Extremely chocolate pound cake

Ingredients

Pound Cake

300 grams (10.6 ounces) flour
200 grams (7 ounces) sugar
40 grams (1.4 ounces) cocoa powder
6 grams (0.2 ounces) baking powder
2 teaspoons (0.35 ounces) vanilla extract
1.5 teaspoons (0.25 ounces) vinegar
100 milliliters (3.4 ounces) vegetable oil
230 milliliters (7.8 ounces) boiling water (or espresso)

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
A large mixing bowl is essential for combining your dry and wet ingredients. Opt for one with a non-slip base for added stability. 🥣
Whisk
Use a whisk to thoroughly mix your ingredients to avoid lumps. A silicone whisk can help prevent scratching your bowl. 🍂
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to baking success. Use a complete set of measuring cups and spoons for precision. 📏
Baking Pan
An 8-inch or 9-inch baking pan works best for this recipe. Line it with parchment paper for easy removal. 🍰
Oven Mitts
Don't forget oven mitts to safely handle hot items. Look for ones with a good grip. 🧤

Instructions

Step 1

1. Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature by the time you put in the cake.

Step 2

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and baking powder. It’s a good idea to sift the dry ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure an even mixture.

Step 3

3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the vegetable oil and vinegar.

Step 4

4. Pour the boiling water (or espresso) over everything. Using boiling water or hot espresso helps bring out the cocoa flavor and activates the leavening agents effectively. Mix thoroughly until combined.

Step 5

5. Avoid overmixing to prevent the dough from becoming tight. Stop mixing as soon as all the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough cake.

Step 6

6. Pour the batter into a prepared mold or baking pan. Grease the mold or line it with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 7

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If using a glass or dark-colored pan, you might need to reduce the temperature slightly to avoid over-browning.

Step 8

8. Remove the finished cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the mold. Allowing the cake to cool in the mold ensures it sets properly and retains its moisture.

Step 9

9. Once cooled, the cake will be moist and very chocolatey. Drizzle it with melted chocolate before serving for an extra touch of indulgence. Adding fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the serving experience.

Servings

Simple yet Elegant: Serve each slice with a light dusting of confectioner's sugar and a few fresh berries. The tartness from the berries perfectly balances the rich chocolate flavor. 🍓

Gourmet Touch: Drizzle the cake with a bit of warm chocolate ganache and add some whipped cream on the side. It's an indulgent treat that's sure to impress your guests. 🍫

Coffee Lover's Delight: Pair this moist chocolate pound cake with a freshly brewed cup of espresso. The intense coffee flavors will beautifully complement the cake's richness. ☕️

Kids' Favorite: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and colorful sprinkles on top. It's a fun, delightful treat that kids will go crazy for! 🍦

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute the regular flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder you use is also gluten-free. The cake will be just as moist and delicious, without any gluten! 🌾

Vegan: Replace the vegetable oil with coconut oil, and ensure the sugar you use is vegan-friendly. Check that your cocoa powder is dairy-free. Easy swaps for a scrumptiously vegan chocolate pound cake! 🥥

Faq

What's the best way to measure flour?
To get an accurate measurement, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag to prevent packing the flour down.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready! Also, the cake should start pulling away from the sides of the pan.
Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, you can use melted butter for a richer flavor. However, note that this may slightly alter the texture of the cake.
What if my cake sinks in the center?
Make sure you don’t overmix the batter and avoid opening the oven door too early. Both can cause the cake to sink in the center.
Can I add nuts or fruit to the batter?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits can be folded into the batter for extra texture and flavor.
How should I store the cake?
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 1 month.