prep time: 45 min | bake time: 40 min | total time: 2 hrs
This Chocolate Gingerbread Marble Loaf Cake combines the best of two worlds and is all tied together with a decadent chocolate glaze. It’s the perfect festive treat to celebrate the holidays with as it’s egg free and easily can be made dairy-free. This loaf cake combines the rich, smooth flavor of chocolate with the warm, spicy notes of gingerbread, creating a beautifully marbled effect. Topped with a melted chocolate glaze that is like a hard shell chocolate coating which mimics a candy car covered in chocolate.
The best part about this cake is cutting it open and sharing it with everyone. The inside is absolutely beautiful and turns out differently each time. If you’ve never made a marble cake before – let this be the first one as this recipe is easy to follow, always turns out tasty and is a real crowd-pleaser. It also makes an excellent choice for gifting during the holiday season, adding a personal touch to your holiday presents.
The chocolate glaze is optional and it can seem intimidating but adding a chocolate glaze to your loaf cake will make it extra special and festive. The chocolate glaze adds a rich, indulgent layer of chocolate flavor that compliments the underlying chocolate and gingerbread slices of the loaf cake. The glaze will also help to seal in moisture, keeping the cake moist and tender. This can be especially beneficial if the cake is stored for a few days or for long journeys/road trips.
In the mood to get an extra homemaker in the kitchen and make your own gingerbread spice blend? It is super easy and only requires a handful of ingredients, follow this recipe and you will have this blend ready for any baking!
Adding spices to this loaf cake is essential for bringing out the gingerbread vibes and making it truly a seasonal dessert. If you cannot get your hands on a classic gingerbread blend or do not have the ingredients to make your own, go to your local grocer and look for one of these:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine warm milk and white vinegar, allowing it to sit and curdle slightly. In another bowl, mix oil, molasses, cane sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugars dissolve.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and gingerbread spice. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the liquid mixture, stirring until just combined.
Melt the dark chocolate and mix it with cocoa powder and warm water to create the chocolate batter. Pour half of the gingerbread batter into the loaf pan, add the chocolate batter on top, and finish with the remaining gingerbread batter. Swirl the batters together using a spatula and bake for 40-50 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
Melt the dark chocolate in the microwave or using a bain-marie until smooth. Stir in the oil until combined. Once the cake has cooled, pour the glaze over the top and let it set at room temperature. The glaze will form a rich, glossy coating that locks in moisture and adds an indulgent touch to every bite.
For an extra festive touch, garnish your cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or decorate with candied ginger slices. You could also sprinkle chopped nuts or add shaved chocolate for added texture and flavor.
Let the loaf cake cool completely before wrapping or storing it to avoid moisture buildup. If you plan to eat the cake within a few days, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to store it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature and enjoy.
This Chocolate Gingerbread Marble Loaf Cake is perfect for any occasion—from holiday parties to cozy afternoons by the fire. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special dessert. You can also enjoy a slice with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
Whether you’re a fan of rich chocolate or love the warming spices of gingerbread, this Chocolate Gingerbread Marble Loaf Cake is the perfect combination of both. With its beautiful marbled effect and indulgent chocolate glaze, this cake is not only delicious but also a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table. Try it for yourself and enjoy the festive flavors in every bite! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out!
