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Marble cake has always been a favorite in my household. Its beautiful swirls of chocolate and vanilla never fail to impress both visually and in taste. The first time I baked this particular marble cake recipe, my family was instantly smitten. The cake was moist, fluffy, and boasted a perfect balance of vanilla and chocolate flavors. Everyone kept coming back for seconds, and even our guests were asking for the recipe. It’s safe to say that this marble cake has become a staple at our family gatherings, and I’m excited to share the recipe with you today.
Ingredients
To create this delightful marble cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons hot water
Instructions
The process of making a marble cake is both fun and rewarding. Follow these steps to create your masterpiece:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until smooth.
- Divide the batter into two equal parts. In one half, mix the cocoa powder with hot water to form a smooth paste, then fold it into the batter.
- Spoon the vanilla and chocolate batters alternately into the prepared cake pan. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the batters together gently to create a marble effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Facts
This marble cake recipe yields approximately 12 servings, with each serving containing around 320 calories. While it is a delightful treat, it’s always good to enjoy it in moderation.
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this marble cake is approximately 20 minutes, with a baking time of 45-50 minutes. In total, you can expect to have your delicious cake ready in about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
How to Serve
There are many delightful ways to serve your marble cake:
- As a classic afternoon tea cake, paired with a hot cup of your favorite tea or coffee.
- With a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert option.
- Dusted with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
- Topped with fresh berries and whipped cream for a burst of flavor and color.
- Drizzled with chocolate ganache for a more indulgent treat.
Additional Tips
To ensure your marble cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips:
- Temperature Matters: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend more smoothly and results in a better texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing the batter, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Swirling Technique: When swirling the batters, less is more. Too much swirling can cause the batters to blend together, losing the marble effect.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and prevent the cake from crumbling.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for up to three months.
FAQ Section
Below are some frequently asked questions about making marble cake:
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, or whole wheat flour for a denser, healthier option. However, adjustments to the liquid ingredients may be necessary.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Q: How can I make the cake more chocolatey?
A: To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the chocolate batter or increasing the amount of cocoa powder slightly.
Q: Can I make this cake in a bundt pan?
A: Yes, a bundt pan works well for marble cakes. Be sure to adjust the baking time as bundt cakes often require a bit longer to bake through.
Q: Is it possible to make this cake without eggs?
A: Yes, you can replace each egg with a quarter cup of unsweetened applesauce or use a commercial egg replacer for similar results.
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