01 -
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a bundt pan.
02 -
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
03 -
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
04 -
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
05 -
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk and sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
06 -
If using, gently fold in the chocolate chips.
07 -
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
08 -
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
09 -
Heat heavy cream until warm (but not boiling), then pour over the chocolate chips. Let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
10 -
Slice and enjoy your rich, chocolatey pound cake!