Dense Chocolate Loaf In Square Tin

Our answer

Nigella's Dense Chocolate Loaf Cake (from HOW TO BE A DOMESTIC GODDESS) is baked in a loaf tin that is roughly 23 x 13 x 7cm. These tins usually have a capacity of around 1.9 litres and this equates to a 20cm (8-inch) square tin that is at least 5cm (2 inches) deep, or a slightly shallower 23cm (9-inch) square tin. So it is likely that the cake could be converted from a loaf to a square tin. However please note that the cake does sink slightly in the centre on cooling and this may be more noticeable in a square cake.

In converting other cakes from loaf to square pans we have found that the baking temperatures and times are usually about the same. However this batter is very liquid so there could be some variation. We would suggest carefully peeking at the cake 5 minutes before the end of the original cooking time to see if it looks fully cooked, and if not then check every 5 minutes until it is done. A cake tester inserted into the centre of the cake should have a few damp crumbs clinging to it. We would also mention that as we have not baked this cake in a square tin we are unable to guarantee the results.