If you're a fan of chocolate desserts, you'll love this 1 Loaf (9" X 5" X 3") Chocolate Pound Cake. But beware, this delicious cake packs quite a punch with 3781 calories per loaf.
Despite its high calorie count, chocolate pound cake offers some nutritional benefits. One slice contains 212 calories, 25 grams of carbs, 12 grams of fat, and 3 grams of protein. It also contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and vitamin A.
In this article, we'll explore the ingredients and steps to make a delicious chocolate pound cake, its nutritional content, and some healthier alternatives to enjoy while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients of Chocolate Pound Cake
To make 1 Loaf (9" X 5" X 3") Chocolate Pound Cake, you'll need the following ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Before starting, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Calories in Chocolate Pound Cake
One slice (1/12th of the loaf) of chocolate pound cake contains approximately 212 calories. It's important to note that this is a high-calorie dessert and should be consumed in moderation.
How to Make Chocolate Pound Cake
Follow these steps to make a delicious chocolate pound cake: - Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9" X 5" X 3" loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in 3 parts, alternating with the milk and vanilla extract, beating until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the cake as is or dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Health Benefits of Chocolate Pound Cake
While chocolate pound cake is not necessarily a healthy dessert, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Cocoa powder, the main ingredient in chocolate pound cake, is high in flavanols which have been linked to improved heart health by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow. However, it's important to consume chocolate cake in moderation and balance it with a healthy diet and exercise.
Serving Size of Chocolate Pound Cake
One loaf of chocolate pound cake can serve up to 12 people, with each person having one slice. It's important to keep track of portion sizes to avoid consuming too many calories at once.
Macronutrients in Chocolate Pound Cake
One slice of chocolate pound cake contains the following macronutrients: - Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fat: 12 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
Micronutrients in Chocolate Pound Cake
While chocolate pound cake is not a significant source of micronutrients, it does contain small amounts of the following: - Iron: 5% of the daily value
- Calcium: 2% of the daily value
- Vitamin A: 2% of the daily value
Tips to Enjoy Chocolate Pound Cake
Here are some tips to enjoy chocolate pound cake in a healthier way: - Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Substitute applesauce or mashed bananas for some of the butter to reduce the calorie and fat content.
- Top with fresh fruit or berries for added flavor and nutrition.
Healthier Alternatives to Chocolate Pound Cake
If you're looking for a healthier dessert option, consider the following alternatives to chocolate pound cake: - Fresh fruit salad with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Homemade frozen yogurt made with fresh or frozen fruit and low-fat yogurt.
- Baked apples or pears drizzled with honey and cinnamon.
Conclusion
Chocolate pound cake is a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While it is high in calories, it does offer some nutritional benefits and can be made healthier with a few simple substitutions. Next time you're in the mood for something sweet, give this chocolate pound cake recipe a try or opt for one of its healthier alternatives.
All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt.
Frequently Asked Questions about a Chocolate Pound Cake
1. How many servings are in one loaf of chocolate pound cake?
It depends on how thickly you slice the cake, but typically a 9" x 5" x 3" loaf of chocolate pound cake can yield around 12-16 servings.
2. How many calories are in one serving of chocolate pound cake?
Assuming 12 servings per loaf, each slice of chocolate pound cake would be approximately 315 calories. However, if the slices are larger or smaller, the calorie count would change accordingly.
3. How should I store my leftover chocolate pound cake?
Chocolate pound cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months.
4. Can I add any additional ingredients to the chocolate pound cake mix?
Yes, you can add additional ingredients such as nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter or caramel to the batter before baking to jazz up the flavor.
5. How can I make a healthier version of chocolate pound cake?
Try substituting some of the butter and sugar in the recipe with healthier options such as applesauce, Greek yogurt, honey, or maple syrup. You can also use whole wheat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour to add some extra fiber and protein to the cake.