This recipe is so good, I’ve cooked it four times this month and it never gets old!

This recipe is so good, I’ve cooked it four times this month and it never gets old! Because it blends the fudgy richness of a classic brownie with the structure of a quick bread, it creates a dense, chocolate-packed loaf that feels indulgent yet comforting. Since it mixes entirely in one bowl and bakes beautifully in a standard loaf pan, it’s as practical as it is decadent. The crackly top, soft center, and melty chocolate pockets make every slice unforgettable.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9x5 loaf pan with parchment.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add eggs, melted butter, oil, vanilla, and milk. Stir until a thick, smooth batter forms.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Pour into the loaf pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
7. Cool in the pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to finish cooling.
8. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter or spread of choice.

When I first baked this chocolate loaf, I expected something closer to a traditional quick bread. Instead, it emerged from the oven smelling like a tray of brownies and tasting even better—dense, rich, and nearly molten at the center. That first loaf didn’t last a day, so I made it again. And again. Soon it became a ritual, the kind of recipe I could mix on autopilot yet still appreciate with every slice. It’s simple, comforting, and a sure way to brighten even the busiest week.

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Why This Loaf Works So Well

Brownie Texture in Bread Form

This loaf borrows everything good from a brownie—fudgy texture, intense cocoa flavor, and a crackly top—while adding enough structure to slice cleanly. Because the batter stays thick, it bakes into a moist interior without collapsing.

Simple, One-Bowl Method

Although the flavor is deep and complex, the technique stays effortless. Since the dry ingredients mix easily with the wet ones, the batter comes together quickly with no special equipment.

Building Layers of Chocolate Flavor

Cocoa + Melted Butter

Cocoa powder provides depth, while melted butter enhances richness. Because the fat blooms the cocoa, the chocolate flavor intensifies without requiring complicated steps.

The Magic of Mix-Ins

Chocolate chips create molten pockets that stay soft even after cooling. Although optional, they add bursts of flavor that mimic brownie chunks hidden within each slice.

Serving and Styling Ideas

Everyday Treats

A warm slice topped with salted butter feels luxurious without being fussy. Because the loaf travels well, it also works for lunchboxes, picnics, or simple after-school treats.

Dress It Up

Spread a thin layer of cream cheese, drizzle lightly with caramel, or top with fresh berries. Although delicious alone, the bread adapts easily to different occasions.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

How to Store

Wrap the loaf tightly and keep it at room temperature for three days. Since it stays moist, the texture holds beautifully.

Freezing

Freeze slices individually for quick, ready-to-reheat snacks. A brief microwave warm-up brings back the brownie-like softness.

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FAQ

Can I add nuts?
Yes. Walnuts or pecans add crunch without affecting texture.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute plant-based butter and milk for an easy alternative.

Is Dutch-process cocoa okay?
Absolutely. It creates an even deeper chocolate flavor.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Reduce by up to 1/4 cup without noticeably changing texture.

Can this become muffins?
Yes. Bake 18–22 minutes at the same temperature.

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Conclusion

This recipe is so good, I’ve cooked it four times this month and it never gets old—and once you try it, you’ll understand why. Because it delivers rich chocolate flavor with minimal effort, it becomes a dependable favorite for gatherings, gifting, or simple indulgence. Every slice tastes like comfort, making it a recipe worth returning to again and again.