Chocolate Marble Bread

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Chocolate Marble Bread

Soft, fluffy, and beautifully swirled – this Chocolate Marble Bread is the perfect combination of moist vanilla and rich chocolate in every slice.

If you’re looking for a cake that’s both stunning and easy to make, this classic marble loaf is the answer. It’s buttery and tender with just the right balance between sweet vanilla and deep chocolate flavors. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon tea, this is a timeless bake you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the sour cream (or yogurt), this cake stays soft and fluffy for days.
  • Gorgeous Swirls: The simple marbling technique creates a bakery-style presentation.
  • One Loaf, Two Flavors: You get both chocolate and vanilla in every bite—no need to choose!
  • Freezer-Friendly: Bake now, enjoy later. This loaf freezes beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Swirl:

  • 4 oz (115 g) semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons hot coffee or water

For the Vanilla Cake Batter:

  • 1 1/2 cups + 2 tbsp (195 g) cake flour, sifted (or substitute with all-purpose flour if needed)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, room temperature

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. For best results, brush melted butter into the corners and bottom for added flavor. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Mixture

In a heatproof bowl, combine the chopped chocolate and coffee (or water). Place the bowl over a saucepan of gently simmering water (double boiler method). Stir until smooth and melted. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), beat the butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth. Add the sugar and beat for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and beat until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 6: Add Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream

With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture in three additions, alternating with the sour cream in two additions. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined – do not overmix.

Step 7: Create the Marble Effect

Transfer slightly less than half of the batter into a separate bowl. Stir in the melted chocolate until fully incorporated.

Using two spoons, alternate dollops of vanilla and chocolate batter into the prepared loaf pan. (e.g., vanilla, chocolate, vanilla…) Once all the batter is in the pan, run a skewer or knife gently through the batter in a swirling motion to create a marbled pattern. Do not overmix.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 9: Cool

Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then, run a knife or spatula along the edges and gently lift the loaf out. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Helpful Tips

  • No sour cream? Use plain full-fat yogurt instead.
  • Want it extra chocolatey? Add chocolate chips to the chocolate batter before swirling.
  • Even layers: Use an ice cream scoop to portion batter evenly and consistently.

Serve With

  • A dusting of powdered sugar
  • A drizzle of chocolate or vanilla glaze
  • Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream

This Chocolate Marble Bread is a delightful treat that feels elegant yet homely. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just for yourself, it’s sure to impress with its beauty and taste.

 

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