Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)

Easy marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake) is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of vanilla, chocolate, and a charming pink batter. This visually appealing cake is perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings. Its versatility makes it an ideal dessert for birthdays, holidays, or any sweet occasion. The unique marbling effect not only adds beauty but also creates a lovely blend of flavors in every slice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family gathering, this marble cake will impress your guests.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve delicious results.
• Stunning Visual Appeal: The beautiful swirls of chocolate, vanilla, and pink make this cake a standout centerpiece.
• Versatile Flavor Profile: The combination of flavors caters to different taste preferences—everyone will find something they love!
• Fun to Decorate: You can get creative with the frosting and toppings to match any theme or celebration.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To create this stunning marble cake, it’s important to gather all your tools and prepare your workspace properly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your butter and sugar are whipped together smoothly for the perfect batter consistency.
• Sifter: Helps incorporate air into the flour mixture, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredients

Easy marble cake you can bake any time.

With vanilla, chocolate and a pink-tinged batter swirled together, this single-layer 9-inch cake can be your centrepiece attraction.

For the Cake

• 250g of butter softened
• 275g (1 and 1/4 cups) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla
• 3 eggs
• 335g (2 and 1/4 cups) flour
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
• 180ml (3/4 cup) milk
• 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons of extra milk
• Pink food colouring

For the Butter Icing

• 90g of softened butter
• 160g (1 cup) of icing sugar
• 1 tablespoon of milk
• 2–3 drops of pink colouring

How to Make Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Have all the ingredients, utensils, and appliances ready. Allow the refrigerated ingredients to reach room temperature for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pan

Lightly butter and line the bottom of a 9″ round cake pan. Set aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl. Set aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

Add softened butter to a large bowl. Use your mixer to beat on high speed until smooth. Then add granulated sugar and vanilla extract; beat until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs

Add one egg at a time to the creamed mixture. Combine gently without over-mixing. Scrape down the bowl frequently during this process.

Step 6: Incorporate Flour and Milk

Alternately add dry ingredients and milk into the batter starting with flour. If using a hand mixer, maintain low speed; if using a spatula or whisk, use folding movements.

Step 7: Prepare Colored Batters

In three separate bowls, divide the batter accordingly. One bowl stays plain, one gets pink food coloring until bright pink is achieved, and cocoa mixture is added to another bowl until light chocolate color forms.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 160C (320F).

Step 9: Layer Batters in Cake Pan

Add spoonfuls of each colored batter alternatively into the prepared pan. Use a knife or skewer to swirl them gently for that classic marble effect.

Step 10: Bake

Transfer the pan into the oven and bake for about 50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a skewer at around the 40-minute mark; it should come out clean when done.

Step 11: Cool Cake

Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 15-30 minutes before transferring it onto a cooling rack until completely cool.

Step 12: Make Butter Icing

In another bowl, beat softened butter until light. Sift icing sugar over it while mixing; add milk gradually until smooth frosting forms. Add small drops of pink coloring for aesthetics without fully mixing it in.

Step 13: Frost Cake

Spread frosting evenly over the top of your cooled marble cake. Chill for about 10 minutes before serving so that icing sets slightly.

Enjoy your beautiful marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake) with friends and family!

How to Serve Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)

Marble cake is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s for a birthday celebration or an afternoon tea, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

For Birthdays

• Decorate with Sprinkles: Top the marble cake with colorful sprinkles for a festive look.
• Add Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries for a fresh and tangy contrast.

With Ice Cream

• Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combination of warm marble cake and cold vanilla ice cream is always a hit.
• Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of chocolate sauce over a slice adds richness and enhances the flavors.

Afternoon Tea

• Slice with Tea: Enjoy slices of marble cake alongside your favorite tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes each bite even more indulgent.

How to Perfect Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)

Achieving the perfect marble cake requires some careful attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when combining ingredients, especially after adding the flour, to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Use Quality Cocoa Powder: Choose high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor in the batter.
• Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven to the right temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.

Best Side Dishes for Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)

To complement the rich flavors of marble cake, consider pairing it with these delicious side dishes. Each option brings something unique to the table.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fresh fruits enhances texture and flavor contrast.
3. Chocolate Mousse: A light chocolate mousse provides a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will enjoy.
4. Nutty Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars add a satisfying texture that pairs well with soft marble cake.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee complements the sweetness while enhancing the flavors of chocolate and vanilla.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to sweet marble cake, creating an interesting palate experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking a marble cake, there are several common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to ensure your Neopolitan single-layer cake turns out perfectly.

• Skipping ingredient preparation: Not letting refrigerated ingredients reach room temperature can lead to uneven mixing. Always allow butter and eggs to sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Over-mixing the batter: Mixing too vigorously can result in a dense cake. Mix just until combined, especially after adding eggs and flour.
• Improperly measuring flour: Using too much flour leads to a dry cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Not checking oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or cold will affect baking time. Invest in an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Neglecting cooling time: Cutting into a cake that isn’t fully cooled can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool for at least 15-30 minutes before transferring.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake) in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)

• Oven: Preheat to 160°C (320°F) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming the slices for around 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake) that might help you as you bake.

How do I achieve a perfect swirl in my marble cake?

To create an attractive swirl, alternate spoonfuls of each colored batter and use a knife or skewer gently. Don’t over-swirl; just enough to blend without losing definition.

Can I use different flavors other than chocolate?

Absolutely! You can swap cocoa powder for any flavor extract you like, such as almond or lemon, to customize your marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake).

What if my marble cake is dry?

A dry marble cake may be due to over-baking or too much flour. Always check with a toothpick and keep an eye on baking time.

How do I make my pink batter more vibrant?

Add small amounts of pink food coloring incrementally until you reach your desired shade, ensuring not to over-mix the batter afterward.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking, maintaining the same measurements.

Final Thoughts

This easy marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake) is not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different flavors or colors based on your preferences. It’s perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a delightful treat at home. Try it out today and impress your friends and family!