Chocolate Loaf Cake is a dream come true for any chocolate lover! This moist and chocolaty one-bowl cake is topped with a rich, fudgy frosting that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for any occasion or even as a delightful snack, this easy recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. With each slice, you’ll experience the warmth and comfort that only a homemade cake can provide. Let’s dive into how to create this indulgent treat!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Loaf Cake

This Chocolate Loaf Cake stands out for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly moist, thanks to the addition of sour cream and oil, ensuring that each bite melts in your mouth. Second, the rich chocolate flavor is enhanced by hot brewed coffee, making it a true chocolate lover’s cake. It’s also versatile; you can enjoy it plain or dress it up with frosting, and it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday or just a cozy evening at home. Plus, this cake is easy to make, requiring just one bowl, which means less cleanup! With its delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, it’s guaranteed to impress family and friends alike. Lastly, if you’re looking for a gluten-free or vegan option, we’ve got you covered with variations of this classic recipe.

Delicious Chocolate Loaf Cake You Can't Resist - Chocolate Loaf Cake - main visual representation

Ingredients for Chocolate Loaf Cake

Gather these items:

1⅓ cups (167g) all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
1⅓ cups (266g) granulated sugar
½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (104g) neutral flavored oil (such as canola or vegetable oil)
½ cup (120g) sour cream (not nonfat)
2 large eggs
1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
⅓ cup (72g) hot brewed coffee
½ cup (90g) mini chocolate chips (optional but recommended)
⅔ cup (117g) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate chips
¼ cup (85g) honey
2 tablespoons milk
¼ cup (23g) unsweetened cocoa powder
6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter (softened)
⅔ cup (80g) powdered sugar (sifted if lumpy)
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
flaky sea salt and/or chocolate shavings (optional garnish)

How to Make Chocolate Loaf Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F with a rack in the center of the oven.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Add oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla and beat with an electric mixer until just combined. Occasionally scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. While the mixer is running slowly add in the hot coffee and beat until the batter comes together. Stir in the mini chocolate chips.
Step 3: Grease a 9×5 metal loaf pan and pour the batter into the pan. Tap the pan on the countertop a few times to release air bubbles.
Step 4: Bake for 40 minutes, then loosely tent the top with foil and continue baking another 10-15 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with some moist fudgy crumbs on it (no raw batter). Place the pan on a wire rack to cool to room temperature.
Step 5: Place the chocolate chips, honey, and milk in a large microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 15 second increments, stirring well in between, until fully melted and combined. Whisk in cocoa powder and set aside to cool to room temperature (this took about 5 minutes).
Step 6: Cut the softened butter into several pieces and add it to the melted chocolate along with the powdered sugar and vanilla. Note: if your powdered sugar is lumpy you can sift it into the bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat until smooth and combined, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. At this point, the frosting will be on the thinner side, I think that works well for frosting the top of the cake. If you want it a little more firm you can pop it in the refrigerator for 10 minutes or you can mix in a little more powdered sugar.
Step 7: Use an offset spatula to spread a thick layer of frosting on top of the cake. Top with flaky sea salt or chocolate shavings (if desired). You can place the frosted cake in the fridge for 10 minutes to help the frosting firm up or it will slowly thicken on its own at room temperature.

Delicious Chocolate Loaf Cake You Can't Resist - Chocolate Loaf Cake - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Loaf Cake

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality cocoa powder for better flavor.
Room temperature ingredients work best for a smooth batter.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
For an extra moist chocolate cake, consider adding a tablespoon of yogurt or buttermilk.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for the best texture.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Loaf Cake

There are many delightful ways to enjoy your Chocolate Loaf Cake. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. You can also pair it with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. For special occasions, consider serving it with a rich chocolate ganache or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce. This cake is also perfect for birthdays, where you can add a personal touch with decorative frosting!

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Loaf Cake

To keep your Chocolate Loaf Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. This method ensures that your cake remains moist and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Loaf Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Loaf Cake?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients, especially cocoa powder, and ensuring that your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature. This creates a smooth batter that bakes evenly, resulting in a moist chocolate cake.

Can I make Chocolate Loaf Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Loaf Cake?

To avoid common pitfalls, measure your ingredients accurately and don’t skip the step of preheating the oven. Also, be careful not to overmix your batter, as this can lead to a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy one.

Variations of Chocolate Loaf Cake You Can Try

There are several fun variations of this classic recipe that you can experiment with. You could try a Chocolate Banana Loaf Cake by adding ripe bananas for added flavor and moisture. For those seeking gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you want to make it vegan, use flax eggs and dairy-free yogurt instead. Each variation brings its unique twist to this delightful cake!

For more baking tips, check out this easy cinnamon rolls recipe or learn about homemade tomato sauce for a delicious pairing!

Additionally, if you’re interested in the health benefits of chocolate, you can read more about it here.