This rich chocolate loaf cake is a dream for any chocolate lover. With its deep chocolate flavor and moist, tender crumb, it’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion. But what truly sets this cake apart is the luscious Baileys cream cheese frosting, which adds a smooth, creamy contrast with just the right touch of Irish cream. Each slice melts in your mouth, making it an irresistible treat for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply satisfying your chocolate cravings.
Pair this decadent chocolate loaf with other chocolate delights like chocolate cupcakes, brownie cake, or black forest cheesecake for the ultimate dessert experience. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served as a showstopping centerpiece, this cake is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Loaf Cake:
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup hot coffee (or hot water)
For the Baileys Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons Baileys Original Irish Cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Make the Chocolate Loaf Cake:
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add the Buttermilk: Stir in the buttermilk, then gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Incorporate the Coffee: Slowly pour in the hot coffee (or hot water) and stir until the batter is smooth. It will be thin, but that’s normal!
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Make the Baileys Cream Cheese Frosting:
Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Add the Sugar and Baileys: Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, followed by the Baileys and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake:
Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the Baileys cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve with a cup of coffee, or pair with fresh berries for an extra special treat!
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Cooling & Frosting Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Baking Pro Tips
Use hot coffee in the batter: This enhances the chocolate flavor and ensures a moist cake.
Do not overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
Let the cake cool completely: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt.
Chill the frosting if needed: If the frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before spreading.
Enhance the decoration: Sprinkle cocoa powder or chocolate shavings over the frosting for a beautiful finish.
This Rich Chocolate Loaf Cake with Baileys Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate indulgence for any chocolate lover. The moist chocolate cake paired with the creamy, flavorful Baileys frosting makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to become a new favorite!