If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to satisfy a deep chocolate craving, this Chocolate Chip Loaf Cake is it. With a tender cocoa-infused crumb, studded with melty chocolate chips and finished with a smooth ganache drizzle, this loaf is the ultimate treat for any chocolate lover.
It’s perfect for a cozy weekend bake, gifting to friends, or serving at brunch when you want something a little extra indulgent.
Why I Love This Recipe
This loaf cake hits the sweet spot—literally. It’s not as heavy as a full frosted cake but delivers just as much chocolatey satisfaction. The buttermilk keeps the texture ultra-moist, and the ganache topping adds a decadent, bakery-worthy finish without requiring piping bags or fancy skills.
It’s also versatile enough to dress up or down. Serve slices as-is, toast and butter them lightly, or even top with whipped cream for a full dessert presentation.
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
Dry Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ¾ tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup canola oil
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
Mix-ins and Topping:
- ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips, divided
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream (for ganache)
🛠️ Substitutions & Notes
- Buttermilk: You can make a quick substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.
- Oil: Any neutral oil works—vegetable or sunflower oil are fine substitutes.
- Chocolate chips: Dark, milk, or mini chips all work. Just keep ½ cup for the batter and ¼ cup for the ganache.
- Gluten-free? Try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
👨🍳 How to Make Chocolate Chip Loaf Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line with parchment for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well-combined. Gently fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips.
Step 3: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Tap gently on the counter to level the surface.
Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
🍫 Make the Ganache
Place the remaining ¼ cup chocolate chips in a bowl. In a small saucepan, heat ¼ cup heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate and let sit for 2–3 minutes.
Stir until smooth and glossy, then pour over the cooled loaf. Let it set before slicing.
🌟 Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the batter—mix until just combined for the softest texture.
- Check early: All ovens vary; start checking at 50 minutes.
- Cool before glazing to prevent the ganache from sliding off.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This loaf is fantastic:
- With coffee or espresso for an afternoon treat
- Toasted with a pat of butter for a decadent breakfast
- Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Create a chocolate lover’s spread with:
- These Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites
- The Best Peanut Butter Brownies
- This Edible Cookie Dough
- This Brownie Batter Dip
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies
🧊 Storage Tips
- Room Temp: Wrap in foil or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days, especially with ganache topping.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Loaf Cake is rich, satisfying, and the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. With its simple steps and crowd-pleasing flavor, it’s a must-have in every home baker’s rotation.
Did you try it? Share your slice and tag @chefmaniac—I’d love to see your chocolatey creations! And don’t forget to subscribe for more cozy bakes, loaf cake recipes, and easy indulgent desserts.
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