The Ultimate Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe You’ll Love

The ultimate chocolate cream cheese pound cake recipe inspired by Gordon Ramsay combines the irresistible richness of chocolate with the creamy decadence of cream cheese in one unforgettable dessert. Perfectly moist and packed with flavor, this pound cake is designed to elevate any occasion, whether a family gathering or a cosy evening treat.

Are you ready to impress your guests with a delicious dessert worthy of a chef’s touch? Let’s dive into the recipe to transform your baking game and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

This chocolate cream cheese pound cake isn’t just another dessert—it’s a masterpiece that combines simplicity with sophistication, inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s emphasis on quality ingredients and bold flavours.

What Makes It Special?

1. Luxurious Texture 

  • The cream cheese adds a velvety smoothness that moistens the cake for days, making each bite irresistibly rich and satisfying.

2.     Professional Touches

  •  Inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s cooking philosophy, this recipe focuses on high-quality ingredients like premium cocoa powder and real vanilla extract to deliver a professional yet approachable dessert.

3.     Customizable and Versatile

  •  From adding a citrus zest for brightness to experimenting with different types of chocolate, this recipe is a perfect canvas for creativity.

4.     A Treat That Impresses

  •  Whether serving this cake at a dinner party or gifting it to friends, its stunning presentation and delectable flavour are guaranteed to wow your audience.

Fun Fact: A Gordon Ramsay Twist

Gordon Ramsay often highlights the importance of balance in his desserts. This cake follows that principle by blending the rich intensity of chocolate with the subtle tang of cream cheese for a perfectly harmonious flavour profile.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this moist and flavorful chocolate cream cheese pound cake recipe. To achieve the best results, make sure to gather high-quality ingredients before you begin:

For the Cake

  • 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Glaze (Optional)

  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions for a Moist Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Follow these simple steps to bake the ultimate chocolate cream cheese pound cake, ensuring a perfectly moist texture and rich flavour every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Set your oven to preheat at (163°C) 325°F.
  2. Grease a standard loaf or bundt pan with butter, Lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
  3. Sift the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

  1. Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until the texture becomes light and fluffy. Slowly add the granulated sugar, beating continuously until the mixture is smooth and pale.
Butter and cream cheese being mixed with a hand mixer in a large bowl until light and fluffy, with sugar being added gradually

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

  1. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate them fully.
  2. Stir in the vanilla extract for a burst of flavour.
A hand cracking an egg into a creamy butter and cream cheese mixture, with vanilla extract placed nearby for the next step

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

  1. Incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with additions of milk.
  2. Pro Tip: Start and end with the dry ingredients for the best texture.
  3. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
    • Note: Be careful not to overmix, leading to a dense cake.
Dry ingredients like cocoa powder and flour being folded into the wet mixture of butter, cream cheese, eggs, and milk, with chocolate chips ready to be added

Step 5: Bake the Cake to Perfection

  1. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth it with a spatula.
  2. Bake for 70-80 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes clean.
  3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
A loaf pan filled with smooth chocolate pound cake batter, ready to go into the oven, with the preheated oven glowing in the background

Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze (Optional)

  1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it simmers (do not boil).
  2. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
  3. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
  4. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for a decadent finish.
chocolate cream cheese pound cake

Pro Tips for a Perfect Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake (Inspired by Gordon Ramsay)

Take your chocolate cream cheese pound cake to the next level with these advanced tips inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s culinary expertise:

Use High-Quality Ingredients

For a richer flavour, choose premium cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips. High-quality butter and cream cheese also make a noticeable difference in texture and taste.

Room Temperature is Key

Allow your butter, cream cheese, and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth batter and an even bake.

Enhance the Chocolate Flavor

Add a pinch of instant coffee powder to the dry ingredients to amplify the chocolate taste without adding a coffee flavour.

Avoid Overmixing

Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix until the dry ingredients are incorporated to maintain a light, moist texture.

Create Layers of Flavor

For an extra touch, lightly dust the baked cake with cocoa powder before drizzling the chocolate glaze. This adds a sophisticated look and an additional hint of cocoa.

Perfect the Glaze

Ensure the heavy cream is hot enough to melt the chocolate chips evenly when preparing the glaze. Stir gently to avoid incorporating air bubbles, which can affect the glaze’s smooth finish.

Garnish Like a Pro

Garnish the finished cake with shavings of dark chocolate, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a handful of crushed nuts for added texture and a professional presentation.

Why These Tips Matter

By incorporating these techniques, you can elevate this classic pound cake into a dessert worthy of a professional patisserie. Each detail, from ingredient quality to finishing touches, adds depth and character, ensuring a memorable baking experience.

