Chocolate Vanilla Marble Cake: A Classic and Delicious Recipe

Chocolate vanilla marble cake is a timeless favorite loved by all ages. With its delicious layers of rich chocolate and sweet vanilla, it’s perfect for an afternoon snack, a dessert, or even as a treat with coffee or tea.

Today, I’m sharing my homemade recipe that is simple, quick to make, and guarantees a wonderfully moist cake.

Prep & Bake Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Batter:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 9 tablespoons (1 stick + 1 tbsp) melted butter (or vegetable oil for a dairy-free version)
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Swirl:

• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons additional milk

How to Make Chocolate-Vanilla Marble Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the melted butter (or oil) and milk, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, folding gently with a spatula to avoid overmixing.

Step 2: Divide the Batter

1. Split the batter evenly into two separate bowls.
2. In the first bowl, stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In the second bowl, mix in the cocoa powder and extra milk, stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Create the Marble Effect

1. Alternately spoon the vanilla and chocolate batters into the prepared loaf pan.
2. Once all the batter is in, use a knife or skewer to gently swirl through the layers to create a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.
2. Check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick in the center—it should come out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Nutrition Per Serving

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 36g

Ingredient Benefits

• Flour: Provides complex carbohydrates for long-lasting energy.
• Eggs: A great source of protein and essential vitamins like B12.
• Butter (or oil): Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
• Cocoa Powder: Packed with antioxidants and a comforting chocolate flavor.
• Vanilla: A natural aroma with soothing properties.

Zoé’s Tips

• For an extra moist cake: Replace half of the milk with plain yogurt for a softer texture.
• For a defined marble pattern: Avoid overmixing the two batters in the pan—just a few swirls with a skewer are enough.
• Dairy-free option: Use vegetable oil instead of butter and almond or soy milk instead of regular milk.
• Extra indulgence: Add chocolate chips to the chocolate batter for a richer taste.

Best Pairings for Chocolate Vanilla Marble Cake

• Earl Grey Tea or Black Coffee: Perfect for an afternoon break.
• Vanilla or Chocolate Ice Cream: Turns it into a decadent dessert.
• Berry Sauce: A drizzle of raspberry or strawberry coulis adds a refreshing contrast.

Variations of Chocolate Vanilla Marble Cake Recipe

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a blend of gluten-free flour to substitute all-purpose flour.
• White Chocolate & Matcha Swirl: Swap the chocolate batter for a matcha tea version for a unique flavor.
• Hazelnut Marble Cake: Add hazelnut spread to the chocolate batter for a nutty twist.
• Orange Marble Cake: Mix in orange zest with the vanilla batter for a citrusy touch.

This chocolate-vanilla marble cake is a timeless, easy-to-make treat that blends simplicity with indulgence. Whether for a cozy afternoon snack or a sweet treat with coffee, this cake is always a hit.

Give it a try, get creative with variations, and enjoy a homemade classic!

Happy baking!