Marble Cake

1. Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or two 8-inch round pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

2. Make the Chocolate Batter

1. In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder with hot water until smooth.
2. Remove 1 cup of the vanilla batter and stir in the cocoa mixture to create the chocolate batter.

3. Create the Marble Effect

1. Spoon the vanilla and chocolate batters alternately into the prepared pan(s).
2. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the batters together gently, creating a marbled effect.

4. Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 50–60 minutes (loaf pan) or 30–35 minutes (round pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Glaze or Frosting

• Drizzle with chocolate ganache or a simple powdered sugar glaze for an extra touch of sweetness!

Would you like a recipe for a glaze or ideas for customizing the marble swirls with other flavors, like mocha or caramel? 😊