Chocolate Breadmaker Cake

1.In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

2.In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

3.Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4.Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

5.Stir in the cooled brewed coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor and add moisture.

6.Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips if using, for extra bursts of chocolate.

7.Lightly grease the breadmaker pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

8.Pour the batter into the breadmaker pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

9.Place the pan into the breadmaker and select the 'Cake' or 'Quick Bread' setting, depending on your machine's options. Set the crust color to medium if available.

10.Start the breadmaker and bake for approximately 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

11.Once the baking cycle is complete, carefully remove the pan from the breadmaker and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

12.Invert the cake onto a cooling rack and allow it to cool completely before serving.

13.Optionally, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.