Chocolate Loaf Cake With Simple Glaze

Name: Chocolate Loaf Cake With Simple Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Desserts

I absolutely love this Chocolate Loaf Cake with Simple Glaze! The rich, moist chocolate cake comes together effortlessly, and the glaze adds a touch of sweetness that takes it to the next level. Whenever I bake this treat, my kitchen fills with the delightful scent of chocolate, making it impossible to resist. It’s perfect for a cozy family gathering or simply as a special treat to indulge in. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, this cake has become a staple in my home that my loved ones can’t get enough of.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:37:35.687Z

I remember the first time I made this Chocolate Loaf Cake. As I mixed the batter, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to put together. The combination of cocoa and chocolate makes for an indulgent flavor that never fails to impress. I also discovered that letting it cool completely before glazing ensures the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Another detail I learned was that the simple glaze, while optional, really elevates the cake. Using just powdered sugar and milk, it adds a charming finish without overpowering the chocolate. I often find myself doubling the glaze recipe just to have extra for drizzling!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with a silky glaze
Moist texture that lingers deliciously on the palate
Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up anytime
Perfectly portable for picnics or potlucks

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Loaf Cake plays a vital role in achieving that rich flavor and moist texture. The unsweetened cocoa powder is essential for the deep chocolatey taste, while the buttermilk provides acidity that tenderizes the crumb, giving it that delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute buttermilk with a mix of milk and lemon juice or vinegar, allowing the cake to maintain its moisture without compromising flavor.

Butter is another key player in this recipe. It's crucial to use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the cake. Softening the butter until it's just creamy ensures it incorporates well with the sugar, creating that light and airy texture. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you could try using a plant-based butter substitute and non-dairy milk; just remember that it might slightly alter the final flavor and moisture content.

Mastering the Baking Process

Baking is a science, and timing is everything. When you pour the batter into the loaf pan, it should be smooth and thick. Watch closely as it bakes; if you notice the top starting to crack, that’s a lovely indicator that it’s turning golden brown and will yield a delightful crust. Ensure your toothpick comes out clean to confirm it’s fully cooked; an underbaked cake might collapse while cooling. If you've got a convection oven, consider lowering the temperature by about 25°F for even baking.

Cooling the cake properly is crucial, as it allows the structure to set, preventing it from crumbling when you slice it. Letting it rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack allows steam to escape, preventing a soggy bottom. Be patient; it's tempting to glaze immediately, but waiting until the cake is thoroughly cool ensures the glaze doesn’t melt away—creating that perfect shiny finish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create the perfect Chocolate Loaf Cake:

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Chocolate Loaf Cake:

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Blend Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Prepare Glaze

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. In the meantime, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to form the glaze.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let it set for a few minutes before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Loaf Cake with a cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add chocolate chips to the batter or top with sprinkles for a festive look.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Loaf Cake is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. For a cozy evening, I recommend pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich chocolate flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt on the glaze can elevate the sweet notes and provide a delightful contrast that your guests will love.

If you're planning to take it to a gathering, consider slicing the loaf into thick pieces and arranging them on a platter with fresh berries. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also provides a refreshing counterpart to the cake's richness.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Storing leftovers properly can extend the life of your Chocolate Loaf Cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just slice the cake first, sandwiching parchment paper between the slices to prevent sticking, and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

To enjoy the frozen cake, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. If you want to warm it up slightly before serving, pop it in a microwave for a few seconds or reheating it in the oven at a low temperature. This refreshes the cake's texture, making it taste freshly baked!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate cocoa powder?

Yes, dark chocolate cocoa powder can give a richer flavor to the cake.

→ How should I store the chocolate loaf cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Certainly! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with the cake?

It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries for added texture.