, that was not, and still is not, my point.
I also find it hard to understand how a country that celebrates St Patrick's Day in a huge way can in good faith drink a cocktail/eat a cupcake named after a dark period of Irish history. It is almost like the troubles in Ireland are being glorified.
Maybe someone can come up with a delicious boozy orange cupcake with the words Agent Orange in the title.
There is an Agent Orange cocktail. It has bourbon, rum, apple schnapps, triple sec, vodka, canadian whiskey, grenadine and orange juice in it.
I would I would so eat that! Boozy orange would be awesome with any name on it!
Katherine ,I"m afraid England has done a lot of Damage around the world
and have a lot to answer for because of what they have done to the Irish people including leaving millions to starve to death in the 1840s even though there was plenty of food being produced in the country . England has plundered ,raped and murdered their way around the world for centuries, so the next time you are offered an Irish car bomb and feel offended, well examine your own conscience as well
Slan agus Beanacht-
Rock On Domhnall from O'Raghailligh!
I think you're taking this too far now Jenna. As Terry Pratchett says, "Multiple exclamation marks, the sure sign of an insane mind." Katherine is being reasonable, making her points eloquently and with reasoned argument. You, however, are making it personal, which is really not cool. Now, I know this is the internet, and people can act however they like, anonymously. But this particular space is a personal blog, and I know that if you were leaving comments like the above to fellow readers on my blog, I would be pretty unimpressed. Chill out, and just enjoy your cupcakes- by all accounts, they *are* delicious
Yeah, Jenna
You need to watch those exclamation marks. They are seriously taking it "too far." The crotchety old ladies that lurk baking blogs might find it offensive. LOL you people are so hilarious.PS: Anyone who thinks that using multiple exclamation marks is a sign of insanity is clearly a wackjob. Also, I never made the cupcakes and probably never will. I just felt the need to stop and point out how ridiculous you sound.
Love the cupcakes! Hate the drama that some people are bringing to the party, here!
Well I suppose us Brits are just a bunch of sticks in the mud. I guess I'll make some 'Dachau Gas Chamber' cocktails and if any Jewish people get upset tell them not to be so darn dramatic. Or maybe some nice Twin Tower layer cakes, and if any of you Americans get upset… well, you shouldn't be bringing any drama to the party now shoud you?!
dude, you are talking about a fucking cupcake! Gas chamber cupcake? Are you insane? Oh no "twin tower layer cake" now that is just crazy. I guess you Brits have a really common shot that it names "twin towers" something or other? The "irish car bomb" has been so common here for so long and no big deal, but talk about putting it in a cup cake and the world is coming to an end! Fucking stupid.
Maybe you should include a disclaimer like, "No Irish were harmed in the making of these cupcakes" so people don't get thier panties in a runch.
They look so delish! Can't wait to try!!
I just made this cake last night! How funny to see it on this morning on your blog. I made mine into a single layer cake (with 6 cupcakes left over), and frosted it with the peanut butter frosting recipe from her (which uses the natural stuff, just peanuts and salt!) http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Chocolate-Cake-with-Milk-Chocolate-Peanut-Butter-Frosting-and-Peanut-Butter-Brittle-351020
Just in case you're ever interested in a new'do for the cake! So, so, tasty!
I made a different version of these last night, sans the filling. I used Young's Double Chocolate Stout and the recipe for both cake and Irish Cream frosting differ but they were DELICIOUS! The Young's brings an excellent flavor to the cupcakes. I posted them on my blog this morning because they were that good! Sent the rest with hubby to work though…I'd eat them all!
Thank you so much for sharing these! I have wanted to make them for a year now and spotted them on your blog. I made these tonight and they turned out wonderfully! I'm super excited to share these with my friends over some green beer tomorrow…I linked you here http://damegoodeats.blogspot.com/2011/03/irish-car-bomb-cupcakes.html
thanks again! -
I made these to bring to work tomorrow — both my husband and I almost passed out from how delicious they were. Cannot wait to hear what everyone has to say tomorrow. I did leave out the ganache thinking that ALL the alcohol would make them NSFW. I will make them again for this weekend WITH the ganache
I've made these a bunch of times from smitten kitchen and they are amazing. The only improvement I've found is using a Sweet/Milk Stout. The cupcakes are much more yummy without the dry bitterness of the Guinness. They are a hit every time I make them. FYI, the same argument about the name took place on smitten's site and she ended up changing the name to Chocolate Whiskey & Beer Cupcakes. But I like Irish Cake Bomb that someone mentioned above.
