chocolate loaf cake Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from a dear friend, this chocolate loaf cake fits the bill perfectly. Rich, moist, and infused with a subtle hint of coffee that elevates the deep chocolate flavor, this cake is a slice of heaven in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon treat or a special occasion, this chocolate loaf cake strikes the perfect balance of comfort and elegance to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each contributing a special element to create the ultimate chocolate loaf cake experience. From the cocoa’s rich depth to the coffee’s subtle enhancement, every component plays a vital role in flavor, texture, and that irresistible aroma.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping with moisture and structure.
- Instant coffee: A secret ingredient that enhances the chocolate flavor without adding bitterness.
- Eggs and egg yolk: Provide structure, richness, and a tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that balances the chocolate intensity.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation for the cake’s soft yet sturdy texture.
- Cocoa powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and dark color.
- Baking powder: Gives the cake lift and lightness for that perfect crumb.
- Butter (for frosting): Adds creaminess and flavor in the luscious coffee frosting.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Creates a silky frosting with a hint of sweetness and depth.
- Hot water (for frosting): Activates the instant coffee for the frosting’s bold flavor.
How to Make chocolate loaf cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 355°F and lining an 8×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. This simple start ensures your cake won’t stick, making cleanup easier and keeping the shape perfect as it bakes.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Coffee
Using a stand mixer, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and instant coffee together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This can take 3 to 5 minutes—patience here brings out a lightness that your chocolate loaf cake will thank you for later.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the vanilla, then one egg at a time, including the extra egg yolk, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This step helps the batter come together beautifully, resulting in a smooth, glossy texture.
Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Lower your mixer speed and add the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Mix just until everything is combined and no dry pockets remain. Overmixing here can toughen the batter, so keep it gentle to preserve softness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen is a delicious sign the chocolate loaf cake is almost ready!
Step 6: Cool Before Frosting
Let your cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Applying frosting to a warm cake can melt it down, so this cooling phase is key for the best results.
Step 7: Prepare the Coffee Frosting
Mix instant coffee with hot water and set it aside to cool. Then whip the butter until fluffy, add cold sweetened condensed milk, and continue whipping. Stir in the cooled coffee mixture and whip once more. This frosting is irresistibly silky, marrying coffee and chocolate into a dreamy finish for your loaf.
Step 8: Frost and Decorate
Spread the coffee frosting over the cooled cake using a spoon to create charming swoops and swirls. Finish by sprinkling cacao nibs or chocolate sprinkles for texture and an extra chocolate kick.
How to Serve chocolate loaf cake
Garnishes
Top your chocolate loaf cake with cacao nibs, mini chocolate chips, or even a dusting of cocoa powder for a rustic touch. Fresh berries also brighten the plate and complement the rich flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream pairs incredibly well with this cake. For a cozy touch, serve alongside a warm mug of espresso or creamy latte to echo the coffee notes in the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the cake into thick pieces and arrange on a platter with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for an elegant dessert presentation. Alternatively, turn slices into decadent ice cream sandwiches or serve alongside whipped cream and fruit compote for a café-style treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover slices of chocolate loaf cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps retain moisture and keeps the cake perfectly soft.
Freezing
Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place inside a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving, then refresh with a quick spread of frosting if needed.
Reheating
To warm leftover cake, microwave slices for 10 to 15 seconds or heat briefly in a toaster oven. This revives the moistness and enhances the flavors, especially when paired with a cozy cup of coffee.
FAQs
Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?
Instant coffee is preferred because it dissolves quickly and won’t affect the texture of the batter or frosting. Brewed coffee might add extra moisture and alter the consistency.
Is there a way to make this cake dairy-free?
You can substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut condensed milk to keep the frosting creamy while accommodating dairy-free diets.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the cake’s structure.
How do I know when the chocolate loaf cake is done baking?
The best way is to insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips can add delightful texture and bursts of flavor. Just fold them in gently after mixing the dry ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This chocolate loaf cake has quickly become one of my all-time favorites to bake and share. Its perfect balance of chocolate richness and coffee undertones, combined with a luscious coffee frosting, makes it a crowd-pleaser every single time. I encourage you to try this recipe and treat yourself to a little slice of heaven—you absolutely deserve it!
Printchocolate loaf cake Recipe
This rich and moist chocolate loaf cake is infused with a hint of coffee for a delightful depth of flavor. Topped with a luscious coffee buttercream frosting, it makes the perfect indulgent treat for any occasion or a comforting afternoon snack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Loaf Cake
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp instant coffee
- 3 eggs, at room temperature
- 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
For the Coffee Frosting
- 1 stick butter, at room temperature
- 4 oz sweetened condensed milk, cold
- 1 1/2 tsp instant coffee
- 1/2 tsp hot water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C) and line an 8×4 inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Cream Butter, Sugar, and Coffee: In a stand mixer, cream together the butter, sugar, and instant coffee until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures a light texture and well incorporated coffee flavor.
- Add Vanilla and Eggs: Add the vanilla extract, then incorporate the eggs and the extra egg yolk one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain a smooth, homogeneous batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder to avoid lumps and ensure even distribution.
- Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and fold gently with the mixer on low speed until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven, allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Coffee Frosting: Dissolve 1 1/2 tsp instant coffee in 1/2 tsp hot water and set aside to cool. Using the whisk attachment of your mixer, whip the softened butter until it turns a light color and becomes fluffy.
- Incorporate Sweetened Condensed Milk and Coffee Mixture: Add the cold sweetened condensed milk to the whipped butter and mix for 1-2 minutes until fully combined. Then add the cooled coffee mixture and whip once more to achieve a creamy frosting.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the coffee frosting evenly over the completely cooled chocolate loaf cake. Use a spoon to create C-shaped patterns on the frosting for a decorative finish. Optionally sprinkle cacao nibs or chocolate sprinkles on top to enhance texture and appearance.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve this decadent coffee-infused chocolate loaf cake as a delightful dessert or coffee-time treat.
Notes
- Ensure all eggs and butter are at room temperature to help achieve a smooth batter and better rise during baking.
- If you prefer a more intense coffee flavor, you can increase the instant coffee slightly, but be cautious as it might affect the texture.
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend.
- To make the frosting easier to spread, ensure the cake is completely cooled to prevent melting.
- Decorate with cacao nibs or chocolate shavings for added texture and a sophisticated look.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 80g)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: chocolate loaf cake, coffee chocolate cake, coffee frosting, easy chocolate cake, loaf cake recipe, moist chocolate cake
