This Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake is rich, decadent, and incredibly soft—perfect for chocolate lovers! It’s easy to make and works as a dessert, snack, or even a sweet breakfast treat. Topped with a luscious chocolate glaze or dusted with powdered sugar, this cake is bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (50g) cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup (180ml) buttermilk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) hot coffee (or hot water)
Optional Toppings
- Chocolate glaze (melted chocolate mixed with cream)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until smooth and well combined.
4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Add the Hot Coffee
- Slowly pour in the hot coffee and mix until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal for a moist cake.
6. Pour and Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Add the Topping
- For a chocolate glaze, melt 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream and pour it over the cooled cake. Alternatively, dust with powdered sugar for a simpler finish.
Tips for Success
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures the batter mixes evenly and results in a smooth texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking the cake around the 50-minute mark.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Storage
- At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: Wrap tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with fresh berries for a fruity contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
Conclusion
This Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake is everything you want in a chocolate dessert: rich, soft, and deeply flavorful. It’s perfect for any occasion and easy enough to whip up whenever the chocolate craving strikes. Try this recipe and delight your taste buds with a slice of chocolaty heaven!