I made these cupcakes last night and they are AMAZING! They disappeared very quickly at work today
I linked to these in my blog: http://jaclynscookies.blogspot.com/
Thank you for sharing this fabulous recipe! -
Great recipe! I did a post about St. Patty's Day feasts and linked to this recipe in a shoutout. Thanks for posting it! Here's my link.
Firstly, I am IRISH. I live in Sligo, situated in the North West of the country.
I love Brown Eyed Baker and all recipes she has bashed out, stellar.
I do however wish she did something a little bit more, considerate with her take in this cupcake.Americans/Canadians who are telling others to "GET OVER IT" and being over all pretty incosiderate, nasty and arrogant about Ireland's not just historic but ongoing political events, please think about what you are saying for 2 seconds and wonder how you would feel about Europe celebrating on the 4th of July with 9/11 themed cocktails and cupcakes.
A little thoughtand consideration please, for us Irish.
BEB, stunning recipe and stunning pictures as always.
Full of bacon, cabbage and trifle! No drink for me today though!
Look at me defying my sterotype -
This was wonderful! Family loved them… Thanks so much for the idea!
Oh and just for sh**s and giggles….
Google results:
"St. Patty's day" = About 33,500,000 results
"St. Paddy's day" = About 1,200,000 resultsWhen in America, dear Catherine…
I am not in the United States of America. And neither was St. Patrick.
Doesn't matter, we are…
And Google is NEVER wrongAnyway, time to stop stalking the page and more along. Gotta see what other great recipes Michelle has come up with.
I thought St Patrick's day was an Irish holiday?
Maybe the Irish should adopt the Fourth of July and rename it something like, oh I don't the, the Fortha July. And make Twin Towers cocktails and cakes then when you lot get your panties in a bunch say "hey stop being so dramatic, it's in the past, man!"-
So, all of my Irish friends (there are a lot of Irish people in this country) should just not celebrate the holiday because they are in America? Just as I would expect any Americans in other countries would celebrate the 4th of July simply because it is a holiday with meaning to them. I myself am not Irish and do not wear green or celebrate the holiday, but I do not go around bashing others who do celebrate the holiday simply because they aren't in Ireland.
I am an American and I wouldn't sit around throwing a hissy fit because someone made a twin towers cocktail. So yeah, I would say you are dramatic. No one said "Wow you people, getting upset over car bombs. How unreasonable." They are saying you are unreasonable for getting upset over a CUPCAKE. Perhaps if you want to do society a service, you could stop crying over this cupcake recipe and help out at a local charity. Jesus.
OH AND ACTUALLY I do donate to local charities, in fact £20 comes out my account to the local childrens hospital here in Edinburgh every month. And if you think commenting on my blog saying I'm a drama queen is going to bother me, the only folk who read it are my Scottish and Irish friends who also think "Irish Car Bomb" is a sick name for a cupcake/cocktail as we lived through the Troubles.
I'd bet your friends are British Loyalists living somewhere in
the six occupied counties in the north east of Ireland.
My friend moved here directly from Ireland. I had him try the "Irish Car Bomb" and he said it was something he would have again. He didn't go on criticizing the name. As to having a cocktail named "Twin Towers" I had a family member die in the towers that day and I would in no way be offended. If it was a good drink I would probably say a toast to my relative and then drink it.
You sound so dumb.
OMG- These are insanely ridiculously delicious! We purchased, we created and we CONQUERED! Each cupcake weighs seemingly a pound (it's the butter) and were the most decadent treats to eat and share. I work at a high school, shared them with my teachers and staff and felt like I was gifting precious little cups of St. Patrick's Day "forbidden" goodness…fantastic all around!
"The Omagh bombing was a paramilitary car bomb attack carried out by the Real Irish Republican Army (RIRA), a splinter group of former Provisional Irish Republican Army members opposed to the Belfast Agreement, on Saturday 15 August 1998, in Omagh, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. Twenty-nine people died as a result of the attack and approximately 220 people were injured. The attack was described by the BBC as "Northern Ireland's worst single terrorist atrocity" and by the British Prime Minister, Tony Blair, as an "appalling act of savagery and evil". Sinn Féin leaders Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness condemned the attack and the RIRA itself.
