When classic pound cake meets rich cocoa and tangy cream cheese, the result is nothing short of magical. This Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a luxurious, dense, and moist dessert with a soft swirl of chocolate flavor and a velvety ganache topping that makes each slice an indulgent experience. Whether you’re entertaining guests, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself to something special, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

This recipe is perfect for home bakers who love rich, bakery-style desserts with layers of flavor and a beautiful presentation. It’s easy enough for a weekend project and elegant enough to serve at holidays, birthdays, or dinner parties.

Why This Pound Cake is a Must-Try

• Creamy & Moist Texture: Thanks to the cream cheese, the crumb is ultra-tender and melts in your mouth.

• Rich Chocolate Swirl: A marbled effect brings visual appeal and double the flavor.

• Ganache Glory: A glossy chocolate ganache glaze transforms this cake from simple to showstopper.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for prepping ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pound Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 (8 oz / 226g) package cream cheese, softened

• 2 1/2 cups (500g) granulated sugar

• 6 large eggs

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp milk (optional – only if batter is too thick)

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate

• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream

• Optional garnish: chocolate shavings or curls

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Electric mixer (hand or stand)

• Large mixing bowls

• Measuring cups and spoons or a digital kitchen scale

• Rubber spatula

• Loaf pan (standard 9×5-inch)

• Sifter or fine mesh strainer

• Skewer or toothpick (for swirling and testing doneness)

• Wire cooling rack

• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for ganache)

How to Make Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Base

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the sugar, beating until light and airy—this usually takes 3–5 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet mixture and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Divide and Flavor

Split the batter into two equal portions. Stir the unsweetened cocoa powder into one half to make the chocolate batter. If it becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk to loosen it.

Step 5: Layer and Swirl

Spoon alternating dollops of plain and chocolate batter into the prepared loaf pan. Begin and end with chocolate for a beautiful finish. Use a skewer or knife to gently swirl the batters together for a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake for 70–80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for 1 minute. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 8: Glaze and Garnish

Pour the ganache over the cooled pound cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. For added flair, sprinkle with chocolate shavings or curls. Let the ganache set before slicing.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temp to ensure a smooth batter.

• No cocoa? No problem: Use melted dark chocolate (cooled) in place of cocoa for a richer chocolate layer.

• Flavor Boosters: Add a splash of coffee or espresso to the chocolate batter to deepen the cocoa flavor.

• Festive Twist: Mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture. Orange zest or almond extract can also elevate the flavor profile.

How to Store and Freeze

• Room Temperature: Store the cake (without ganache) in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate: If topped with ganache, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

• Freeze: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and glaze before serving.

Food & Drink Pairings

Pair this rich pound cake with:

• A bold espresso or creamy cappuccino

• A glass of red wine like Merlot or Port

• Vanilla or raspberry ice cream for contrast

• Fresh berries for a fruity balance

FAQ: Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Why is my pound cake dense or dry?

This cake is meant to be rich and slightly dense, but it shouldn’t be dry. Overbaking or overmixing can cause dryness. Check your oven temp with an oven thermometer and avoid overbeating after adding flour.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

It’s best to use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.

Can I bake this in a bundt pan?

Absolutely! Adjust the baking time slightly (start checking around 60 minutes) and grease the bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

How do I get a clean ganache finish?

Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring for more control. Pour from the center and let it gently spread to the edges. Use a spoon to guide the drips if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake is an absolute delight for chocolate lovers and fans of classic pound cakes alike. With its marbled center, rich ganache topping, and indulgent texture, it’s a dessert that stands out at any gathering or makes any day feel a bit more special.

If this cake made your day a little sweeter, don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family! Subscribe to the blog for more bakery-worthy desserts, easy recipes, and pro baking tips. Let’s bake something beautiful together! 🍫🍰