Marble Cake (Tray Bake Style) – Complete Step-by-Step Recipe

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  • April 17, 2026
Breakfast

This Marble Cake is the perfect combination of vanilla and chocolate in one beautiful swirl. It’s soft, buttery, and visually stunning—ideal for tea time, dessert, or even special occasions.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup (200g) sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons hot water

 

 

 

 

👩‍🍳 Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Grease a rectangular tray (or line with parchment paper)

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:

  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar

  • Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes)
  • This step creates a soft texture

Step 4: Add Eggs & Vanilla

  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each
  • Add vanilla extract

Step 5: Add Milk & Dry Mix

  • Gradually add dry ingredients and milk alternately
  • Mix until smooth (do not overmix)

Step 6: Make Chocolate Batter

  • Take about 1/3 of the batter in a separate bowl
  • Mix cocoa powder with hot water to form a paste
  • Add this to the separated batter and mix well

Step 7: Create Marble Effect

  • Pour vanilla batter into the tray
  • Add chocolate batter on top in random spots
  • Use a knife or skewer to swirl gently (don’t overdo it)

Step 8: Bake

  • Bake for 30–40 minutes
  • Check with a toothpick (should come out clean)

Step 9: Cool & Serve

  • Let the cake cool completely
  • Slice and enjoy the beautiful marble pattern 🎉

 

 

 

 

 

🍰 Pro Tips for Perfect Marble Cake

  • Don’t over-swirl or you’ll lose the pattern
  • Use room temperature ingredients
  • Measure flour correctly for best texture
  • Bake in the center rack for even cooking

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why is my marble pattern not visible?

You may have overmixed the batters. Swirl lightly for best results.

2. Can I use chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, melt chocolate and mix it into the batter instead.

3. How do I keep the cake moist?

Do not overbake and store properly in an airtight container.

4. Can I turn this into cupcakes?

Yes! Bake for 18–22 minutes at the same temperature.

5. How to store marble cake?

  • Room temperature: 2–3 days
  • Fridge: up to 1 week

6. Can I freeze it?

Yes! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

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