Chocolate Loaf Cake – Moist, Rich, and Easy to Make

Chocolate Loaf Cake is a decadent and moist dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just craving a chocolate treat, this loaf cake delivers rich chocolate flavor with minimal effort. Its soft, tender crumb makes it ideal for slicing and serving with a cup of coffee or tea. This easy-to-make cake is also perfect for gifting or bringing to family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, chocolatey flavor in every bite
  • Moist and tender crumb, perfect for slicing
  • Quick and easy to prepare, no complicated techniques
  • Ideal for desserts, snacks, or breakfast treats
  • Can be dressed up with chocolate glaze or powdered sugar
  • Perfect for gifting or sharing with friends and family

Ingredients

Flat lay of flour, cocoa, sugar, eggs, and butter for chocolate loaf cake

  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Cocoa powder
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Vegetable oil or melted butter
  • Vanilla extract
  • Hot water or coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)
  • Optional: chocolate chips or nuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Collage showing steps to make chocolate loaf cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually mix wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth.
  5. Stir in hot water or coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor. Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.
  6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips & Variations

  • Use brewed coffee instead of hot water for a deeper chocolate flavor.
  • Add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture.
  • Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate glaze before serving.
  • Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier version.
  • Make mini loaves or muffins for easy portioning and gift-giving.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

  • Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Wrap in plastic wrap or foil; lasts up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Slice and freeze in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Slice of chocolate loaf cake served with chocolate drizzle or whipped cream

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
  • Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
  • Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
  • Garnish with nuts or chocolate shavings for presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Use plant-based milk and vegan butter or oil to make this cake dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.

How long does the cake stay fresh?

At room temperature, it lasts 3 days. Refrigerated, it keeps up to a week. Sliced portions can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I add other flavors?

Absolutely! Orange zest, coffee, or a pinch of cinnamon can be added to enhance the flavor.

Is it okay to use chocolate chips or nuts?

Yes! Chocolate chips add extra richness, and nuts provide a crunchy texture that complements the cake.

Ready to Make It?

This Chocolate Loaf Cake is a moist, flavorful, and easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm, sliced for breakfast, or gifted to friends, it’s guaranteed to satisfy chocolate lovers.

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Sliced chocolate loaf cake on a plate

Chocolate Loaf Cake


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  • Author: Myla
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (10–12 slices)

Description

Chocolate Loaf Cake is a moist, rich, and easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion. Its tender crumb and deep chocolate flavor make it ideal for slicing, serving with coffee, or gifting to friends and family.


Ingredients

All-purpose flour

Granulated sugar

Cocoa powder

Baking powder

Baking soda

Salt

Eggs

Milk

Vegetable oil or melted butter

Vanilla extract

Hot water or coffee

Optional: chocolate chips or nuts


Instructions

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

2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract.

4. Gradually mix wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth.

5. Stir in hot water or coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor. Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using.

6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Allow cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Use brewed coffee instead of hot water for a deeper chocolate flavor.

Add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture.

Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate glaze before serving.

Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier version.

Make mini loaves or muffins for easy portioning and gift-giving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Cake
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 190mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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