Irresistibly Decadent Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe
Are you a chocolate lover? Do you enjoy the rich, decadent flavour of a perfectly moist chocolate cake? If so, I have just the recipe for you!
Introducing my beloved Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe, guaranteed to please even the most discerning palates. While chocolate cakes may be a dime a dozen, this recipe takes things to the next level.
First, let’s talk about its pound cake base – dense and buttery with a perfect crumb, and made with the finest quality ingredients. Then, we infuse it with rich cocoa powder and premium chocolate chips to create a truly indulgent treat that will melt in your mouth with every bite.
This is the kind of cake that you sneak bits of when no one is watching or crave for breakfast (or at midnight!). Whether you are baking for a special occasion or spoiling yourself with an afternoon treat, this Chocolate Pound Cake will not disappoint.
So let’s get started on this delightful journey – follow me as I walk you through each step to achieve bakery-quality results in the comfort of your own home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you why you’re going to absolutely love this Chocolate Pound Cake recipe. Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent, moist cake bursting with rich chocolate flavor that will have you swooning with delight. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but it is also incredibly easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients.
What sets this classic Chocolate Pound Cake apart is its buttery, tender crumb and the intense cocoa flavor in every bite. It’s the perfect balance between a satisfying dessert and an indulgent treat for special occasions. Served up simply on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream, you won’t be able to resist a second slice.
One of the best things about this cake is its versatility. It makes for an impressive centerpiece on any dessert table and can be paired with just about anything from fresh berries to ice cream or hot fudge sauce. This cake is perfect for those who love simple, yet indulgent recipes that are easy to adapt.
If you’re still not convinced about why you’ll love this recipe, then just take a look at the photo step by step guide or recipe video and see how effortless it is to make this recipe from scratch. Trust me; once you’ve made it once, it’ll become a staple in your house!
Ingredient List
Let me give you a rundown of the key ingredients you will need for this decadent moist chocolate pound cake recipe. Please make sure to have these on hand before you start baking:
– 1 cup or 2 sticks unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
– 3 cups granulated sugar
– 6 large eggs
– 3 cups cake flour, sifted
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (dutch processed preferred)
– 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– Optional: Chocolate chips for added richness and flavor.
These recipe ingredients are easy to find and probably already in your pantry. If not, they can be easily sourced from your local grocery store.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have gathered all the ingredients and equipment, it’s time to bring them together and create a masterpiece. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the perfect Chocolate Pound Cake.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a 10-cup (2.5 liter) bundt pan with vegetable shortening or butter being careful not to miss any corners.
Make the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup (75 grams) of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup hot water, and 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) whole milk until you get a smooth consistency without lumps.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl using an electric mixer on high speed, cream together 2 cups (4 sticks or 454 grams) of unsalted butter softened at room temperature and 3 cups (600 grams) of granulated sugar for about 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another separate bowl, combine dry ingredients including:
- 3 cups (360 grams) cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Use a whisk to mix them thoroughly.
Add Eggs One at a Time
Add 6 large eggs into the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl after each egg addition.
Add Vanilla Extract
Add in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract into the wet mixture and beat for another minute.
Add Flour Mixture
Gradually add in the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture in three additions while alternating with adding chocolate mixture in two additions. Beat on low speed until fully combined.
Bake The Cake
Pour the chocolate pound cake batter into the prepared bundt pan and spread it evenly. Smooth out any air pockets with a spatula. Put it in the oven and bake for about 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Remove from oven and allow the cake resting in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Your chocolate pound cake is now ready to serve!
Substitutions and Variations
Now, if you’re one of those cooks who loves to experiment in the kitchen, this section is for you. The beauty of this chocolate pound cake recipe is that it’s versatile, and you can easily switch out certain ingredients for others or add your own touch to the recipe.
First off, let’s talk about the flour. If you don’t have cake flour on hand, don’t worry. You can use all-purpose flour instead, but just know that it may result in a slightly denser cake. To make up for this, consider adding an extra tablespoon or two of milk to the batter to ensure a moist crumb.
Additionally, if you’re looking to reduce the fat in the recipe without sacrificing flavor, try swapping out some of the butter or shortening for mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce instead. Not only will this add natural sweetness and moisture to your cake, but it’s also a healthier alternative.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make a fudge ripple effect within your cake mix, add a cup of chocolate chips into the batter before pouring it into the baking pan. Alternatively, if you want to give your pound cake an extra chocolatey kick, replace one cup of flour with cocoa powder.
Another great way to elevate this classic chocolate pound cake is by adding a touch of sour cream or cream cheese to the batter. Doing so will give your cake a tangy flavor and create a decadent, moist texture that’s sure to impress your guests.
Finally, if you prefer mini desserts over full-size cakes or simply want something fun and bite-sized to serve at your next gathering, consider baking this recipe as mini bundt cakes instead of one large bundt cake. This way, everyone gets their own personal portion of this indulgent treat.
The possibilities are endless with this chocolate pound cake recipe. So go ahead, have fun experimenting with different substitutions and variations until you find that perfect combination that suits your palette. Happy baking!
Serving and Pairing
Now that we have a delicious chocolate pound cake ready to be served, the question arises: what should we pair it with?
