Indulge in the rich, moist, and decadent flavors of this chocolate cake baked perfectly in a bread pan. This simple yet elegant dessert is ideal for any occasion, whether served with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed with a cup of coffee. The rectangular shape gives it a rustic charm while ensuring even baking.
Preparation time ⏰:
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of Portions 🍽:
Serves 8
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups)
- Cocoa powder (1/2 cup, unsweetened)
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon)
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
- Granulated sugar (1 cup)
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted)
- Eggs (2 large)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- Buttermilk (1 cup)
- Hot water (1/2 cup, optional, for enhanced moisture)
For Optional cake Glaze or Frosting:
- Dark chocolate (1/2 cup, chopped)
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup)
For Garnish:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh berries (e.g., raspberries or strawberries, optional)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on portion sizes and specific brands of ingredients used.
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a bread pan tray (9×5 inches) with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in the buttermilk until well combined.
Combine and Add Hot Water:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- If desired, stir in the hot water to achieve a smoother batter. The batter will be thin, but this ensures a moist structure.
Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan tray, smoothing the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Optional cake Glaze or Frosting :
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until steaming, but not boiling.
- Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Pour the glaze over the cooled cake or serve it on the side.
Garnish and Serve cake:
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar or decorate with fresh berries for a pop of color.
- Slice and serve with your choice of accompaniment.
Serving Tip 💡:
This chocolate cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. For a luxurious touch, sprinkle the cake with chocolate shavings or drizzle with caramel sauce.