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Hidden Heart Chocolate Loaf Cake

Close-up slightly angled Hidden Heart Chocolate Loaf Cake

Discover the delightful surprise inside this moist and rich Hidden Heart Chocolate Loaf Cake, perfect for celebrations or a special treat anytime.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 100g dark chocolate, melted (for the heart shape)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  2. In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  6. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  7. Carefully spoon the melted dark chocolate in a heart shape lengthwise along the center of the batter.
  8. Pour the remaining batter over the chocolate heart, ensuring it is fully covered.
  9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the edges comes out clean.
  10. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before removing and slicing to reveal the hidden heart.
  11. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

For an extra indulgent touch, serve slices with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.