The victims included people from many different backgrounds: Protestants, Catholics, a Mormon teenager, five other teenagers, six children, a woman pregnant with twins, two Spanish tourists, and other tourists on a day trip from the Republic of Ireland."
From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omagh_bombing
Enjoy your cupcakes.
The cupcakes look delicious and I'm sure brown eyed baker is a lovely person:)
I AM IRISH, born and brought up in Derry, Northern Ireland (Catholic side) during the Troubles and I can't even begin to tell you how offensive I find the name. If you too have had friends hurt and traumatised by bomb blasts, then by all means name your cakes after them, but if you havent I would love it if you would change the name : )
Please don't trivialise our history – Teresa x
I made these last year and they were delicious. The frosting is amazing!
On the subject of the name: This is a drink that's available at any bar in the U.S. that serves Guinness. It may not be on the menu, but it is available. We also have drinks called sake bombs, Jagerbombs and cherry bombs. They all are similar in that there is a larger drink in which you drop a shot of something and then chug the whole thing.
Now, I completely understand why the name is so offensive to those who live or hail from Ireland. But please understand that BEB did not make up this name, and changing the name on this blog would not change the name of the drink or what the vast majority of Americans would think when they saw a recipe for chocolate-Guinness cupcakes with chocolate-whiskey ganache and Baileys frosting. It is a cupcake based on a drink with an offensive (to those who know) name.
However, it should be mentioned that A LOT of names for cocktails in the United States are offensive to someone. As a redhead, I can't tell you how many times men have thought it was hilarious/cute to buy me a "Redheaded Slut" shot. There are also such gems as the Buttery Nipple, Agent Orange (as someone mentioned above) and one that is too gross to even type here but ends with the phrase "in the toilet." I would not be at all surprised if bars in the U.S served something called the World Trade Center or the Oklahoma City or the Taliban IED. (Actually, I just Googled it and there *IS* a drink called an IED, developed by Marines who served in Afghanistan). I mean, our nation's capital has an (American) football team called the Redskins. We just aren't very PC.
So, I do think it's important for us all to understand the history and ongoing problems in Ireland (which we very rarely hear about here in the United States), but lashing out at BEB will not stop extremists or even make a tiny dent in the number of people here who call the associated drink an offensive name. I would guess the only real way to make a change would be to talk to the American suppliers of Guinness, Baileys and Jamison directly.
Jen, thank you for a much more thoughtful response than the many insensitive "Get over it" comments. I understand your point, but I would argue that "the vast majority of Americans" associating those three ingredients with that cocktail is overstating the case. I'm American and had never heard of it–it may be more common in some areas. But that's beside the point, because, as someone pointed out earlier, it's no big deal to accidentally cause offense, but once you've been made aware that you're causing offense, you correct the mistake and don't do it again. I did not blame BEB for not realising this was offensive, but now that she knows and has neither changed the offending name, nor responded to the (pretty reasonable) protests in any way (at least I haven't seen any) to explain why she thinks it necessary to keep the name, I'm afraid I've lost a great deal of respect for and interest in this blog. Again, I don't expect BEB or anyone else to keep others from calling a cocktail what they will, but she could call the cupcakes what she liked and still give its relationship to the cocktail in the background. To me, that BEB has not addressed or acknowledged those she offended communicates that she doesn't care.
This is the most amazing comment thread I have ever read on a baking blog! Kudos to everyone who chimed in!
Who said bakers were all fluff?
Love the cupcakes.
Love the history reminders.
Love the passionI would have use exclamation marks on all sentences, but I did not want to be considered insane
I find it all extraordinarily humorous!!!…oops, I guess that makes me insane
OMG! Love that book….
http://www.lemondrop.com/2010/06/25/blue-hawaii-pineapple-upside-down-cupcakes/ -
I was looking for something new and fun to make for this past St Patrics day and came across this recipe. These were, without a doubt, the most delicious cupcakes I ever made! They were absolutely awesome! A total hit and so pretty too! Thank you for sharing. I can't wait to try some of your other recipes. Very nice website! I am an avid cook/baker and really appreciate having new places to go for recipes!