This decadent and moist chocolate bundt cake is versatile and pairs well with many different flavors. For a classic pairing choice, I recommend serving this chocolate pound cake alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea. The bitterness of the brew will counterbalance the richness of the chocolate and create a delightful balance on your palate.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving a slice of chocolate pound cake with vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or whipped cream. The tartness and sweetness of these ingredients will perfectly complement the fudgy and chocolaty flavors in the cake.
For a mini indulgence, try cutting the cake into small squares and serve them as finger foods at your next gathering. The bite-sized treats will have your guests coming back for seconds and thirds.
Alternatively, you can top off each slice with fudge or chocolate chips for an extra indulgence that takes this already gratifying dessert to another level.
Regardless of how you choose to serve it, there’s no denying that this recipe is one of the best chocolate pound cake recipes you’ll ever experience. The perfect balance between sweetness and richness makes it ideal for any occasion; from family gatherings to formal dinners, this cake easily stands out amidst other desserts.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Let’s face it, sometimes we don’t have the luxury of time to bake a chocolate pound cake from scratch. However, you can still enjoy a delicious slice of cake by planning ahead and making this recipe in advance. The make-ahead option is a great way to save time while still enjoying the decadent and moist chocolate bundt cake.
To make-ahead, simply bake the cake according to the recipe instructions and let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh, and store in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to serve, allow the frozen cake to thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
When reheating, I recommend slicing the cake into individual portions and warming them up in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until it reaches your desired temperature. You can also reheat a larger slice in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, just be careful not to overbake it.
Storing your chocolate pound cake correctly is crucial for its longevity. If stored properly, it can last up to five days on your kitchen counter, stored in an airtight container or wrapped with plastic wrap. Do not let it sit out too long or expose it to direct sunlight as this will cause it to dry out quickly.
In conclusion, this recipe yields a deliciously moist and decadent chocolate pound cake that can be made ahead of time, stored and reheated with ease. You won’t have to worry about disappointing your guests or family with stale or dry cake again!
Tips for Perfect Results
One of the keys to a successful chocolate pound cake is starting with room temperature ingredients. Take the butter and eggs out of the fridge at least an hour before you begin baking. Room temperature butter will cream better with sugar, while warm eggs will help create a lighter texture in the cake.
It’s also essential to measure your ingredients accurately, especially the flour. Use a scale if possible, as measuring cups can lead to inconsistencies in the amount of flour used. Be sure to spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife for precise measurements.
Another tip for perfect results is not over-mixing the batter. Mix on low speed and just until all ingredients are combined, then stop. Overmixing can develop gluten and toughen up the cake.
Don’t be afraid to play around with different types of cocoa powder either. Dutch-processed cocoa gives a richer flavor, while old-fashioned cocoa adds a more classic chocolate taste.
To ensure even baking, place your bundt pan in the center of the oven and rotate it halfway through baking. If your oven has hot spots, place a baking sheet on the rack below your cake pan.
Finally, let your cake cool completely before removing it from the pan. This ensures that it will release cleanly and keep its shape. Once removed, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into it.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a decadent moist chocolate pound cake that is sure to impress any dessert lover.
FAQ
As someone who loves making delicious cakes for my loved ones, I understand that sometimes things don’t go as planned. That’s why I’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions with answers to help you troubleshoot any issues you might face when making this decadent Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe. Don’t worry – I’ve got your back!
What’s the difference between bundt cake and pound cake?
When it comes to cakes, there’s often confusion about the difference between a pound cake and a bundt cake. While any cake can be made in a bundt pan, a pound cake is unique in that it’s traditionally dense and made with equal parts butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, resulting in a rich and decadent cake.
What makes a pound cake different from a regular cake?
The Pound Cake is known for its dense texture, which sets it apart from the American-style butter cake. Due to its richness, it typically has subtle flavors and is commonly served plain or with a simple glaze. It is usually baked in a loaf or a Bundt pan.
Why is pound cake so dry?
When the texture of the cake is dry, it might be because it was baked for too long. Alternatively, the dryness could be caused by an imbalance in the ingredients, such as too much flour or too little butter and sugar. To remedy this issue, an effective approach would be to try reducing the temperature of the oven or taking the cake out earlier than expected.
What is Elvis Presley pound cake?
The Sterns acquired a pound cake recipe that held sentimental value for Elvis Presley. This recipe was gifted to them by Elvis’ childhood friend, Janelle McComb, and was traditionally baked by her every Christmas as a gift to Elvis. The Sterns received this recipe on the 10th anniversary of Elvis’ death in 1987.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this recipe for a decadent chocolate pound cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests. With its rich chocolate flavor and moist texture, this cake is a true winner.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers fantastic results every time. And with the option to customize it with your favorite toppings or serve it alongside your favorite coffee or tea, the possibilities are endless.
So what are you waiting for? Gather up the ingredients and get to baking! I promise you won’t regret it. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family so they can enjoy the taste of delicious homemade chocolate pound cake too.
Chocolate Pound Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb butter
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 3 cups sugar
- 5 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 3 cups cake flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cocoa
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat over to 325 degrees.
- Cream together butter, shortening, and vanilla.
- Add sugar and eggs to the mixture.
- Sift dry ingredients together and add to creamed mixture alternately with milk.
- Pour into a greased and floured tube pan.
- Bake for 1 hour 20 minutes.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.