Chocolate lovers rejoice! If you’re a fan of rich, moist, and fudgy brownies but crave the structure of a loaf cake, then this Chocolate Brownie Loaf Cake is your perfect indulgence. Combining the best elements of a brownie and a loaf cake, this treat offers a dense, chocolatey experience that will satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Here’s how you can create this decadent dessert, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
To make this luscious Chocolate Brownie Loaf Cake, you will need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolatey goodness)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Loaf Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for ensuring a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Blend the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake.
- Add the Chocolate Chips: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, if using, for an extra chocolatey kick. This step is optional but highly recommended for chocolate enthusiasts.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter). The exact baking time can vary, so keep an eye on your cake after the 50-minute mark.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, lift the cake out of the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve.
Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Brownie Loaf Cake
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for the best flavor. The quality of your chocolate will greatly impact the richness of your cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
- Watch the Baking Time: All ovens are different, so start checking your cake at around 50 minutes. The toothpick test is a reliable method to ensure your cake is done without overbaking.
- Serving Suggestions: This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
Conclusion
The Chocolate Brownie Loaf Cake is a delightful fusion of a classic brownie and a moist loaf cake. Its rich chocolate flavor and dense, fudgy texture make it an irresistible treat for any chocolate lover. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to indulge in a chocolatey delight, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy this decadent cake with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a perfect pairing.