Easy Chocolate Bread Recipe (2024)

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Satisfy your chocolate cravings with this Easy Chocolate Bread Recipe. It's a decadent twist on classic pound cake. Packed with natural cocoa powder and chocolate chips, it's a delightful breakfast, snack, or dessert treat, perfect for any chocolate lover! Also known as chocolate loaf cake, it's a quick and delicious way to enjoy rich, chocolaty goodness.

Easy Chocolate Bread Recipe (1)
Jump to:
  • Why Make A Loaf Of Chocolate Bread?
  • Ingredients You’ll Need
  • How To Make Chocolate Loaf Cake
  • Baking Tips
  • Variations
  • FAQ
  • More Chocolate Desserts
  • Chocolate Bread

This easy chocolate bread recipe takes the classic idea of pound cake dessert bread and infuses it with the decadence of real cocoa powder and an abundance of chocolate chips, resulting in a flavor-packed loaf that rivals banana bread, cinnamon chip bread, and pumpkin bread.

This recipe uses a combination of cocoa powder, flour, butter, buttermilk, and sour cream to create that perfect balance of flavors and moisture. Canola oil ensures a light and airy crumb, while vanilla extract adds a subtle hint of sweetness that complements the chocolate beautifully. A generous sprinkling of chocolate chips on top of the batter before baking adds a contrasting texture, with melty, gooey pockets of chocolate nestled within the bread and on top for a decadent chocolate crust.

Whether you're celebrating a holiday like Christmas or Thanksgiving or simply looking for a tasty snack or dessert, this chocolate bread fits the bill perfectly. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. Serve it as a dessert or a sweet breakfast option with a hot cup of coffee!

Why Make A Loaf Of Chocolate Bread?

  • It's a fun and rewarding recipe that allows you to experiment with real cocoa powder and chocolate chips, allowing you to create a rich and indulgent treat from scratch.
  • Its unique chocolatey twist on traditional bread recipes adds a touch of excitement to any occasion, making it a go-to choice for impressing your for special occasions or dessert.
  • Serve it as a dessert, pair it with your morning coffee, or even turn it into a snack.
  • The combination of Dutch unsweetened cocoa powder, semisweet chocolate chips, and a balanced mix of ingredients creates bread with a rich, deep chocolate flavor that's moist and delicious.
Easy Chocolate Bread Recipe (2)

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • All-Purpose Flour - Serves as the primary dry ingredient, providing structure and stability to the bread while allowing it to rise to the perfect texture.
  • Dutch Unsweetened Cocoa Powder - Responsible for infusing the bread with its deep chocolate flavor, making it the star of the show in this recipe.
  • Baking Soda and Baking Powder - Work together as leavening agents, helping the bread rise and achieve a soft and fluffy texture.
  • Salt - Enhances the overall flavor profile of the bread by balancing out the sweetness and intensifying the chocolatey notes.
  • Butter - Adds richness and moisture to the bread, contributing to its tender crumb and providing a subtle buttery taste.
  • Granulated Sugar - Brings sweetness to the bread, creating a contrast with the cocoa powder's bitterness, providing a pleasant level of sweetness.
  • Vanilla Extract - Adds a subtle and aromatic sweetness that complements the chocolate.
  • Buttermilk - Contributes moisture and tanginess to the batter, ensuring a moist and tender result while enhancing the bread's overall flavor.
  • Eggs - Acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the ingredients together and providing structure to the bread.
  • Sour Cream - Adds creaminess and moisture, resulting in a moist texture and a slight tangy note that complements the chocolate.
  • Canola Oil - Adds a touch of lightness to the bread, contributing to its moist and tender crumb while keeping it from becoming too heavy.
  • Semisweet Chocolate Chips - These are the delightful pockets of gooey, melted chocolate throughout the bread, creating bursts of rich and sweet indulgence in each bite while also adding texture to the loaf.

How To Make Chocolate Loaf Cake

Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Line 2 loaf pans with a piece of parchment paper. Cut a piece of parchment paper that is long and narrow. Make sure the width of the paper is the same size as the length of the pan. This will create a sling. Spray the parchment paper with cooking spray while it is inside the loaf pan. Set aside.

Combine the wet ingredients: Start by creaming the butter and sugar together in the bowl of a stand mixer and mix until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil. Mix until evenly distributed, then mix in the sour cream.

Add dry ingredients: To the wet mixture, add the baking powder and baking soda and mix. Then, slowly add the cocoa powder while mixing on low. Alternate the buttermilk and flour until all is incorporated without overmixing. Slowly mix one cup of the chocolate chips until just combined.