Creative Variations and Serving Ideas for Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

This chocolate cream cheese pound cake is a showstopper, but with a few creative twists, you can customize it to suit any occasion or dietary preference.

Delicious Variations for Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

1.     Vegan-Friendly Version

  • Replace the butter with vegan butter and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
  • Substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or plant-based milk.
  • Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a luscious, dairy-free finish for the glaze.

2.     Citrus Twist

  • Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus note that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate.

3.     Nutty Delight

  • Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts for added crunch and a nutty depth of flavour.

4.     Holiday Spice

  • Incorporate one teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg into the dry ingredients to give the cake a warm, spiced flavour perfect for the holiday season.

5.     Dark Chocolate Decadence

  • Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a bolder, less sweet flavour profile.

Seasonal Serving Ideas for Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

1.     Summer Elegance

  • For a light, summery treat, top slices with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a dollop of whipped cream.

2.     Winter Comfort

  • For a festive twist, serve warm slices with a salted caramel sauce drizzle and crushed peppermint candies.

3.     Elegant Dessert Plate 

  • Plate the cake for a restaurant-style presentation with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, and a garnish of mint leaves.

4.     Brunch Perfection

  • Pair a slice of this pound cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent brunch option.

Conclusion

This chocolate cream cheese pound cake recipe is a game-changer for dessert lovers. Its perfect balance of rich chocolate and creamy texture makes it a must-try for any occasion, whether hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself. This cake will surely become a staple in your baking repertoire with its easy-to-follow steps and customizable options.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to check out our Smoked Cream Cheese Recipe for a timeless treat or our Creamy Cottage Cheese Mousse for a more indulgent chocolate experience.

We’d love to see your creations! Share a photo of your chocolate cream cheese pound cake on Instagram using the hashtag #ChocolateCreamCheeseCake. Don’t forget to tag us—we might feature your post!

Let us know in the comments below how your cake turned out and what creative twists you added. Happy baking!

chocolate cream cheese pound cake

The Ultimate Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe You’ll Love

A rich, moist chocolate cream cheese pound cake topped with a decadent glossy chocolate glaze and garnished with fresh berries. Perfect for any occasion!
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine International
Servings 12 slices
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups 260g all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup 45g unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup 225g unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 ounces 225g cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups 400g granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup 120ml whole milk
  • 1 cup 170g semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Chocolate Glaze (Optional):

  • 1/2 cup 120ml heavy cream
  • 1 cup 170g semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions
 

  • Set your oven to preheat at (163°C) 325°F.
  • Grease a standard loaf or bundt pan with butter, Lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
  • Sift the flour, baking powder, cocoa powder and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
  • Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until the texture becomes light and fluffy. Slowly add the granulated sugar, beating continuously until the mixture is smooth and pale.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate them fully.
  • Stir in the vanilla extract for a burst of flavour.
  • Incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with additions of milk.
  • Pro Tip: Start and end with the dry ingredients for the best texture.
  • Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
  • Pour the batter into the pan and smooth it with a spatula.
  • Bake for 70-80 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it simmers (do not boil).
  • Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
  • Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth.
  • Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for a decadent finish.

Notes

Use High-Quality Ingredients: For a richer flavor, choose premium cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips. High-quality butter and cream cheese also make a noticeable difference in texture and tas
Room Temperature is Key: Allow your butter, cream cheese, and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth batter and an even bake.
Enhance the Chocolate Flavor: Add a pinch of instant coffee powder to the dry ingredients to amplify the chocolate taste without adding a coffee flavour.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix until the dry ingredients are incorporated to maintain a light, moist texture.te.

Nutrition Facts: (Per slice estimate)

  • Calories: ~450 kcal
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 35g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the best way to store the cake to keep it moist?

To retain moisture, wrap the cake tightly in plastic or airtight containers. Keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I use a different type of pan?

Absolutely! This recipe turns out great in a bundt pan, loaf pans, or mini loaf pans. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly—for smaller pans, start checking for doneness around 50-60 minutes

Why is cream cheese important in this recipe?

A: Cream cheese is a key ingredient because it adds richness, moisture, and a slightly tangy flavour that complements the chocolate perfectly. It also improves the cake’s texture, making it dense yet tender. For more insights into how cream cheese affects baked goods, read this article on the scientific role of cream cheese in baking.

Any tips for making this cake gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Ensure your other ingredients, like cocoa and baking powder, are certified gluten-free for the best results.

Can I add other mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits?

Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries can add a delightful texture and flavour to this cake. Just fold them in gently with the chocolate chips in Step 4.

Is it possible to make this cake without dairy?

While the cream cheese is key to this recipe, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and replace the butter with vegan butter. Switching to almond or oat milk in place of whole milk will make it fully dairy-free.

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