Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe

This rich, fudgy chocolate loaf cake is incredibly moist and perfect for any chocolate lover. It’s simple to make, keeps well, and can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a luscious glaze.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk (or ½ cup milk + 1 teaspoon vinegar)
• ½ cup (120ml) hot water or coffee (for enhanced chocolate flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Chocolate glaze (see below)
• Whipped cream or ice cream

For the Chocolate Glaze (optional):

• ½ cup (85g) semisweet chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) heavy cream

Instructions

1. Prepare for Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and line a 9×5-inch (23x13cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

1. In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:

1. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, hot water (or coffee), and vanilla extract.

4. Make the Batter:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the wet ingredients. Begin and end with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.

5. Bake the Cake:

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Prepare the Glaze (Optional):

1. Heat the chocolate chips and heavy cream in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Pour the glaze over the cooled cake and let it set for about 15 minutes.

Tips for Success:

• Use room-temperature ingredients for an even batter.
• For extra moisture, wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and let it sit overnight before serving.
• Coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, but you can use hot water if you prefer.

Enjoy this decadent chocolate loaf cake as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat!