Chocolate Loaf Cake With Simple Glaze

Name: Chocolate Loaf Cake With Simple Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Indulgent Oven Treats

I absolutely love baking this Chocolate Loaf Cake with Simple Glaze. It never fails to impress! The aroma of rich chocolate fills the kitchen, wrapping me in its comforting embrace. What makes this cake special is the simple yet luscious glaze that adds a beautiful shine and an extra hint of sweetness. It's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a quiet afternoon treat or a festive gathering. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll be hooked on its moist texture and deep, chocolatey flavor.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-01T20:45:38.044Z

When I first attempted this Chocolate Loaf Cake, I knew I wanted a balance of deep chocolate flavor and a perfect crumb. The secret was to use high-quality cocoa powder and not to over-mix the batter. This ensures that the cake rises beautifully and has that sought-after melt-in-your-mouth quality. I also love how the simple glaze on top adds that finishing touch without being overly fussy.

As I perfected my recipe, I discovered that letting the cake rest for a few minutes before slicing helps enhance the flavors. Each bite reveals a moist, decadent crumb that's simply irresistible. Whether it's served warm or at room temperature, this cake is sure to delight anyone who tries it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Indulgent chocolate cake that's incredibly moist
Simple glaze adds the perfect finishing touch
Easy to prepare, making it great for any home baker

Mastering the Baking Process

Getting the baking process right is crucial when making the Chocolate Loaf Cake. Pay close attention to the mixing method—over-mixing can lead to a dense texture. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined, and you can still see a few flour streaks. Properly preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is also essential; an oven that's too hot may cause the cake to rise too quickly and crack.

Baking times can vary slightly, so keep an eye on your cake as it nears the 50-minute mark. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, but if you notice moist crumbs, give it another 5 minutes and check again. You’re looking for a springy top that slightly bounces back when touched—this indicates that it’s perfectly baked.

Understanding Ingredients

Every ingredient in the Chocolate Loaf Cake has a role to play. The buttermilk contributes moisture and acidity, which helps tenderize the flour and create a soft crumb. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.

The balance of granulated and brown sugars not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the cake's moist texture. Granulated sugar helps the cake rise, while brown sugar introduces a hint of caramel flavor, enhancing the overall richness. If needed, you can replace brown sugar with an equal amount of coconut sugar for a slightly different taste.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Simple Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan to prepare for baking.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Prepare Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze.

Glaze the Cake

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

Pro Tips

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. If you prefer a richer glaze, you can add more cocoa powder to it for a chocolate version.

Storing and Freezing

This Chocolate Loaf Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days when covered to maintain its moisture. If you want to extend its lifespan, refrigerate it in an airtight container, where it will last for up to a week. Make sure to let it cool completely after baking to prevent excess moisture from accumulating in the container.

For longer storage, consider freezing the loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy later, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it slightly in the oven before serving to regain some of its freshly baked texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Loaf Cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Adding fresh berries on the side can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor, making for a stunning presentation.

For a more decadent treat, top each slice of cake with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of sea salt. This not only enhances its visual appeal but also introduces an exciting flavor contrast that enhances your chocolate indulgence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can use coconut sugar or another sweetener, but it might slightly alter the flavor and texture.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and it will last up to three months in the freezer.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake is delicious on its own, but pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries.