Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

That sounds like a wonderful way to celebrate your daughter’s birthday—especially with such a rich, flavorful cake! Here’s a comprehensive recipe for Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake, including its history, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, and a heartwarming conclusion for chocolate cake lovers.

Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

A timeless, dense, and decadently moist dessert, perfect for birthdays, holidays, or whenever your soul needs a chocolatey hug.

Introduction

Chocolate pound cake is a beloved classic, but when paired with the richness of cream cheese, it transforms into a luscious dessert that’s both tender and indulgent. This version skips the icing—not every cake needs a sugary coat. Instead, this cake stands proudly on its own with deep chocolate flavor, a moist crumb, and a silky texture thanks to cream cheese. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating your family, this cake is a true showstopper.

A Short History

The pound cake originated in Europe in the early 1700s. Traditionally made with a pound each of flour, butter, eggs, and sugar, the recipe has evolved over the years. The addition of cream cheese became popular in American kitchens in the 20th century, as bakers sought ways to enhance moisture and flavor. Combining this with chocolate—a universally adored ingredient—was a natural progression, giving birth to the Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake: dense, rich, and unforgettable.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour

½ cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder

½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

5 large eggs, room temperature

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Optional Add-ins:

½ cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (for extra richness)

1 tsp instant espresso powder (to enhance chocolate flavor)

 

Equipment Needed

10-inch Bundt pan or loaf pan

Hand or stand mixer

Mixing bowls

Sifter (for cocoa and flour)

Rubber spatula

Cooling rack

 

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Pan & Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Grease and lightly flour your Bundt or loaf pan. You can also use baking spray with flour.

3. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

 

Step 2: Cream the Butter & Cream Cheese

4. In a large bowl, beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.

5. Gradually add sugar and continue to beat until light and creamy (about 5 minutes total).

 

Step 3: Add the Eggs & Vanilla

6. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

7. Stir in vanilla extract (and espresso powder if using).

 

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry

8. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet batter. Do this in 3 parts, mixing just until combined.

9. Fold in chocolate chips if using.

 

Step 5: Bake

10. Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan.

11. Bake for 60–75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.

12. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a cooling rack.

 

Formation and Texture

Once cooled, the cake should have:

A soft, chocolatey aroma

A dense yet tender crumb

A deep brown color

No need for icing—every bite is already rich and satisfying

 

Serving Suggestions

Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish

Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream

Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for extra indulgence

 

For Chocolate Lovers Everywhere

This cake is a love letter to chocolate lovers who appreciate richness without the frills. For those who prefer their desserts unmasked by sugary frostings, this cake delivers deep flavor and velvet texture in every slice. Whether you’re enjoying it with a morning coffee or as a midnight treat, this cake becomes a companion in celebration and comfort alike.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a moment of joy baked into every slice. Made for birthdays like your daughter’s or quiet evenings at home, it speaks to the universal love for simple, honest, chocolatey goodness. From the first forkful to the last crumb, it’s a cake to remember and share.

If you’d like a printable version or want it turned into a sharable post or recipe card, just let me know!

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