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classic marble cake

Marble cake is a classic dessert that combines vanilla and chocolate cake batters swirled together to create a beautiful marbled effect. It’s moist, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp hot water

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf or bundt pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
  6. Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
  7. Divide the batter in half. In a small bowl, combine cocoa powder and hot water to make a paste, then mix it into one half of the batter to create the chocolate portion.
  8. Spoon dollops of vanilla and chocolate batter alternately into the prepared pan. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batters together to create a marbled effect.
  9. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the chocolate batter.
  • This cake pairs well with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze.
  • Make sure not to over-swirl, or the batters will mix too much and lose the marble effect.

Nutrition

Keywords: marble cake, chocolate vanilla cake, swirl cake, easy marble cake, homemade cake