Name: Chocolate Ganache Loaf Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (50 g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil; 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar; 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 3/4 cup (180 ml) milk or buttermilk; 1/2 cup (120 ml) hot water or hot coffee; 1 cup (180 g) dark chocolate, chopped or chocolate chips; 1/2 cup (120 ml) whipping cream; Chocolate chunks or chocolate chips for topping

This Chocolate Ganache Loaf Cake is rich, moist, and deeply chocolatey. I love how the tender loaf pairs with a silky ganache topping, making it perfect for an indulgent dessert, afternoon treat, or special occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

½ cup (50 g) unsweetened cocoa powder

1½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

¼ tsp salt

½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened

¼ cup (60 ml) vegetable oil

1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar

2 large eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

¾ cup (180 ml) milk or buttermilk

½ cup (120 ml) hot water or hot coffee

1 cup (180 g) dark chocolate, chopped or chips

½ cup (120 ml) whipping cream

Chocolate chunks or chocolate chips

Directions

I preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a loaf pan.

I whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.

In another bowl, I beat the butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

I add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then I stir in the vanilla extract.

I gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Then I stir in the hot water or hot coffee until the batter is smooth.

I 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.

I let the cake cool completely in the pan before removing it.

For the ganache, I heat the cream until just simmering, then pour it over the chopped chocolate.

I let it sit for one minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Next I pour the ganache over the cooled loaf cake and spread it evenly.

I top it with chocolate chunks or chocolate chips, then let the ganache set before slicing.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 80 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Variations

I like using hot coffee instead of hot water when I want a deeper chocolate flavor.

Also I can swap milk for buttermilk for a slightly tangier, softer crumb.

I sometimes add chocolate chips to the batter for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

I let chilled slices come to room temperature before serving. For a softer texture, I warm a slice briefly in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use coffee instead of hot water?

Yes, I like using hot coffee because it makes the chocolate flavor taste richer without making the cake taste strongly like coffee.

Can I make this cake without ganache?

Yes, I can serve the loaf plain or dust it with powdered sugar, but the ganache adds a richer finish.

Can I use milk chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, but I prefer dark chocolate because it balances the sweetness of the cake.

How do I know when the loaf cake is done?

I check the center with a toothpick. When it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, I freeze the loaf without the ganache for best results. I wrap it well and freeze it for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Ganache Loaf Cake is a rich, moist, and satisfying dessert that I love making when I want something simple but impressive. The soft chocolate crumb and smooth ganache topping make every slice feel indulgent and homemade.

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