Chocolate loaf cake is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers craving a rich and moist treat. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just because, this recipe is ideal for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Why is this cake so amazing? Its decadent texture and deep chocolate flavor make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Trivia question: What makes a loaf cake different from a regular cake? Answer: A loaf cake is baked in a loaf-shaped pan, which gives it a denser texture and more even cooking compared to round or square cakes.
Recipe Overview
| Yields: | 1 loaf |
| Prep Time: | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 60 minutes |
| Total Time: | 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Calories per Serving: | 350 |
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Step 5: Stir in the hot water until the batter is smooth. If using chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 52g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 32g |
| Protein | 6g |
For a visual guide, watch the video below:
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Wire rack
- Parchment paper
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Food and Drink Pairings
This chocolate loaf cake pairs wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a more decadent dessert, drizzle the cake with warm chocolate sauce and top with whipped cream.
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of baking your own homemade chocolate loaf cake. Whether you’re looking for a simple treat or an impressive dessert to share, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to my blog for more delicious baking inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the difference between a loaf cake and regular cake?
A: A loaf cake is baked in a rectangular loaf pan, resulting in a denser texture compared to regular cakes, which are typically baked in round or square pans.
Q: Are loaf cake and pound cake the same?
A: While similar, a pound cake traditionally uses a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, resulting in a denser texture. A loaf cake can vary more in ingredients and texture.
Q: What is a Mary Jane cake?
A: A Mary Jane cake is a type of cake made with molasses and spices, named after the Mary Jane candy, which has a similar flavor profile.
Q: What is the difference between chocolate bread and cake?
A: Chocolate bread generally has a denser, less sweet texture suitable for breakfast or snacking, while chocolate cake is lighter, sweeter, and often served as a dessert.
