Marble Loaf Cake Recipe
*Introduction:*
A Marble Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of vanilla and chocolate in a beautifully swirled, moist cake. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon snack, a family gathering, or a special dessert, this cake offers the best of both worlds with its two-tone, marbled design. The soft, fluffy texture paired with the sweet vanilla and chocolate flavors makes it a universally loved dessert.
*Ingredients:*
– 2 cups (250 grams) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (25 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) hot water
*Instructions:*
1. *Prepare the Oven and Pan:*
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. This step will also make it easier to remove the cake once baked.
2. *Mix Dry Ingredients:*
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
3. *Cream Butter and Sugar:*
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure the butter and sugar are fully incorporated.
4. *Add Eggs and Vanilla:*
Add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
5. *Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk:*
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in 2-3 batches, alternating with the milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which could result in a dense cake.
6. *Make the Cocoa Batter:*
Divide the batter into two equal portions. In a small bowl, mix the unsweetened cocoa powder with hot water to create a smooth paste. Add this cocoa paste to one portion of the batter and stir until fully combined.
7. *Layer and Swirl the Batters:*
Spoon the vanilla and chocolate batters alternately into the prepared loaf pan, layering them evenly. Once both batters are in the pan, use a knife or skewer to gently swirl them together, creating the marbled effect. Be careful not to overdo it, as you want to maintain the distinct vanilla and chocolate swirls.
8. *Bake the Cake:*
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done. If not, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking again.
9. *Cool the Cake:*
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
*Serving Suggestion:*
Slice the marble loaf cake once it has completely cooled. It’s perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a cup of tea or coffee. The swirling of vanilla and chocolate creates a lovely visual appeal, making it a great centerpiece for any dessert table.
*Conclusion:*
This Marble Loaf Cake is an easy-to-make, delicious treat that brings together the best of both vanilla and chocolate in every bite. Its tender crumb and stunning marbled design will impress both visually and in taste, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.