Ultimate Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake
Introduction
If you’re a true chocolate lover, this rich and ultra-moist chocolate loaf cake is a must-try! With an intense cocoa flavor, a tender, soft crumb, and a beautifully crackled top, it’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a simple dessert with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients
1½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup vegetable oil
½ cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup hot coffee or hot water
½ cup chocolate chips, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Add the wet ingredients
Add the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla. Whisk gently until the batter is smooth and well combined. Don’t overmix.
4. Add the hot coffee
Slowly pour in the hot coffee while stirring. The batter will become fairly thin—this is exactly what helps create a wonderfully moist cake.
5. Add chocolate chips
Fold in the chocolate chips if using, reserving a few for sprinkling over the top.
6. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chips. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
7. Cool and serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Easy Chocolate Glaze — Optional
For an extra-indulgent finish, melt ½ cup chocolate chips with 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Stir until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled loaf.
Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Loaf
Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor.
Don’t overbake—the center should remain tender and moist.
Hot coffee intensifies the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste strongly of coffee.
Let the loaf cool completely before slicing for the best texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
One slice is never enough!