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Desserts

Classic Marble Cake

A tender, moist marble cake with swirls of rich chocolate and vanilla flavors, baked to perfection. This classic American dessert is perfect for celebrations or an indulgent treat.

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Classic Marble Cake
Prep time20 min
Cook time45 min
Rest / other15 min
Total time80 min
Servings121 9-inch marble cake
DifficultyMedium
What you’ll need

Ingredients

Check ingredients as you go.

  • Batter
  • Chocolate Swirl
One step at a time

Let’s make it

  1. Preparation

    Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch (23 cm) bundt or tube cake pan.

  2. Batter

    In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

  3. Batter

    In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

  4. Batter

    Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

  5. Batter

    Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

  6. Chocolate Swirl

    Divide the batter evenly into two bowls. Stir the cocoa powder into one bowl until fully incorporated to create the chocolate batter.

  7. Assembly

    Drop alternating spoonfuls of vanilla and chocolate batter into the prepared pan. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batters together to create a marbled effect.

  8. Cooking

    Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  9. Finishing

    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

A little kitchen wisdom

Tips & notes

Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the cake tender. Use room temperature ingredients for best texture. The marbling technique can be customized for more or less swirl depending on your preference.

Saving it for later

Store leftover cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm, or let come to room temperature before serving if refrigerated. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.

DessertsComfort FoodFamily DinnerAmerican