Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting is a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate flavor with a moist, tender crumb. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. The luscious chocolate frosting adds an extra layer of indulgence, making it a standout dessert for all occasions.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: This pound cake is infused with cocoa powder, delivering an intense chocolate experience.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this impressive dessert.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether itβs a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in.
- Customizable Toppings: Add sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of ganache for an extra touch of elegance.
- Leftover Friendly: This cake stays moist and delicious for days, making it perfect for enjoying later.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here are the key items youβll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan or bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan or bundt pan: Provides the shape for your cake and ensures even baking.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort in creaming butter and sugar to achieve the right texture.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Pound Cake
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (350g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process or natural)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk or buttermilk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup (85g) mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (optional)
For the Chocolate Frosting
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325F (163C). Grease and flour a 9Γ5-inch loaf pan or a 12-cup bundt pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. This process usually takes about 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs & Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This helps ensure there are no lumps.
Step 5: Add Dry + Wet Ingredients Alternately
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture in three additions. Alternate with adding the whole milk and sour cream. Start and end with dry ingredients. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips if desired.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Allow cooling in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare Chocolate Frosting
Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add cocoa powder and mix until well combined. Alternate adding powdered sugar and milk while beating after each addition until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract and salt; adjust consistency as needed with more milk or sugar if necessary.
Step 8: Frost Your Cake
Once your cake has completely cooled, frost it generously with your chocolate frosting. Feel free to decorate with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of ganache if you like!
Enjoy every slice of this delectable Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting!
How to Serve Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting
Serving Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting can elevate any occasion. Whether itβs a birthday, holiday, or a cozy family gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your dessert experience.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of the cake alongside fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of flavor and color.
Ice Cream Delight
- A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side complements the rich flavors of the pound cake beautifully.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that pairs well with the cake.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle
- Drizzle warm chocolate ganache over the frosted cake for an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
Coffee Pairing
- Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate flavor.
Festive Sprinkles
- Add colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting for a fun and festive presentation, perfect for celebrations.
How to Perfect Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting
Perfecting your Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out just right:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter, eggs, and dairy are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better rise. 
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder before mixing prevents clumps and ensures even distribution in your batter. 
- Donβt Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to prevent a dense texture; overmixing can lead to tough cake. 
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures; this helps achieve even baking and perfect rising. 
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake to cool completely before applying frosting to prevent melting and sliding off. 
- Adjust Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a little more milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar for the desired spreadability. 
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your Chocolate Pound Cake can create a delightful meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream β The classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the rich chocolate flavor.
- Fresh Fruit Salad β A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the dense cake.
- Chocolate Mousse β Rich and airy, this dessert adds another layer of chocolate goodness.
- Coffee or Espresso β A strong brew complements the sweetness of the cake while enhancing its flavors.
- Custard Sauce β Pour warm custard over slices for an extra indulgent treat that adds moisture.
- Caramel Sauce β Drizzling caramel adds a sweet contrast that works wonderfully with chocolate.
- Nut Brittle β A crunchy side that introduces texture and nutty flavors to balance out the soft cake.
- Toasted Nuts β Serve lightly salted toasted almonds or walnuts on the side for added crunch and flavor contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting can be simple, but there are common missteps that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can prevent your batter from mixing well. Always ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smooth blend. 
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can ruin your cakeβs texture. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and liquid ingredients. 
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, especially after adding flour. 
- Ignoring the Cooling Time: Cutting into your cake too soon may cause it to crumble. Allow your cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. 
- Using Stale Ingredients: Old baking powder or expired cocoa powder can affect your cakeβs rise and flavor. Always check expiration dates before you start baking. 
- Not Preheating the Oven: A properly preheated oven is crucial for even baking. Always preheat your oven before placing your cake inside. 

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy access.
Freezing Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting
- Freeze slices wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and heat slices wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm sliced cake in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting:
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate. Adjust sweetness accordingly.
How do I make my cake more moist?
Adding additional sour cream or buttermilk can enhance moisture levels in your pound cake recipe.
What if I donβt have unsweetened cocoa powder?
You can substitute with Dutch-process cocoa powder; however, make sure itβs unsweetened to keep the balance of flavors right.
How long does this cake last?
Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting stays fresh in the refrigerator for about five days and can be frozen for up to three months.
Can I add nuts or fruit?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or dried fruit can be folded into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits or switch up the frosting as per your taste preferences. Give this recipe a tryβyour family and friends will love it!

Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich and moist Chocolate Pound Cake with Chocolate Frosting, a delightful dessert that combines a deep chocolate flavor with a tender crumb. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether itβs a birthday celebration or a cozy family dinner. The luscious chocolate frosting enhances its charm, making each slice an indulgent treat. With easy-to-follow instructions and customizable options for toppings, even novice bakers can impress their guests with this classic recipe. Enjoy the flexibility of pairing it with fresh berries, ice cream, or a drizzle of ganache for an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (350g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk or buttermilk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup (85g) mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (optional)
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk or heavy cream (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C). Grease and flour a 9Γ5-inch loaf pan or 12-cup bundt pan.
- Cream softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy (4-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well; stir in vanilla extract.
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with whole milk and sour cream, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 60-70 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool for 15 minutes in the pan before transferring to wire rack to cool completely.
- For frosting, beat softened butter until creamy; mix in cocoa powder. Alternately add powdered sugar and milk until smooth; stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- Frost cooled cake generously.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Customize frosting by adding flavors like espresso or using different types of chocolate. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.








