Chocolate Chip Pound Cake with Rich Chocolate Icing Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then this Chocolate Chip Pound Cake with Rich Chocolate Icing Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a buttery, dense pound cake dotted with melty semi-sweet chocolate chips, all draped in a luscious, glossy chocolate icing that melts in your mouth. This cake is comfort food elevated and perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of vanilla and chocolate that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and richness. From the buttery base to the creamy sour cream that keeps the cake moist, each component plays a starring role in making this cake unforgettable.

• 3 cups (360 g) all purpose flour: The foundation for structure and tender crumb in the cake.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a light, fluffy perfection.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• 1½ cups (339 g) unsalted butter, room temperature: Provides richness and a velvety texture.
• 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering.
• 5 large eggs, room temperature: Bind ingredients and add a lightness to the dense pound cake.
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that complements the chocolate.
• 1 cup (240 g) sour cream, room temperature: Keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle tang.
• 2 cups (340 g) semi sweet chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate throughout the cake.
• 2 oz. (60 g) chocolate chips: For the rich chocolate icing that finishes the cake beautifully.
• 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter: Adds smoothness to the icing.
• 1 – 1½ cups (120 – 180 g) powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing.
• 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate icing with a hint of warmth.
• 2 – 3 tbsp (30 – 45 ml) milk, room temperature: Adjusts the icing’s consistency to perfect pourability.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Pound Cake with Rich Chocolate Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Dry Ingredients

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 10-inch bundt pan with nonstick spray, making sure to get into every nook and cranny — this ensures your cake will release easily after baking. Next, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl until well combined. This simple step guarantees an even rise throughout the cake.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This process incorporates air, which is crucial for the cake’s tender crumb, so don’t rush it.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg fully blends in before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract. This slow incorporation helps maintain the beautiful texture of the batter without curdling.

Step 4: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with two parts of sour cream, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Use the lowest mixer speed or fold by hand to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake tough. Finally, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. This slow, gentle bake ensures the pound cake cooks evenly, keeping it moist but fully set.

Step 6: Cool and Prepare the Icing

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a cooling rack or serving plate. While it cools completely, get your icing ready: melt the chocolate chips and butter together in short bursts, stirring frequently. Then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency – adjust milk or sugar as needed to perfect your glaze.

Step 7: Dress Your Cake with the Icing

When the cake is fully cooled, pour the rich chocolate icing generously over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for the glaze to set before slicing and serving your masterpiece.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Pound Cake with Rich Chocolate Icing Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Chocolate Chip Pound Cake with Rich Chocolate Icing Recipe, consider topping it with freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts. These little additions add contrasting textures and complement the rich, buttery sweetness brilliantly.

Side Dishes

Serve this pound cake alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The tartness and freshness of berries balance the richness of the cake, while ice cream adds a creamy coolness—making each bite feel like dessert heaven.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, slice the cake and arrange the pieces in a fan on a dessert platter with drizzled additional chocolate or caramel sauce. You could also create mini individual servings by baking the batter in cupcake tins and topping with the rich chocolate icing and a single chocolate chip on top for charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pound cake keeps beautifully when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigeration works but make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked pound cake without icing by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and then add the fresh chocolate icing before serving for a just-made taste.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cake warm, simply microwave individual slices for 10 to 15 seconds. This warms the chocolate chips inside and makes the cake even more tender and inviting. Be careful not to overheat, or the cake may dry out.

FAQs

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips provide the classic flavor balance, you can substitute with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips depending on your flavor preference. Just keep the quantity roughly the same.

Is there a substitute for sour cream?

Sure! If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute. It contributes similar moisture and a slight tang, helping keep the cake tender and flavorful.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for best texture.

How important is room temperature for ingredients?

Room temperature butter, eggs, and sour cream blend more easily, creating a smoother batter and better texture in your pound cake. Bringing ingredients to room temperature before you start is definitely worth the wait.

Can I skip the chocolate icing?

You can! The pound cake itself is moist and flavorful thanks to the sour cream and chocolate chips. The icing adds decadence and a glossy finish but the cake is delicious on its own or dusted lightly with powdered sugar.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Chip Pound Cake with Rich Chocolate Icing Recipe is one of those recipes that quickly becomes a beloved classic in your baking repertoire. It’s full of warmth, flavor, and just the right amount of chocolate indulgence that everyone appreciates. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to brighten your afternoon tea, I promise this cake will bring smiles all around. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and get ready for some joyful, delicious baking!

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