Our #1 Chocolate Recipe of All Time

Don't loaf around—make it today!

By
Sara Haas
Sara Haas
Sara Haas RDN, LDN, is a food and nutrition expert with formal training in the culinary arts. She works as a freelance writer, recipe developer, media authority, public speaker, and consultant dietitian/chef. Sara has over 20 years of experience as a registered and licensed dietitian. She has also been a professional chef for 15 years and a food photographer for 10 years.
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Published on 02/8/24
An overhead photo of ingredients for a chocolate loaf cake: sugar, 3 eggs, cocoa powder, baking powder, butter, flour, salt, vanilla, milk

The Spruce Eats / Cara Cormack

Chocolate cake can be really good or it can be just “okay.” I believe you should never settle for just “okay” chocolate cake, and it seems like you agree. With over 180 reviews and too many clicks to count, you’ve made this delicious Chocolate Loaf Cake recipe the most popular chocolate recipe of all time on our site. Here’s why we agree that it’s as good as you think it is.

Keep It Simple, Sweetie

My unscientific research has led me to believe that most people don’t like to bake because they find it cumbersome. The idea of measuring, mixing and waiting just isn’t their idea of fun. I get that and I think it’s one of the reasons you like this cake as much as you do. It’s simple, both in regards to ingredients and tools as well as instructions. The ingredients (flour, sugar, etc.) are familiar pantry staples, the tools needed (bowls, hand mixer, etc.) are standard, and the easy-to-follow steps instill confidence. What’s not to love about that?

A close-up photo of a partially sliced chocolate loaf cake with chocolate glaze running down the sides

The Spruce Eats / Cara Cormack

Dress It Up or Keep It Classic

While the recipe calls for making a glaze, the cake is still lovely without it. Readers report that the cake is also delicious with a vanilla glaze. Even a store-bought fudge topping is a good option if time is tight. I personally skip the glaze and, instead, include mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and even toasted shredded coconut to the batter before baking. Consider adding a middle layer of crumbled chocolate cookies or dollops of peanut butter for a fun twist. Or serve as-is topped with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

A Few Tips for Awesome Results

If you have a moment, read the text above the recipe which includes tips and tricks for ultimate success. For example, if possible, bring the eggs and milk to room temperature before using. This ensures a perfect emulsion needed to create a delicious, velvety cake. Another tip is to weigh the flour (1 1/4 cups is 150 grams) or at least use a spoon to add flour to your measuring cup since too much flour will make your cake dry, heavy, and crumbly. Finally, use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven’s temperature is accurate for baking. A too-hot or too-cold oven has negative implications for your final product.

Looking for more chocolate? Check out our One-Bowl Chocolate Cake recipe or this recipe for Easy Chocolate Delight!