1. Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
4. Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.