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Best Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe

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This Chocolate Pound Cake recipe is a must-try for any chocolate lover! Combining the perfect balance of rich cocoa flavor with a moist, buttery texture, this cake is a true indulgence. It’s easy to prepare, and the results are simply irresistible. The cake’s dense and moist crumb makes it the perfect base for frosting, fresh berries, or even served plain with a cup of coffee. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, family gathering, or just a treat to enjoy at home, this chocolate pound cake will surely satisfy your sweet cravings. Ready in just over an hour, it’s the ultimate dessert for any chocolate lover looking for a quick yet impressive dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs, at room temperature

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup sour cream, at room temperature

1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature

1/2 cup semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, melted (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

  2. Mix the dry ingredients:
    In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

  3. Cream the butter and sugar:
    In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

  4. Add the eggs:
    Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

  5. Incorporate the dry ingredients:
    Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture in three parts, alternating with the sour cream and milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

  6. Add the melted chocolate:
    Stir in the melted chocolate, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.

  7. Bake:
    Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

  8. Cool:
    Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Pound Cake:

  • Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for the best texture.

  • Don’t overmix: Once the dry ingredients are added, mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.

  • Sift the cocoa powder: This will ensure that the cocoa powder incorporates smoothly into the batter.

  • For extra moisture: If you’d like an even more moist cake, try adding an extra 1/4 cup of sour cream.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Pound Cake:

🍫 Pairings:

  1. Whipped Cream or Fresh Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream complements the dense, rich texture of chocolate pound cake, adding a creamy balance to each bite.

  2. Berries: Fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries are perfect for adding a burst of freshness and tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.

  3. Chocolate Ganache: For an extra chocolate indulgence, drizzle a rich chocolate ganache over the top. The smoothness and deep flavor of the ganache enhance the cake’s chocolatey goodness.

  4. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm, moist cake.

  5. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce can add a rich, buttery sweetness that complements the chocolate flavor of the pound cake.

  6. Coffee or Espresso: The deep, robust flavors of coffee or espresso are ideal companions for chocolate desserts. The slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the cake.

  7. Liquor Pairings: If you want to elevate your dessert, pair the cake with a glass of port, a rich red wine, or a dessert wine like muscat. The slight sweetness of these beverages enhances the chocolate flavor without overwhelming it.

🍽 Serving Suggestions:

  1. Simple and Elegant: For a quick and elegant presentation, slice the pound cake into thick, even pieces and serve on a cake stand, dusted with powdered sugar and a few fresh berries.

  2. Trifle Style: Layer slices of chocolate pound cake with whipped cream, chocolate pudding, and fresh berries in a clear trifle dish for a stunning, layered dessert. This makes an impressive option for dinner parties or gatherings.  Click for my Chocolate Trifle Recipe.

  3. Warm and Cozy: Serve the chocolate pound cake slightly warmed, with a side of hot chocolate or coffee for a comforting treat.

  4. Mini Cakes: For a fun twist, bake individual mini versions of the pound cake and serve with small portions of whipped cream, fruit, or ganache.

  5. As a Base for Other Desserts: Use the chocolate pound cake as the base for a layered dessert, topping it with mousse, frosting, or other decadent toppings to make it even more indulgent.

Treat yourself to a slice of this decadent Chocolate Pound Cake today! Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to delight. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and start baking! 💙

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice.

Nutrition

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