prep time: 30 min | bake time: 45 min | total time: 2 hrs
Marble cakes have been around since the dawn of time and there are so many ways to make them. The most classic combination of vanilla and chocolate might be one of my favorites as it just oozes nostalgia and decadence! This Chocolate and Vanilla Marble Cake is truly the best of both worlds, the vanilla’s light and fragrant sweetness swirled with the chocolate’s rich, decadent taste is pure paradise in a bite! I made this recipe totally eggless and vegan as per usual and the whole recipe is adapted to be plant based or just eggless if preferred. The steps are very straight forward and if you want the perfect marble effect I suggest taking your time, enjoying the process and reading all my special tips! This cake is topped with a smooth chocolate buttercream, making it ideal for any celebration or simply to satisfy a sweet craving.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with baking paper. In a large bowl, combine the milk and lemon juice and let it sit for about 15 minutes until it curdles. Next, add the sugar and vanilla extract to the curdled milk mixture, whisking until the sugar dissolves.
In a separate bowl, mix together the dry ingredients (except for the cocoa powder), then gradually add them to the milk mixture, whisking until smooth. Finally, mix in the melted butter until fully incorporated. Pour one-third of the cake batter into a separate bowl.
To make the chocolate paste, combine cocoa powder with hot water, stirring until smooth, then mix it into the reserved batter to create the chocolate portion. Alternate spoonfuls of vanilla and chocolate batter into the prepared cake pans, then use a skewer to swirl and create a marbled pattern. Gently tap the pans to level the batter, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is firm to the touch.
In a mixing bowl fitted with a paddle attachment or using a handheld electric whisk, whip the butter on medium speed until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar in two parts, mixing until smooth and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. Add the cocoa powder, mixing until well combined. Finally, pour in the cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, whipping until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
Once the cake layers have cooled, trim a thin layer from each to ensure they stack evenly. Place a small amount of frosting on the center of your cake stand or serving plate, then add the first cake layer on top. Spread a generous layer of frosting (about 5-6 scoops) over the top of this layer, smoothing it with an offset spatula.
Carefully place the second cake layer on top, aligning it as evenly as possible. Apply a crumb coat by spreading a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to seal in crumbs, then chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set. After the crumb coat is set, apply the final layer of frosting, smoothing the top and sides with an offset spatula or a bench scraper for a clean finish.
If desired, use a piping bag to add rosettes or borders along the top and sides. Chill the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting. Before serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes to enhance the flavors. Enjoy your beautifully marbled vanilla and chocolate cake!
To keep your marble cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to enjoy it within a few days. Be sure to place it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight and heat. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 2-3 days, covering it with plastic wrap or using an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the frosting from drying.
This marble cake is a visual delight, featuring an elegant swirl of vanilla and chocolate that makes it the perfect centrepiece for any occasion. The beautiful contrast of flavors in each slice offers a unique, eye-catching effect that’s sure to impress. Alongside its looks, the classic combination of vanilla and chocolate creates a satisfying taste experience, ensuring each bite is a balanced mix of rich, familiar flavors.
The cake’s light and moist texture, achieved through a carefully balanced recipe, provides a tender crumb and richness that makes it truly unforgettable. Despite its elegant appearance, the recipe is straightforward and approachable for bakers at any level. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to various dietary needs—simply substitute it with dairy-free ingredients to create a vegan-friendly version, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious treat!
To maintain a distinct marbled effect, pour the vanilla and chocolate batters into the pan in alternating dollops, then use a skewer or knife to gently swirl them. Avoid over-mixing, as this can blend the batters together and reduce the marbling.
Use room-temperature ingredients, especially butter and milk, to help create a smooth batter. Avoid over-baking by checking the cake with a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs or be clean to ensure the cake stays moist. Wrap individual cakes in plastic wrap after they have cooled to retain moisture.
It’s best to use room-temperature butter, as it blends better with the other ingredients, creating a smoother and more even batter. Cold butter can make the batter lumpy, which may affect the cake’s texture.
Yes, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a 1:1 substitute for regular flour. For almond flour, however, the texture will be denser, so it’s best to use a combination of almond flour and a gluten-free blend for better results.
Yes, you can make marble cupcakes! Simply fill cupcake liners halfway with vanilla and chocolate batters, swirl gently with a skewer, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Substitute dairy-free milk, vegan butter, and a dairy-free yogurt alternative to make this recipe vegan. Choose a vegan chocolate or cocoa powder for the chocolate batter, and use a dairy-free frosting for the perfect vegan marble cake.
A simple chocolate or vanilla frosting works beautifully, as it complements the marbled flavors without overwhelming them. You could also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a more elegant finish.
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