Chocolate Loaf Cake

This chocolate loaf cake is rich, tender, and deeply flavoured, offering a perfectly moist crumb with a velvety chocolate finish. Topped with smooth melted chocolate and subtle decorative chips, it is ideal for everyday baking, gatherings, or simply enjoying with an afternoon drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This loaf cake provides a refined chocolate experience without requiring complex techniques. It uses pantry staples, mixes easily, and bakes into a beautifully structured loaf with consistent texture. The topping enhances both presentation and flavour, offering an indulgent yet balanced dessert. It slices cleanly, stores well, and remains soft for days, making it a versatile addition to any recipe collection.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
unsweetened cocoa powder
baking powder
baking soda
salt
granulated sugar
brown sugar
eggs
milk or buttermilk
vegetable oil or melted butter
vanilla extract
hot coffee or hot water
chocolate chips (for topping)
melted chocolate (optional for swirl)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In another bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract.

4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix gently until just combined.

5. Pour in hot coffee or hot water and stir until the batter is smooth and glossy.

6. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan.

7. Top with chocolate chips or swirl in melted chocolate for added richness.

8. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out mostly clean.

9. Allow the loaf to cool before slicing to ensure a clean cut.

Servings and Timing

Serves 8–10 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour

Variations

– Add orange zest for a citrus–chocolate profile.
– Incorporate espresso powder for enhanced richness.
– Mix in chopped nuts for added texture.
– Substitute buttermilk for a softer, tender crumb.
– Use dark chocolate chunks for a more intense flavour.

Storage/Reheating

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days.
Refrigerate for up to one week if preferred.
Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a soft, melty texture.
Freeze for up to two months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Why is my loaf dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to density. Mix only until combined.

Can I replace the oil with butter?

Yes, melted butter may be used, though the loaf will be slightly firmer.

Can I bake this in a muffin tin?

Yes. Reduce baking time to 18–22 minutes.

Why add hot coffee?

It enhances the chocolate flavour and improves batter consistency.

Can I make this loaf gluten-free?

Use a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but the crumb may become slightly drier.

Should the loaf cool completely before slicing?

Yes, cooling prevents crumbling and ensures clean slices.

Can I add frosting?

A chocolate glaze or cream cheese frosting complements this loaf very well.

Why is my loaf cracked on top?

A cracked top is normal and occurs from rising during baking.

Can I add fruit?

Chopped cherries, raspberries, or bananas pair nicely with chocolate.

Conclusion

This chocolate loaf cake offers a timeless blend of richness, simplicity, and versatility. With its moist interior and elegant chocolate topping, it is a reliable dessert for both special occasions and everyday enjoyment. Easy to prepare and delightful to serve, it is sure to become a favourite in any baker’s repertoire.

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