
Vanilla & Chocolate Marble Pound Cake
There is something nostalgic about a marble cake. The simple swirl of vanilla and chocolate creates a beautiful pattern, making every slice slightly different from the last.
This vanilla and chocolate marble pound cake combines a rich buttery crumb with the comforting flavours of vanilla and cocoa. It is perfect for an afternoon coffee, a weekend bake, or simply when you want something classic and unfussy.
Ingredients
For the cake
- 200g unsalted butter, softened
- 200g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 200g plain flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 20g cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (fan 150°C). Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin.
- Beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift together the flour and baking powder, then gently fold into the mixture.
- Divide the batter equally between two bowls.
- Leave one bowl as the vanilla batter.
- In the second bowl, mix the cocoa powder and milk until smooth, then fold into the batter.
- Alternate spoonfuls of vanilla and chocolate batter into the loaf tin.
- Use a skewer or knife to gently swirl the mixtures together to create a marble effect.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes
- Avoid over-mixing when creating the marble pattern; a few gentle swirls will give the best effect.
- The cake keeps well in an airtight container for up to three days.
- For a richer chocolate flavour, replace part of the cocoa powder with melted dark chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy a slice with coffee or tea, or lightly dust the top with icing sugar before serving.
Simple, buttery, and beautifully marbled, this cake is one of those timeless bakes that never goes out of style.


