Classic Marble Cake Recipe
A timeless, moist marble cake combining rich chocolate and soft vanilla swirls. Simple to make, visually stunning, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour spoon and level
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 cup milk whole or 2%
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- ½ cup butter softened (not melted)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder natural type
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round pan.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add flour, sugar, milk, eggs, butter, baking powder, vanilla, and salt.
- Mix batter: Beat slowly until combined, then mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Separate batter: Transfer ¾ cup of the batter to a small bowl for the chocolate portion.
- Make chocolate batter: Stir cocoa powder into the reserved batter until evenly mixed.
- Create marble effect: Pour vanilla batter into the prepared pan. Add dollops of chocolate batter, then swirl lightly with a knife in figure-eight motions.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Let cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Use room-temperature eggs and butter for best texture.
Don’t overmix after adding cocoa—light swirling gives the best marble pattern.
Check baking powder freshness for proper rise.
Store at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
For a twist, try adding orange zest, instant coffee, or mini chocolate chips to customize flavor.