Quatre-Quarts au Chocolat: A Classic French Chocolate Pound Cake
Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of this Quatre-Quarts au Chocolat, a French twist on the traditional pound cake. With equal parts of four simple ingredients and a touch of cocoa for chocolate lovers, this recipe delivers a moist, flavorful cake perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and utterly delicious, it’s a must-try for bakers of all levels!
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 200 g (7 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 200 g (1 ⅔ cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (11 g) baking powder
- 30 g (¼ cup) unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for a chocolate version)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F), preferably with the fan setting. Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is pale, frothy, and slightly thickened.
- Add Butter: Gradually incorporate the softened butter, mixing until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder (if using). Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Create a Smooth Batter: Stir gently until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8–10 slices
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Cocoa Option: Skip the cocoa powder for a classic quatre-quarts or add it for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month.
Enjoy this Quatre-Quarts au Chocolat with a cup of coffee or tea, or serve it with fresh berries and whipped cream for an extra-special treat. Bon appétit!
