If you have been on the lookout for a luscious, crowd-pleasing dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture, you’re going to fall in love with this Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe. It’s rich, moist, and perfectly chocolatey, offering the best of both worlds for those who need to avoid gluten without missing out on any indulgence. With a luscious frosting that melts in your mouth and an easy-to-follow method, this cake is a warm hug in loaf form — ready to brighten any occasion or quiet night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two clear glass bowls placed side by side on a white marbled surface. The bowl on the left contains a golden yellow mixture with bubbles on the surface, and a metal whisk resting inside, partially submerged. The bowl on the right holds a thick dark brown mixture, also with a metal whisk inside, covered lightly with the mixture. Both bowls have a glossy texture and the whisk handles extend out toward the front. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe uses simple but essential ingredients that each play an important role in building the perfect taste and texture. From the combination of brown and white sugars that balance sweetness with caramel notes, to the cocoa powder that delivers deep chocolate richness, every component contributes to making this loaf irresistibly delicious.

½ cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a delicious caramel undertone to the cake.
½ cup white sugar: Provides sweetness that balances out the rich cocoa flavor nicely.
½ cup olive oil: Keeps the cake wonderfully moist and tender while adding subtle fruity notes.
2 eggs: Act as a binding agent, giving structure and lift to the cake.
⅔ cup milk: Adds moisture and helps dissolve dry ingredients for a smooth batter.
¼ cup Greek yogurt: Enhances moistness and adds a slight tang for more complex flavor.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and subtle sweetness throughout.
1 ⅓ cup gluten-free all-purpose baking flour (sifted): The foundation of the loaf, providing structure without any gluten.
½ cup cocoa powder (sifted): Delivers that intense chocolate punch everyone craves.
1 teaspoon espresso powder: Amplifies the chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise and keeps it airy.
¾ teaspoon baking powder: Works in tandem with baking soda for the perfect lift.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enriches overall flavor.
2.5 ounces milk chocolate: For a luscious frosting base that is creamy and sweet.
2.5 ounces dark chocolate: Adds depth and richness to the frosting.
1 tablespoon butter: Provides smoothness and shine to the frosting.
½ cup heavy whipping cream: Creates the perfect silky texture for frosting.
2 tablespoons honey: Adds natural sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish.

How to Make Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Start by mixing the wet ingredients in a large bowl — brown sugar, white sugar, olive oil, eggs, milk, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and unified. This combination makes the batter velvety and flavorful from the get-go.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Sifting no only ensures there are no lumps, but it also lightens the texture of your cake tremendously.

Step 3: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine. Avoid overmixing — you want to maintain a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.

Step 4: Bake Your Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pour the batter into a greased loaf pan. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of rich chocolate filling your kitchen is always the best indicator of readiness!

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by melting the milk and dark chocolate together with butter in a double boiler or microwave. Stir in the heavy cream and honey until smooth and glossy. This frosting is luxurious and perfectly complements the cake’s moist texture.

Step 6: Frost and Enjoy

Once your loaf is completely cooled, spread the frosting generously over the top. Slice and serve to revel in all the chocolate goodness!

How to Serve Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe

The image shows two side-by-side views of a chocolate cake in a rectangular metal pan lined with baking paper. On the left, the pan is filled with smooth, dark brown chocolate batter, with small bubbles on the surface and some batter dripping slightly over the edge of the paper. On the right, the baked cake is rich dark brown and has a cracked, rough texture on top, sitting on the parchment paper which has brown crumbs around the edges. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Feel free to jazz up your Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, a dusting of cocoa powder, or fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness. These small touches make every bite special.

Side Dishes

Pair this loaf cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. Each pairing enhances the chocolate notes and rounds out your dessert experience beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices with a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or a spoonful of fruit compote on the side. For a festive occasion, add edible flowers or a light dusting of powdered sugar to create stunning visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep it wrapped well to preserve moisture and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will maintain best quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy a warm slice, pop a piece in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm it gently in the oven. The cake tastes heavenly warm, bringing out its soft texture and rich chocolate flavors beautifully.

FAQs

Is this Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find. Even novice bakers can achieve a delicious result following this recipe.

Can I substitute the olive oil with another oil?

Yes, you can use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil if you prefer. Olive oil adds a subtle depth but any mild oil will keep the cake moist.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt on hand?

You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or even applesauce for moisture, although each will slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Can this cake be made dairy-free as well?

For a dairy-free version, swap milk with almond or oat milk, replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt, and use dairy-free chocolate and cream substitutes for the frosting.

How long does the frosting take to set?

The frosting thickens quite quickly once spread on the cool cake, but if you want it firmer, refrigerate the cake for about 20-30 minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Gluten-Free Chocolate Loaf Cake Recipe as much as I do. It’s such a comforting dessert that feels like a little celebration every time you slice into it. Perfect for sharing with friends, family, or just treating yourself, this cake truly proves that gluten-free can be absolutely delicious and utterly satisfying.