Ultra-Moist Chocolate Loaf Cake
This easy and delicious chocolate loaf cake stays moist for days thanks to a rich chocolate soaking sauce. Perfect for chocolate lovers and beginner bakers alike!
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 120 ml neutral oil (sunflower or canola)
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 180 ml milk
- 160 g all-purpose flour
- 50 g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 tsp baking powder
- 0.25 tsp salt
- 60 ml hot water or brewed coffee Enhances chocolate flavor
Chocolate Soaking Sauce
- 120 ml milk
- 100 g sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 40 g butter
- 50 g dark chocolate Optional for extra richness
Toppings (Optional)
- Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- Grated chocolate or cocoa powder for garnish
- Crushed nuts (hazelnuts or walnuts)
- Fresh berries or whipped cream
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan with parchment.
- In a large bowl, whisk together oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir until just combined.
- Add hot water or coffee and mix until smooth. The batter will be runny — that's good!
- Pour into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then poke small holes in the top with a skewer or fork.
Making the Soaking Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cocoa powder, and butter. Heat over medium, stirring, until it just starts to bubble and everything is melted and smooth.
- Optional: Stir in chopped dark chocolate for extra richness.
Final Assembly
- While the cake is still slightly warm, pour the chocolate sauce slowly over the top. Let it soak in — the cake will absorb the sauce and become deliciously moist and glossy.
- Let the cake cool fully in the pan, then transfer to a plate or serving tray.
- Top with chocolate shavings, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of extra ganache.
- Slice and serve on its own, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.
Notes
Serve slices warm or at room temperature. For added flavor, pair with vanilla ice cream or fresh berries. Store the loaf in plastic wrap or an airtight container, at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for 5–6 days.