Decadent Chocolate Pound Cake

Few desserts can compete with the classic indulgence of a chocolate pound cake. Rich, moist, and bursting with deep chocolate flavor, this cake is perfect for every occasion—be it a family gathering, a cozy evening treat, or a show-stopping centerpiece for your dessert table. In this recipe, we combine the lusciousness of Dutch-process cocoa, the robust notes of coffee, and the creaminess of butter to create a pound cake that is both decadent and satisfying. To top it off, a smooth chocolate glaze adds an extra layer of luxury. Let’s dive into the journey of making this chocolate masterpiece.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes to 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 8–10 slices

Ingredients:

Cake:

• 1/3 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder
• 1/3 cup hot coffee
• 1¾ cups cake flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 3/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Glaze:

• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder
• Pinch of salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2–4 tablespoons milk or water

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Cocoa Mixture In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and hot coffee until the cocoa dissolves completely. This step enhances the depth of the chocolate flavor.

Step 3: Sift the Dry Ingredients In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to elevate the aroma and flavor of the batter.

Step 6: Combine Cocoa Mixture Slowly add the prepared cocoa-coffee mixture to the batter, mixing until well combined. The batter will appear silky and smooth at this stage.

Step 7: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk Alternate between adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.

Step 8: Fold in Chocolate Chips Gently fold the dark chocolate chips into the batter using a spatula. This step ensures an even distribution of chocolate throughout the cake.

Step 9: Bake the Cake Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 minutes to 1 hour, 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.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze While the cake cools, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, sift together the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Add a pinch of salt and stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add milk or water, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a pourable consistency.

Step 11: Glaze the Cake Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides. Allow the glaze to set for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

This decadent chocolate pound cake is a celebration of flavor and texture. The harmonious blend of rich chocolate, creamy butter, and the subtle hint of coffee creates a dessert that is irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee or serving it to guests, this cake is bound to leave a lasting impression. Try it today, and savor the joy of homemade decadence!