OK, I'm 90% sure I'm crazy here, but … that frosting's butter-to-sugar ratio looks totally insane to me. But that's what you meant? It's not "2 sticks" or anything?
Cupcakes are cooling; ganache and frosting will come in the morning. Then, when I take them to work, all shall love me and despair. MWAH HA HA HA HA!
Jen, concerning your response: A lot of offensive sounding cocktails are ordered by a lot of offensive drunks. I am assuming one is sober when one bakes and posts. Are there any cupcakes on your site called Redheaded Slut? Names like that are abusive. There are other alternatives. How about Guiness Blast cupcakes? Or Guiness chocolate bombs?
And just a little extra knowledge..cocktails aren't usually created and named by "drunken people"..it is the bartender as well as mixologists hired by specific liquor distributors who create such recipies. Offensive names are a marketing ploy..and it actually is quite brilliant..a Red Headed Slut, which is a delicious shot, btw, really is shocking enough to stick in your mind instantly(obviously)..and you will only order what you remember, correct?? Even if you are too shy or offended to actually say the name..most will refer to it so that I know exactly what they are ordering. Some people will order the shot of offensive name simply to "shock" by saying it out loud..thus falling right into the marketing ploy. Genius.Apparently worked on you, huh?
I don't know if someone posted this question but, what icing tip is the one you used to make these cupcakes? I simply love how they look!!!
Yaneri, she did…
Michelle March 16, 2011 at 11:39 pm
Hi Michelle, I used a Wilton 1M tip and just sort of swirled it around. Enjoy the cupcakes!
Happy baking!
These cupcakes were simply delicious!! I made mine without the ganache (I found the recipe the morning of St. Pat's and didn't have the time to make it, I wanted the cupcakes ASAP!), and they were very very tasty. I have mounds of frosting left, however. I MUST find another use for it, pronto! Thanks BEB, they were wonderful!
Hmmmm…wondering if there is a non-boozy adaptation of this. Don't worry, I totally intend on making these for a party coming up very soon, but for the "underage" folk, and some of the HRs that don't drink at all…I'm wondering. If you replace Guinness with coffee (atrocity!) and the Bailey's with "Irish Cream Flavored" coffee creamer and nix the whiskey from the ganache…would it make a reasonable (if not somewhat boring) substitute?
Shall I be the last to comment on this subject? Probably not… I love this blog-the recipes and the photos are awesome and I read it all the time (via foodbuzz) and sometimes I make a comment. I'm a child of the seventies and born and bred in the UK, so I grew up with the IRA being quite a dominant force in my childhood. I didn't see above anyone saying specifically what the name means to them, but for those of you that can be bothered to read this – this is what it means to me..
- it means my Mom being totally petrified to go shopping in the local town centre (Birmingham) for the fear that there would be a car bomb. At the time, the IRA had bombed numerous pubs in Birmingham. One of them was right next to where the cinema was, slap bang in the centre, and I remember every time as a young 'un walking past that doorway, remembering there had been a bomb there, and lives lost.
- When I was a little older, I distinctly remember 2 soldiers being killed near where I went to university in Stafford, they were bombed. Young men in their late teens / early twenties as I was at the time it happened.
- A little older still – Omagh. I remember watching this on TV. The total devastation on the streets of that town. A town quite literally torn apart.So, for some a tasty cocktail, and for others a bunch of sobering memories – those years and those events were not known as 'the atrocities' and 'the troubles' for nothing. I'm not criticising anyone's view point though. I wish I thought it was a lovely cocktail too, and I wanted to tell you all what went through my mind when I read the title.
So, it's a thumbs up for cupcakes and BEB, and a thumbs down to terrorism and those horrible memories.
I have just stumbled this site and have received a huge shock to my system. To attach such flagrant disregard to other peoples views and feelings is disgusting. In 1984, in Brighton which is in the South East of England myself (aged 11) and my family where staying in the Grand hotel. Unfortunately for us so was the Prime Minister at the time, Margaret Thatcher who the IRA targeted by bombing the hotel. We were thundered awake in the small hours by what I can only describe as the whole world exploding (or thats how it seemed at the time). What followed was pure panic, my mother screaming for me and my brother..my father behaving in a way I had never seen him behave before (or since), adults everywhere crying, terrible shock and fear. Five people lost their lives that night. To this day I have nightmares about that night.