Bake and cool: Pour the chocolate loaf batter into the prepared baking pans. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top evenly. Bake for 50-55 minutes. Let the chocolate bread cool completely. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Baking Tips

  • Allow your butter, buttermilk, and eggs to come to room temperature before starting. This helps with proper mixing and ensures a smoother batter.
  • When incorporating dry and wet ingredients, mix them in gradually. Alternate adding the buttermilk and flour, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, to prevent overmixing and achieve a tender crumb.
  • When adding the semisweet chocolate chips to the batter, gently fold them in using a spatula. This prevents the chips from sinking to the bottom during baking and ensures even distribution.
  • Don't skip greasing the parchment paper-lined loaf pans with cooking spray. This step ensures easy removal of the bread and prevents sticking.
  • When lining the loaf pans with parchment paper, create a sling by leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift the baked bread out of the pans.
  • To determine doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. The bread is ready if it comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. If not, continue baking for a few more minutes.
  • Allow the baked loaves to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps to set the texture and flavors, making for a better-tasting bread.

Variations

  • Add a citrusy zing by mixing finely grated orange zest into the batter. The combination of chocolate and orange is a great twist that adds a burst of freshness.
  • Enhance the texture and flavor by folding in your favorite chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, giving your bread a satisfying crunch.
  • For coffee lovers, substitute a portion of the buttermilk with brewed espresso or strong coffee to intensify the chocolate flavor with a hint of java.
  • Instead of semisweet chocolate chips, opt for white chocolate chips to create a sweeter, creamier contrast in your Chocolate Bread.
  • Add a refreshing twist by incorporating a few drops of peppermint extract into the batter.
  • Swirl spoonfuls of Nutella into the batter before baking for a hazelnut-chocolate surprise in every slice.
  • Use mini semisweet chocolate chips for a more evenly distributed chocolatey experience throughout the bread.
  • Infuse a warm, comforting flavor to the dry ingredients by adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This will give your Chocolate Bread a spiced undertone.
  • Create a beautiful contrast by swirling raspberry jam into the batter.
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Storing & Freezing

Storing: To keep your chocolate bread / chocolate loaf cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to one week.

Freezing: Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the bread at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

FAQ

Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch cocoa powder?

Yes, you can substitute natural cocoa powder for Dutch cocoa powder, but be aware that natural cocoa powder has a more acidic flavor profile. This substitution may result in a slightly different taste and texture.

Can I make this recipe without a mixer?

Yes, you can make this recipe without a mixer by using a sturdy wooden spoon or a whisk. Cream the butter and sugar together by hand until well combined and fluffy, and then proceed with the rest of the steps as directed in the recipe.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe for less sweet bread?

Yes, you can reduce the granulated sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet Chocolate Bread. However, keep in mind that sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the bread's texture and moisture. Adjusting the sugar may alter the final result, so be cautious when making changes.

Easy Chocolate Bread Recipe (5)

More Chocolate Desserts

  • Chocolate Frosted Shortbread Cookies
  • Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
  • Easy Chocolate Mint Brownies
  • Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

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Easy Chocolate Bread Recipe (6)

Chocolate Bread

Satisfy your chocolate cravings with this Easy Chocolate Bread Recipe. It's a decadent twist on classic pound cake. Packed with natural cocoa powder and chocolate chips, it's a delightful breakfast, snack, or dessert treat, perfect for any chocolate lover! Also known as chocolate loaf cake, it's a quick and delicious way to enjoy rich, chocolaty goodness.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Bread, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 16 Slices

Calories 292 kcal

Ingredients

  • cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup Dutch unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ tsp baking soda
  • ¾ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup butter (salted) room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • cup buttermilk room temperature
  • 2 eggs room temperature
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup canola oil
  • cup semisweet Chocolate chips reserve ½ cup for the topping

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350℉—line 2 loaf pans with parchment paper. The easiest way to do this is to cut a piece of parchment paper that is long and narrow. Make sure the width of the paper is the same size as the length of the pan. This will create a sling. Spray the parchment paper with cooking spray while it is inside the loaf pan. Set aside.

  • Add butter and granulated sugar to the bowl of your mixer. Mix until the butter and sugar are mixed together well. Next, mix in the eggs, vanilla extract, and canola oil. Mix until light and fluffy, then mix in the sour cream.

  • Add salt, baking powder, and baking soda and mix until well incorporated. Slowly add in the Dutch cocoa powder while the mixer is on low. Alternate adding the buttermilk and flour. Next, mix in one cup of semisweet chocolate chips.

  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pans. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top of the batter. Bake loaves for 50-55 minutes.

  • Cool completely, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Allow your butter, buttermilk, and eggs to come to room temperature before starting. This helps with proper mixing and ensures a smoother batter.
  • When incorporating dry and wet ingredients, mix them in gradually. Alternate adding the buttermilk and flour, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, to prevent overmixing and achieve a tender crumb.
  • When adding the semisweet chocolate chips to the batter, gently fold them in using a spatula. This prevents the chips from sinking to the bottom during baking and ensures even distribution.

Nutrition

Calories: 292kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 4gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 141mgPotassium: 175mgFiber: 3gSugar: 19gVitamin A: 254IUVitamin C: 0.03mgCalcium: 47mgIron: 2mg

*All nutrition information provided is automatically calculated and is an estimate and will vary based on ingredients, brands, and changes in cooking methods listed in the recipe. If you need exact numbers on your ingredients, I would recommend calculating them with your prefered nutrition calculator.

