If you’re looking for a cake that’s simple, elegant, and timeless, the Marbled Vanilla and Chocolate Sponge Cake is the perfect choice. With its beautiful swirl of rich cocoa and buttery vanilla, this cake is a visual treat that’s just as delightful to eat. Ideal for afternoon tea, brunch, or as a charming dessert for any gathering, this marbled Bundt cake blends light, fluffy textures with classic flavors that never go out of style.
Whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned home baker, this recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and crowd-pleasing. The best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
🎂 Who is This Recipe For?
This cake is for:
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Home bakers looking to master the basics.
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Families wanting a no-fuss dessert.
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Entertainers who love a visually appealing centerpiece.
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Chocolate and vanilla lovers who can never choose just one flavor.
Its dual-color swirl and moist crumb make it a fantastic bake for birthdays, picnics, potlucks, or a casual weekend treat. It’s a great alternative to overly sweet, frosted cakes — light yet satisfying.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake Batter:
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250 g unsalted butter, room temperature 🧈
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250 g granulated sugar 🍚
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4 large eggs 🥚
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1 tsp vanilla extract 🌿
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300 g all-purpose flour 🌾
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2 tsp baking powder 🧁
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120 ml milk 🥛
For the Chocolate Swirl:
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2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 🍫
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2 tbsp milk 🥄
Equipment:
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24 cm (2.5 L) Bundt pan or ring mold
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Hand or stand mixer
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Mixing bowls
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Sifter
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Spatula
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Toothpick or skewer for swirling
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Wire cooling rack
👩🍳 Instructions: Step-by-Step
1️⃣ Preheat and Prep
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Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
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Grease and flour a 24 cm Bundt pan (or spray with nonstick baking spray). This ensures easy release and that beautiful cake shape.
2️⃣ Cream the Butter and Sugar
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In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light, fluffy, and pale — about 3–5 minutes. This step is key for that airy sponge texture.
3️⃣ Add Eggs and Vanilla
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Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
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Stir in the vanilla extract for that comforting aroma.
4️⃣ Sift and Mix
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Sift the flour and baking powder together.
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Add the flour mixture to the batter in two batches, alternating with the milk. Mix just until combined — do not overmix.
5️⃣ Divide and Flavor
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Divide the batter evenly between two bowls.
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In one half, mix in the cocoa powder and 2 tbsp of milk until fully incorporated. This is your chocolate swirl!
6️⃣ Layer and Swirl
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Spoon the vanilla and chocolate batters alternatingly into the prepared Bundt pan.
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Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the batters gently, creating that signature marbled look.
7️⃣ Bake
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Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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The cake should spring back lightly when touched.
8️⃣ Cool and Unmold
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Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
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Carefully invert it onto a wire rack and cool completely before slicing.
💡 Pro Tips for Success
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Room temperature ingredients are crucial for a smooth batter and even baking.
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Don’t over-swirl — too much mixing will muddy the marble effect. A few gentle strokes are enough.
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If your Bundt pan has intricate designs, make sure you grease every nook and cranny thoroughly.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving upgrades:
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Dust with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
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Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze or melted chocolate for extra flair.
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Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
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Serve with berries or a fruit compote for a summer twist.
☕ What to Serve It With
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Coffee or espresso for an afternoon pick-me-up.
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A glass of cold milk for nostalgic comfort.
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Light dessert wine or chai tea if serving as an after-dinner treat.
🧊 Storage Tips
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Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Refrigerator: Up to 5 days, tightly wrapped. Bring to room temp before serving.
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Freezer: Wrap slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
🔄 Variations and Swaps
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Lemon Vanilla: Replace cocoa with lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
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Almond-Chocolate: Add almond extract to the vanilla portion for a nutty flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
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Mocha Marble: Add a shot of espresso to the chocolate batter.
❓ FAQ
Can I use a loaf pan instead of a Bundt pan?
Yes, just divide the batter between two loaf pans and adjust baking time to 35–40 minutes.
What if I don’t have a mixer?
You can mix by hand, just be sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly for a light texture.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors settle.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is preferred for flavor, but margarine will work in a pinch.
📣 Final Thoughts
The Marbled Vanilla and Chocolate Sponge Cake is a timeless treat that brings joy with every slice. Whether you serve it at brunch, as an afternoon snack, or dress it up for dessert, it never disappoints.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share this post with fellow bakers and subscribe to the blog for more easy, elegant bakes like this.
Happy baking! 🍰✨