Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a bundt pan with butter and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps create a lighter cake texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes). This step is crucial for achieving a tender cake texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 5: Add Melted Chocolate and Vanilla

Pour in the melted milk chocolate and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and evenly combined.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the batter, alternating with whole milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

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 clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze (Optional)

In a saucepan over low heat, melt milk chocolate, butter, and heavy cream together. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Drizzle over the cooled cake.