Keyword Chocolate Bread

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Easy Chocolate Bread Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What makes bread super soft and fluffy? ›

Instant milk powder makes bread dough super soft and fluffy and also helps to give it a good rise. It also contributes to the dough staying nice and soft after baking for a little longer than a recipe that does not use milk powder.

What is the secret to softer bread? ›

Bread Making Tips For Softer Bread
  1. Do Not Over-Knead Your Dough. ...
  2. Ensure Dough is Well Hydrated. ...
  3. Lubricate With Oil. ...
  4. Add Sugar. ...
  5. Add Eggs. ...
  6. Reduce Baking Time. ...
  7. Create Steam in Oven. ...
  8. Add Milk.
Mar 27, 2023

What is the secret to making homemade bread? ›

12 tips for making perfect bread
  1. Use the right yeast. ...
  2. Store your yeast properly. ...
  3. Treat salt with care. ...
  4. Take your time. ...
  5. Try different flours. ...
  6. Consider vitamin C. ...
  7. Practice makes perfect. ...
  8. Don't prove for too long.

What are the 3 main ingredients of quick breads? ›

The ingredients found in the largest amounts in quick breads are flour, sugar, and fat. These ingredients will provide calories but very little essential nutrients. Combined with a glass of milk, a serving of fruit, or by themselves, quick breads can be enjoyed as part of a healthful diet.

What is the best flour for soft bread? ›

AP flour can be used in the making of rich or enriched breads such as soft rolls, or brioche,” says Chef Stephen, which are meant to be softer in nature, rather than crusty.

What does powdered milk do for bread? ›

High-heat nonfat milk powder is processed at a higher temperature, which means it has a higher denatured protein content. High-heat milk powder also has a sweeter, slightly more caramelized flavor. The added sweetness and protein helps bread dough rise—particularly enriched dough like brioche.

How can I make my bread lighter and fluffy? ›

Adding dry milk powder to your bread dough will help your loaf rise higher. In addition, the loaf will stay soft and hold moisture longer which again means it will last longer. It also helps brown the crust. If you want a lighter fluffier bread loaf just add 2 Tbsp of dry milk to the flour per loaf of your bread.

Does letting bread rise longer make it fluffier? ›

Does Rising Bread Affect Its Texture? For a fluffy bread texture, the key is to let the bread rise long enough.

Does milk make bread softer? ›

The fat and lactose in milk help with tenderizing the crumb of the bread making it softer and sweeter. The crust of the bread also gets more caramelization. Be aware that bread made with milk should not be baked at too high of a temperature to prevent it from browning too much too soon.

Why do you put water on bread before baking? ›

Two reasons: By keeping the outer surface of the bread moist, it delays crust formation. This allows the bread to expand (or “spring”) for longer and develop the nice round shape. Without water, it might form a crust early on, but then as the middle bakes, it will expand and burst the crust.

Why wet bread before baking? ›

Wetting the dough causes the surface to steam. Covering it traps the moisture. This partnership stops the bread from drying out on the surface in the hot air of the oven and forming a premature crust. Your bread rises more and produces a richer colour, becoming glossy on the surface.

What makes the tastiest bread? ›

Choose Quality Flours

Possibly the most crucial part of making delicious bread is choosing quality flour. Flour is the main ingredient in bread making. While many experienced bakers know that the quality of flour is important, it's a factor that is often overlooked by novice bakers.

What is the biscuit method? ›

The biscuit-method, also used for scones, is prepared by sifting together the dry ingredients including flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder, the fat is then cut into the dry ingredients, and the mixture is folded together with the liquid producing a dense yet flakey texture.

Can you bake bread in the microwave Why or why not? ›

In the microwave, bread does not form a brown crust. Microwaved bread also rises more during baking, which can cause a texture problem: the texture may be uneven due to the collapse of gas pockets that form during rising. Be aware that yeast-based bread bakes best in an oven or bread-maker.

Are muffins a drop batter? ›

Muffins and some coffee cakes are made from a drop batter. Soft Dough: So stiff it needs to be molded on a board.

How do you keep homemade bread fluffy? ›

Bread boxes, if you have one, work great, but you can also use wax paper, a beeswax and linen bag, or even a dishcloth. A clean dish towel is one of Hartzheim's favorite options. "Plastic bags help keep the crumb (the interior of the loaf) soft but also make the crust soft.

Why is my bread not fluffy and soft? ›

Incorrect Activation or Wrong Yeast. For the bread to appear soft and fluffy, You must ensure that your yeast ferments correctly. It's not just the temperature in your kitchen, but also the activity of the yeast. Also, you must add the yeast to warm water to activate it.

Does kneading dough make it softer? ›

As you knead, you'll start to feel the texture of the dough change; it will begin to smooth out and feel softer and more elastic.

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