Quick Chocolate Sour Cream Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Cuisine: American

A rich, moist chocolate cake with a tangy sour cream flavor, perfect for quick desserts or casual gatherings, offering deep cocoa taste and a tender crumb.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 1/4 cups flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the brown sugar, sour cream, and eggs.
  2. Add the dry ingredients and beat well.
  3. Turn the batter into a greased and floured 5 x 9-inch loaf pan.
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes or until the cake springs back when touched in the center.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown. If you're out of sour cream, plain yogurt can serve as a great substitute. To make the cake even more chocolatey, you can add chocolate chips to the batter. Ensure to not overmix after adding dry ingredients to keep the cake tender. This cake pairs beautifully with Peppermint Hot Chocolate during the holidays.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. It also makes a great dessert alongside a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, try pairing it with Wedding Party Punch.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the cake to cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy later, simply reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, keeping them moist.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Quick Chocolate Sour Cream Cake contains roughly 698 calories, with 9g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 821mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).

698 kcal 35% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.4g 19% DV
Total Fat 5.3g 7% DV
Carbs 119.5g 43% DV
Fiber 1g 3% DV
Sugar 32.2g 64% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 821.4mg 36% DV
Potassium 657.2mg 14% DV
Cholesterol 198.9mg 66% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 91.1mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 0.3mg
Calcium 277.9mg 21% DV
Iron 2.8mg 16% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 different types of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with different flours. All-purpose flour is ideal, but whole wheat flour can also be used for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making it denser.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

A good test for doneness is to gently press the center of the cake; it should spring back. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary slightly.

Can I freeze this chocolate cake?

Absolutely! This cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave it in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy it the next day.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →