Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and transform your kitchen into a gourmet bakery! This Vanilla and Chocolate Marble Cake is not just a dessert; it's a work of art that combines the rich, velvety smoothness of chocolate with the delicate, aromatic essence of vanilla. Imagine cutting into a slice and revealing the mesmerizing swirls of two classic flavors, perfectly intertwined in a single, stunning cake that will make your guests think you've trained in a professional pastry kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, ensuring even coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract and ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour and baking powder to remove any lumps and ensure even distribution of leavening agent.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter into two equal portions. In one portion, fold in cocoa powder until fully incorporated and creating a rich chocolate batter.
- Pour alternating spoonfuls of vanilla and chocolate batters into the prepared cake pan, creating a marbled effect by gently swirling with a knife or spatula.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles and ensure even distribution.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, slice and serve. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream if desired.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cake texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Swirling Technique: For the most beautiful marble effect, use a knife or skewer and make gentle figure-eight movements when combining batters.
- Pan Preparation: Grease and flour your pan thoroughly or use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cake removal.
- Oven Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to confirm the correct temperature, as home ovens can sometimes be slightly off.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling and maintain its delicate structure.
- Storage Tip: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
