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Hidden Heart Chocolate Loaf Cake

Delight in this decadent Hidden Heart Chocolate Loaf Cake featuring a surprise heart-shaped center, perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat. Moist and rich with deep chocolate flavor, this loaf cake is sure to impress.

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
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 100g dark chocolate, melted (for heart center)
  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
  5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
  7. Pour the melted dark chocolate into a heart-shaped silicone mold and freeze until solid.
  8. Carefully place the frozen chocolate hearts vertically into the batter in the loaf pan.
  9. Cover the hearts with the remaining batter, smoothing the top.
  10. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the edges comes out clean.
  11. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

For an extra wow factor, serve slices with fresh raspberries and whipped cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce.