Chocolate Nut Loaf
A rich, moist chocolate nut loaf with tender crumb and crunchy nuts, perfect for dessert or teatime, appealing to chocolate lovers and nut enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar in a bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Blend in melted chocolate and vanilla.
- Add the flour and soda alternately with buttermilk, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into two greased 4 x 8-inch loaf pans.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour.
- Allow to cool.
- Dust with confectioners' sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate. If you're out of buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure that the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
This Chocolate Nut Loaf is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can also enhance the presentation. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat or dessert after a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chocolate Nut Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate, which can extend freshness up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in a toaster oven or microwave briefly to retain moisture without drying out the loaf.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Nut Loaf contains roughly 650 calories, with 12g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of chocolate in this recipe?
Yes, you can use semi-sweet or dark chocolate if you prefer a sweeter loaf. Just adjust the sugar levels accordingly if you opt for a sweeter chocolate to avoid making the loaf too sweet.
How do I know when the loaf is done baking?
The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can cover the top with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Can I freeze the Chocolate Nut Loaf?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).