1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Mix the Batter
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1/2 cup milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
3. Prepare the Marble Effect
- Divide the Batter: Divide the batter evenly between two bowls.
- Add Cocoa Powder: In one of the bowls, stir in 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder until the batter is well combined and chocolatey.
- Marble the Batter: Drop spoonfuls of both the vanilla and chocolate batters alternately into the prepared cake pan. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batters together, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to over-swirl; you want to maintain the distinct marble pattern.
4. Bake the Cake
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Dust with Powdered Sugar (Optional): Once the cake is completely cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant touch.
- Add Toppings (Optional): Serve with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
- Enjoy: Slice and enjoy the soft, fluffy texture and the delightful marbled appearance of this economical marble cake!
Tips for Perfection
- Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Marbling Technique: Don’t overmix the batters when swirling; a few gentle swirls will create a nice marble effect.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Conclusion
Economical Marble Cake is a wonderful example of how a simple recipe can deliver extraordinary results. With its soft, light texture and beautiful marble effect, this cake is sure to be a hit whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just enjoying it with a cup of tea. Easy to make and easy on the wallet, this marble cake proves that great flavor doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Enjoy every delightful bite!