Show some respect at least for others and change this horrendous..I can barely believe I am saying it…name for a cupcake!-
I similarly stumbled and felt the same. It seems from other commenters that the misery and fear created from terrorism is only 'real' if it happens to Americans; everyone else should just get over it, and not care that a cupcake is belittling the pain of murderous violence (violence that is still ongoing, with one carbomb killing one person this week, and another defused).
I stumbled the same, the disregard some people have for others is astounding. Clearly by finding something offensive you are being a troll. I'll 'get over it' when the violence stops.
I understand that those who are not from the States have found the name to be a bit offensive. It is a cocktail, I'm sure the author of this recipe had no malicious intent when she wrote it. She was not trying to offend anyone, or hurt their sensibilities. Sometimes, I think it is okay to simply accept things, you may call this recipe whatever you like, but since she is following the cocktails ingredients to a T, I understand why she used the name.
Being that I am from an Irish family, I have heard many stories of Ireland during the time that the IRA was active. I've still not been into the North of Ireland, simply because of my Mother was never allowed to visit (for it was dangerous to) during her childhood. Every country has had gloomy periods in the past, and Ireland has experienced more than it's share. It wouldn't be right to forget their past, especially not during the time of The Troubles, but one has to differentiate between an actual jab at the country and a harmless name of a cocktail. I doubt many American's know much about the IRA or what they did. All they know is that there is a cocktail that uses Guinness, Baileys, and whiskey and it taste like chocolate milk. I truly doubt anyone who drinks it is trying to offend anyone. -
I just received these cupcakes as a gift for my recent birthday, the recipe found on this website. They were delicious. I didn't see the discussion on their name until recently, so forgive my late entry into this discussion.
A few people tried to speak common sense, but I think most of those people were tunnel visioning a little bit. The fact is that a well established cocktail is called an "Irish Car Bomb." Appropriate or not, these cupcakes are named what they are because they contain the ingredients necessary in the cocktail bearing the same name.
There are loads of cocktails with wierd names, it is strange that these people chose to zero in on this one in particular. Leaving alone the fact that I am Irish, and although I do not condone their methods, the IRA was fighting for the independance of their country, people tend to make light of many serious issues to try and come to terms with those issues. One of the methods they use to do this is by naming drinks: "3-Mile Island" – traumatic nuclear melt down; now a drink, "Bloody Mary" – Queen Mary I bruned hundreds of religious dissenters at the stake; now a drink, "Kamikaze" – pilots who killed themselves and hundreds of allied troops in WWII; now a drink, "Liquid Cocaine" – drug that kills millions between it's use and international traffic; now a drink. I could go on for hours listing drinks that fit this criteria, people need to get a perspective.
The nursery rhyme, "Ring Around the Rosie" is about the Black Death and we teach our children to recite it. The bottom line is that we as a populous cope with serious tragedy in many ways. Maybe the inventor of the Irish Car Bomb created the drink as a reminder so that people would not forget the tragedies that unfolded at the hands of the IRA.
Ian – congratulations for the most misinformed post in the history of the internet!
1. The IRA was not fighting for the independance of their country. The IRA are from Ireland, which is an independant and sovereign country, it attempted to bomb the British govt into handing over land that is part of the UK. They had no mandate from anyone in the republic ever. You cannot be Irish otherwise you would know this. I suspect you are American/Irish i.e. American. Not Irish. Apologies if I am wrong, if I am then you have obviously been living in Ireland with you head up your arse.
2. Ring around the Rosie is not about the black death.
http://www.snopes.com/language/literary/rosie.asp3. People are not still being killed by the 3 mile island meltdown, Bloody Mary or Kamikaze pilots, they are still being killed by Irish Car Bombs.
4. Cocaine does not kill millions. I am not advocating the use of it but it doesnt kill anywhere near that many, a couple of thousand in the US (thats related as well not just from OD's). Most of these make the choice to take cocaine, no-one chooses to be blown up by a car bomb.
The point is that this maybe a well known cocktail in some parts of the US but it is not in the rest of the world and specifically the UK and Ireland.
The people in Northern Ireland cannot forget car bombings because they are still happening.
