Chocolate Swirl Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting and Berry Crumble

Introduction: This eye-catching and delicious chocolate swirl loaf is topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with vibrant berry crumble. The rich chocolate swirls inside add a delightful surprise in every bite, while the creamy frosting and tangy berry topping provide an irresistible contrast of flavors. Perfect for brunch or as a dessert centerpiece, this loaf is a showstopper!

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Berry Crumble Topping:
  • ½ cup freeze-dried raspberries or strawberries, crushed

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
   • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
2. Create the Chocolate Swirl:
   • Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
   • Drizzle the melted chocolate over the batter and use a knife to gently swirl it through.
   • Pour the remaining batter over the chocolate swirl and smooth the top.
3. Bake the Loaf:
   • Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
   • In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
   • Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Frost and Decorate:
   • Once the loaf is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
   • Sprinkle the crushed freeze-dried berries generously over the frosting for a vibrant finish.
6. Serve:
   • Slice and enjoy this chocolate-swirl loaf with its delightful combination of rich chocolate, smooth frosting, and tangy berries!

This loaf is perfect for any special occasion or as a sweet treat for your loved ones!