Ultra-Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake
If you’re craving something decadent yet easy to make, this Ultra-Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake is the perfect treat! This chocolatey delight is exceptionally moist and packed with rich flavor, making it a wonderful choice for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or just a cozy evening at home, this cake will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why make this recipe?
This chocolate loaf cake is super simple to whip up, with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The combination of the moist crumb, rich cocoa, and optional chocolate toppings will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the soaking sauce ensures that every slice is unbelievably tender! 🍫✨
How to prepare Ultra-Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake
Ingredients:
- 120ml (1⁄2 cup) neutral oil (🌻 sunflower or canola)
- 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar (🍬)
- 2 large eggs (🥚)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (🌿)
- 180ml (3⁄4 cup) milk (🥛)
- 160g (1 1⁄4 cups) all-purpose flour (🍞)
- 50g (1⁄2 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder (🍫)
- 1 1⁄2 tsp baking powder (🍞)
- 1⁄4 tsp salt (🧂)
- 60ml (1⁄4 cup) hot water or brewed coffee (☕️)
- For the soaking sauce:
- 120ml (1⁄2 cup) milk (🥛)
- 100g (1⁄2 cup) sugar (🍬)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder (🍫)
- 40g (about 3 tbsp) butter (🥛)
- Optional:
- 50g dark chocolate (🍫)
- Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (🍫)
- Grated chocolate or cocoa powder (🍫)
- Crushed nuts (hazelnuts or walnuts) (🌰)
- Fresh berries or whipped cream (🍓🍦)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix the oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. 🍬
- Gradually add the milk, stirring until smooth. 🥛
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. 🍞🍫
- Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing!
- Finally, add the hot water or brewed coffee and mix until smooth. ☕️
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the soaking sauce by combining milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and sugar dissolves, then bring it to a simmer. Remove from heat.
- Once the cake is done, let it cool for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. While it’s still warm, poke holes all over the top and pour the soaking sauce over the cake slowly. Let it absorb the liquid.
- If desired, melt dark chocolate and pour it over the cake for an extra layer of decadence. 🍫
How to serve Ultra-Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake
This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of ice cream. You can sprinkle grated chocolate or crushed nuts on top for a beautiful presentation! 🍦🍓
How to store Ultra-Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for about a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well! ❄️
Tips for preparing Ultra-Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake
- Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother mix.
- Be sure to let the soaking sauce cool slightly before pouring it on.
Variations
Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips, nuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter. For a twist, consider using flavored extracts or incorporating orange or mint zest for a refreshing change. 🍊🌱
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. The cake may be denser, so keep that in mind!
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly!
3. What can I use instead of eggs?
For an egg substitute, you can use flaxseed meal or applesauce. Typically, 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water works well for replacing one egg.
Enjoy baking this delightful Ultra-Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake! 🍰