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Chocolate vanilla swirl cake on wooden table
ChefMaster Emily

Chocolate Vanilla Swirl Cake

A soft, moist, and tender cake that combines rich chocolate and creamy vanilla in a beautiful marbled pattern—perfect for celebrations or cozy afternoons.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all‑purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
Chocolate Batter
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder unsweetened
Final Wet Addition
  • 1 cup milk room temperature

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Loaf or bundt pan
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Knife for swirling

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf or bundt pan and line with parchment if desired.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
  6. Divide the batter into two equal parts. Stir the cocoa powder into one half until fully incorporated.
  7. Spoon alternating dollops of vanilla and chocolate batters into your prepared pan. Use a knife to make 3–4 gentle swirls for a marbled effect.
  8. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Don’t over‑swirl; a few figure‑eight motions give the best marbling. Use room‑temperature ingredients for even mixing. Optionally drizzle a thin glaze or serve with berries or ice cream.