Chocolate Marble Cake

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## **Instructions**

### **Step 1: Prepare the Oven & Pan**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan. Alternatively, you can line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

### **Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients**
1. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

### **Step 3: Cream the Butter & Sugar**
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

### **Step 4: Add Eggs & Vanilla**
1. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract.

### **Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients & Milk**
1. Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. The batter should be smooth and creamy.

### **Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Batter**
1. In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder with the hot water to form a smooth chocolate paste.
2. Divide the batter in half. Add the chocolate paste to one half and stir until fully incorporated.

### **Step 7: Create the Marble Effect**
1. Spoon alternating dollops of vanilla and chocolate batter into the prepared pan.
2. Using a butter knife or skewer, gently swirl the two batters together to create a marble effect. Be careful not to overmix; you want distinct swirls!

### **Step 8: Bake**
1. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

### **Step 9: Serve & Enjoy**
1. Once cooled, slice and serve! If desired, dust the top with powdered sugar or top with a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra indulgence.

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## **Serving Suggestions**
🍦 **With Ice Cream** – Serve a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
🍓 **With Berries** – Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
🍫 **With Ganache** – Drizzle warm chocolate ganache on top for a rich, decadent finish.

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## **Storage & Reheating Tips**
– **Store** leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
– **Freeze** for up to 3 months—wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours.
– **Reheat** individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fresh slice.

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## **Final Thoughts**
**Chocolate Marble Cake** is the perfect balance of rich, chocolaty goodness and light, fluffy vanilla. It’s a show-stopping dessert that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or simply as a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.

What do you think? Would you add any special flavors or fillings to make this cake your own? 😊