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Classic Swirl Marble Cake Recipe

Classic Swirl Marble Cake Recipe

5 from 29 reviews

This Classic Swirl Marble Cake combines the rich flavors of vanilla and chocolate in a beautifully marbled loaf. Soft, moist, and perfectly balanced, it’s an easy-to-make cake that’s ideal for any occasion or a comforting homemade treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder

Wet Ingredients

  • ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter or vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (200g) sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) hot water or milk (to mix with cocoa powder)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pan and Oven: Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan or an 8-inch round pan. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This creates a smooth base for your cake and incorporates air for a tender crumb.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Stir in vanilla extract for flavor.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
  5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until you have a smooth batter, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
  6. Prepare Chocolate Batter: Divide the batter into two portions. In one portion, stir in the cocoa powder that’s been dissolved in hot water or milk to create a smooth chocolate batter.
  7. Layer and Swirl: Spoon the vanilla and chocolate batters alternately into the prepared pan. Use a knife to gently swirl through the batters to create the classic marble effect — avoid overmixing to keep the distinct colors.
  8. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is cooked through.
  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
  10. Slice and Enjoy: Slice your delicious marble cake and serve it as a delightful dessert or snack. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs and butter for better mixing and texture.
  • Be careful not to over-swirl the batter, or the marbling effect will be lost.
  • You can substitute vegetable oil for butter if you prefer a lighter texture and dairy-free option.
  • Ensure the toothpick comes out clean to avoid underbaking the cake.
  • Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Classic Marble Cake, Swirl Cake, Chocolate Cake, Vanilla Cake, Homemade Cake, Easy Cake Recipe, Dessert, Baking