Description
This Delicious Marble Cake features a moist vanilla and chocolate swirled batter, baked to perfection for an enticing visual and taste experience. The cake is tender, fluffy, and versatile, ideal for any celebration or afternoon treat. Optionally topped with a smooth vanilla glaze for added sweetness and moisture.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (divided: 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (divided: 1 1/2 cups and 1 tablespoon)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (plus 1 teaspoon for glaze)
- 1 cup whole milk (plus 1/4 cup milk for chocolate swirl and 1 tablespoon milk for icing)
- 1/4 cup hot water
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the 1 cup milk. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Make the chocolate swirl: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, hot water, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Stir until smooth and set aside.
- Assemble the marble effect: Divide the batter evenly into two bowls. Stir the chocolate mixture into one half of the batter, leaving the other half plain vanilla. Alternately spoon the vanilla and chocolate batters into the prepared pan, creating a marble effect by swirling gently with a knife or skewer.
- Bake the cake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the icing (optional): Whisk together the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cake before serving for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and moist.
- The swirling technique creates the classic marble effect; use a gentle hand for beautiful patterns.
- You can use a 9-inch round or square pan depending on your preference.
- Optional glaze adds extra sweetness and visual appeal but can be omitted if desired.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before adding glaze to avoid melting it.
