Easy and Perfect Chocolate Tea Cake

Ingredients:

1. 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3. 1 teaspoon baking powder
4. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
7. 1 cup granulated sugar
8. 2 large eggs
9. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
10. 1 cup buttermilk

(Optional: Chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture)

Steps:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

• In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

• Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Alternate Mixing

• Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.

Step 6: Optional Additions

• Fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts if desired.

Step 7: Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

• Allow the Chocolate Tea Cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Slice and Enjoy

• Once cooled, slice the cake into generous portions and savor the simplicity and perfection of this Easy Chocolate Tea Cake. Perfect for any occasion or a sweet moment of self-indulgence.