IEDs are still killing people. Americans, even. We still have a drink named after them. I think Americans use these names to add a flare of victory to tragedy. As all of you "non-Americans" love to point out, we are arrogant. We are stupid. We are uneducated. Apparently we're just assholes. Truly, I think we name these things simply to shed some light on bad situations. We like to cause shock and awe.
If you really feel like being offended, visit 4chan. All of those "OMG EEEWWW" videos out there? Most of them came from us. Arguing incessantly that we're being arrogant and rude and offensive isn't going to win. It's what we do. Our television is filled with rudeness, crudeness, offensiveness, and just plain stupidity.
I do understand the atrocity, I realize bad things happened. Unfortunately, we won't change the names. We won't realize how "poorly" our cocktails are named, because we, as a generalization, don't care.
There are PLENTY of drink names that offend me, and drinking "rituals," such as calling the last person to finish an ICB a "faggot" in a chant. Should I spend hours and days arguing with people over it? No. It's a lot of anger, and a lot of hatred, which will take so much away from the beauty that DOES exist in this world. It will even start to take years off of your life, when you could be enjoying the sweets, the drinks, and the foods.
I am truly sorry for what is happening to your country and your culture, I am, but name-calling will not win anyone over. Ever.
Er. Your link says that "Ring-a-ring-a-rosie" is about the plague… Black death IS the plague.
Bravo, Ian.
I make a recipe similar to this one, but I make the ganache first and then make the batter. Just before baking, I pop a piece of frozen ganache into the center of the batter. The center stays all melty and gooey, even after these bad boys have cooled all the way. It takes a little extra effort, but it is well worth it!
The fact that you're offending so many people with your choice in naming, pretty much defeats the point of cupcakes as a whole. Or baking in general. You know that whole making people happy thing that us bakers go for.
And it's remarkably disappointing that you haven't respected the opinions of your readers, who have made very thoughtful, personal comments, and presented their views in a polite manner. For that reason I don't think I'll be following you any longer. You can't respond and say you never intended to offend anyone and then CONTINUE offending them. That makes your previous statement void.
Do I think you should submit to everyone's opinion about everything? Of course not, but really, it's not hard to come up with a cute/creative name that honors the Irish. "Guinness, Baileys and Irish Whiskey cupcakes" was not your only other option.-
Its a popular shot! One which I have regularly. I recently was in St. Maarten where several travelers never heard of the sho. locals and other travelers took part & they became a nightly ritual with everyone. No 1 took offense but rather knew it was a popular shot & not focused on horrible ugly terrorists. I respect your opinion but no need to beat down the author of this blog. Share positive energy & know it was written without harm but rather based on a cocktail. Maybe you should try 1 & see where the name comes from. I hope this eases you a bit & you can continue to enjoy the yummy blog. I know I will.
Right because this is the place to dispute the name of a cocktail (that didn't originate with this author) which someone has incorporated into a cupcake recipe. Take it up with the people who name and sell these "violent" drinks, not someone who wrote a recipe on the internet that you just happened to stumble on, unless you are the kind of people who search specifically for these things in order to stir something up and give people headache's. To "Bill": First, the Black Death is another name for the Bubonic Plague, so Ian was quite right in his statement about "Ring around the Rosie". Second, it's true those particular drinks you named might not still kill people, but there are still drinks that are named after things that DO still kill people. Perhaps you (and everyone else that has made a big stink about this) should continue your crusade against those that created (or create recipes) with these names: Mudslide, Hurricane, The Flaming Volcano, Earthquake, Deadly Nightshade, Agent Orange, etc….Looks like you all will be very busy. Meanwhile, I will be doing something much more fulfilling and worth my time by making these DELICIOUS looking cupcakes and having people stuff their faces with them
But it's complacency that often leads to atrocities. Why do people not say swear words? Because it could be offensive to people. Now this has been proven to be an offensive name, surely people should stop using it. I know that if someone found something I said offensive, I definitely wouldn't say it again. Just politeness really.
Cupcakes don't kill people. People kill people.
People are still commenting on this? Haha! Regardless of whatever the name is of the cupcake or the drink its named after, how about you all just shut the hell up, try the recipe out, enjoy the tasty cupcake and go on about your lives! That's what I'm going to do now that I've picked up some Baileys!
Geez. Be adults dammit! Enjoy your cupcakes!!!
How about a Bloody Mary?


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