Marble Loaf Cake Recipe

by

Introduction

Marble Loaf Cake is a delightful combination of rich chocolate and vanilla batters swirled together to create a visually stunning pattern and a deliciously moist texture. This classic treat is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a sweet dessert. With its soft crumb and buttery flavor, each slice offers a perfect balance of chocolate and vanilla in every bite. The simple recipe yields a gorgeous loaf that’s easy to make and impressive to serve!

Ingredients Quantity

For the Cake Batter

  • All-purpose flour: 1 ¾ cups (220g)
  • Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon
  • Unsalted butter: ¾ cup (170g), room temperature
  • Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200g)
  • Eggs: 3 large
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Milk: ½ cup (120ml)
  • Cocoa powder: ¼ cup (25g)
  • Boiling water: 2 tablespoons (to dissolve cocoa powder)

For the Optional Vanilla Glaze

  • Powdered sugar: 1 cup (120g), sifted
  • Milk: 2-3 tablespoons
  • Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon

Instructions

For the Marble Loaf Cake

  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch (23x13cm) loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
  • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  1. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
  1. Alternate the Dry Ingredients and Milk:
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk in two additions, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined — do not overmix.
  1. Create the Chocolate Batter:
  • In a separate bowl, dissolve the cocoa powder in 2 tablespoons of boiling water to form a smooth paste. Take 1 cup of the vanilla batter and mix it into the cocoa paste until fully combined to create the chocolate batter.
  1. Layer the Batter in the Pan:
  • Spoon dollops of vanilla and chocolate batter alternately into the prepared loaf pan. Using a butter knife or skewer, gently swirl the batters together to create a marbled pattern. Be careful not to overdo the swirling to keep the distinct marble effect.
  1. Bake the Cake:
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
  1. Cool and Remove:
  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Vanilla Glaze (Optional)

  1. Make the Glaze:
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add another tablespoon of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
  1. Glaze the Cake:
  • Drizzle the glaze over the cooled marble loaf cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even baking.
  • Perfect Swirl: Don’t over-swirl the batters; a few gentle swirls will give you that classic marble effect.

Recommendations

  • Serving Suggestions: Serve slices of this cake with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat, or with a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant dessert.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Freeze for longer storage.

Enjoy the delicate marbling and luscious flavor of this beautiful Marble Loaf Cake — a delightful treat for any occasion! 🍫🍰✨

Leave a Comment