Marble Tea Cake

 There’s something so comforting about a slice of marble cake and this Marble Tea Cake is one of those simple bakes that never gets old. It’s easy to make, uses ingredients you probably already have and somehow feels a little fancy without trying too hard. Whether it’s for tea time, a quick treat, or just because you need a break , this cake gets you.

It’s simple enough for everyday baking but elegant enough to serve guests. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and gives beautiful, bakery style results. Let’s dive in.

Ingredients

• Margarine or Butter – 200g (I used margarine. If using unsalted butter, add salt below.)

• Sugar – 200g

• Eggs – 200g (without shell) or 3 large 

       •    Vanilla Flavour– ¾ teaspoon 

• All-purpose flour – 200g

• Baking powder –  ¾ teaspoon

• Salt –  ¾ teaspoon (only if using unsalted butter)

• Milk – 1/3  cup

For the Marble Effect:

• Cocoa powder – 2 tablespoon 

• Hot water – 1 and half tablespoon

Instructions:

*Sift the flour and baking powder into a bowl and set aside.

*In a separate bowl, beat the margarine until light and fluffy.

*Add the sugar gradually to the creamed margarine, mixing until the mixture becomes light and well combined.

*Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

*Stir in the vanilla flavour and mix until incorporated.

*Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the milk. Do this in three batches. Start with the milk and end with the flour.

*Once the batter is fully mixed, divide it into two equal parts. (Half of the batter should weigh about 425g.)

*In a small bowl, combine the cocoa powder with hot water to form a smooth paste. Mix this into half of the batter measured to create the chocolate portion.

*Line your baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly. Spoon both batters alternately into the pan, layering them into the center so they spread outward.

*Use a skewer or knife to swirl gently through the batter in circular motions to create a marbled effect. Avoid overmixing. Just a few swirls are enough.

*Bake in a preheated oven at 150°C for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack or tray to cool completely.