Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup hot water
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch loaf pan
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
6. In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder and hot water until smooth.
7. Take 1/3 of the batter and mix it with the cocoa mixture.
8. Pour half of the plain batter into the prepared pan, followed by the cocoa batter, and then the remaining plain batter.
9. Use a knife to swirl the batter together to create a marble effect.
10. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan and transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 410
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 125mg
Sodium: 210mg
Carbohydrates: 51g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 33g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with cake flour.
- Whole milk can be substituted with any milk of your choice.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder can be substituted with Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture.
- Use food coloring to create a rainbow marble effect.
- Add a tablespoon of instant coffee to the cocoa mixture for a mocha flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
- Use a toothpick or cake tester to check if the cake is done.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
Storage instructions:
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the cake in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the cake on a cake stand and dust with powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Top with whipped cream and fresh berries.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
Fresh fruit salad or a side of vanilla ice cream.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cake is too dry, try adding a tablespoon of sour cream to the batter.
- If the cake is too wet, try reducing the amount of milk used.
- If the cake is not rising, make sure the baking powder is fresh.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment before starting. Make sure the cake is fully cooked before serving.
Food history:
Butter cake is a classic American dessert that dates back to the 19th century. The marble effect was popularized in the 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
The cake has a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of chocolate.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the cake as a dessert or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
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