Soft & Moist Marble Cake Recipe – Easy Homemade Dessert Idea
This soft and moist marble cake recipe combines rich chocolate and vanilla flavors in a fluffy, swirled loaf. A timeless homemade dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or a sweet treat anytime.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course Dessert, Tea Time Treat
Cuisine German (origin), Global/Western Baking
Servings 10 slices.
Calories 280 kcal
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup (120ml) milk or yogurt
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (or 50g melted chocolate)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Prepare vanilla batter: Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in flour, baking powder, salt, and milk. Stir in vanilla.
Make chocolate batter: Transfer ⅓ of vanilla batter to a separate bowl. Mix in cocoa powder or melted chocolate.
Layer batters: Alternate spoonfuls of vanilla and chocolate batter in a greased pan.
Swirl: Use a skewer or knife to gently swirl batters for a marble effect.
Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–50 minutes, until golden and springy. A toothpick should come out clean.
Cool: Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
Serve: Slice to reveal swirls. Dust with powdered sugar or glaze if desired.
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Butter vs. oil: Butter adds flavor; oil increases moisture. A mix works well.
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Cocoa vs. chocolate: Cocoa gives lighter flavor; melted chocolate adds richness.
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Swirling tip: Don’t over-swirl—keep patterns distinct.
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Storage: Keep in airtight container for 3 days; freeze slices up to 2 months.
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Variations: Add coffee for depth, lemon zest for brightness, or nuts for texture.
Keyword chocolate vanilla swirl cake, easy homemade cake, marble cake recipe, soft moist cake