Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)
Easy marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake) is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of vanilla, chocolate, and a whimsical pink batter. This single-layer cake is not just visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion—from birthday parties to casual gatherings. The unique swirl pattern and vibrant colors make this cake a centerpiece attraction that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Visually Stunning: The beautiful swirls of chocolate, vanilla, and pink batter create an eye-catching dessert.
- Versatile Delight: Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even beginner bakers can create this delicious cake.
- Flavor Explosion: A delightful mix of flavors—rich chocolate, smooth vanilla, and sweet pink—that everyone will love.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust colors and flavors to suit your preferences or occasion.

Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, prepare all your tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating the perfect marble cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Round cake pan (9-inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sifter
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Round Cake Pan: Ensures even baking and creates the perfect shape for your marble cake.
- Electric Mixer: Saves time and helps achieve the desired fluffy texture in the batter.
- Sifter: Removes lumps from dry ingredients, ensuring a smooth batter for your cake.
Ingredients
Easy marble cake you can bake any time.
With vanilla, chocolate and a pink-tinged batter swirled together, this single-layer 9-inch cake can be your centerpiece attraction.
For the Marble Cake
- 250g of butter softened
- 275g (1 and 1/4 cups) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla
- 3 eggs
- 335g (2 and 1/4 cups) flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
- 180ml (3/4 cup) milk
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons of extra milk
- Pink food coloring
For the Butter Icing
- 90g of softened butter
- 160g (1 cup) of icing sugar
- 1 tablespoon of milk
- 2-3 drops of pink coloring
How to Make Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Have all the ingredients, utensils, and appliances ready for a seamless baking process.
- Allow refrigerated ingredients to come to room temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Pan
- Lightly butter and line the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a large bowl. Set aside.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, add softened butter. Use an electric mixer on high speed to beat until smooth.
- Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Incorporate Eggs
- Add one egg at a time into the cream mixture.
- Combine gently without over-mixing to maintain airiness in the batter.
Step 6: Alternate Dry Ingredients with Milk
- Gradually add flour mixture and milk into the batter.
- Start with flour first; end with flour while mixing at low speed or using folding techniques if mixing manually.
Step 7: Color Your Batter
- Prepare three bowls with spoons for separating batters.
- Warm 2 tablespoons of milk in one bowl; mix cocoa powder into it until combined.
- Separate your main batter into three bowls—two equal portions remain plain while one contains less batter.
- Color one portion bright pink with food coloring; mix cocoa mixture into the third bowl until light chocolate color forms.
Step 8: Create Your Marble Design
- Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Alternate spoonfuls of each colored batter in the prepared pan; ensure contrasting layers are placed for swirling effect.
- Use a knife or skewer to create swirls in the batter.
Step 9: Bake
- Transfer the pan into the oven; bake for approximately 50 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean when tested in the center.
Step 10: Cool Down
- Once baked, remove from oven; cool for about 15–30 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Allow it to cool completely before frosting.
Step 11: Prepare Butter Icing
- Beat softened butter in a bowl until light in texture.
- Sift icing sugar into butter; mix well until combined.
- Add milk gradually while beating until smooth frosting forms.
- Swirl in small drops of pink coloring without fully mixing for streaks.
Step 12: Frost Your Cake
- Spread icing evenly over cooled marble cake’s top after chilling it for about 10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your deliciously vibrant marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake) as you celebrate any occasion!
How to Serve Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)
Serving marble cake is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Whether it’s for a birthday party or a casual afternoon treat, there are various ways to make this marble cake shine as the centerpiece of your dessert table.
With Fresh Berries
- Adding fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provides a burst of flavor and a beautiful contrast to the cake’s colors.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The creaminess complements the moist texture of the marble cake perfectly.
Drizzled Chocolate Sauce
- A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the top adds richness and enhances the chocolate notes of your marble cake.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream can elevate your marble cake. Pipe it onto each slice for an elegant touch.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- A simple dusting of powdered sugar gives your marble cake an elegant finish without overwhelming its flavors.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee or tea makes for a comforting treat. The warmth of the beverage enhances the flavors in the cake.
How to Perfect Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)
To achieve the perfect marble cake, attention to detail during preparation is essential. Follow these tips for guaranteed success.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining flour and liquid ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
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Swirling Technique: Use a knife or skewer gently for swirling; too much swirling may blend colors instead of creating distinct layers.
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Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven properly and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.
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Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely on a rack before frosting. This prevents melting and sliding of the icing.
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Frosting Consistency: Ensure your buttercream is smooth and spreadable. If too stiff, add a tiny bit more milk until you reach desired consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)
Pairing side dishes with your marble cake can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors perfectly.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that adds brightness and balance to the richness of the marble cake.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.
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Chocolate Fondue: Dipping pieces of marble cake into warm chocolate fondue creates an indulgent treat perfect for sharing.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce offers another layer of sweetness and pairs well with both chocolate and vanilla flavors in the cake.
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Nut Brittle: Crunchy nut brittle provides textural contrast, making each bite exciting while adding complexity to your dessert table.
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Custard Sauce: Serving with warm custard enhances moisture and flavor, making every slice even more delightful to enjoy.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These rich bars offer additional texture and flavor depth that works nicely alongside slices of marble cake.
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Coffee Cake Bites: Small bites of coffee-flavored cakes provide an interesting twist while keeping in line with dessert themes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a marble cake can be delightful, but some common errors can affect the outcome. Here are mistakes to watch out for:
- Not preparing ingredients properly: Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a smooth batter.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Gently fold the ingredients together to maintain the cake’s light texture.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated accurately. An oven thermometer is helpful for ensuring proper baking conditions.
- Poor swirling technique: Swirling should be done gently to create beautiful marbling without completely mixing the colors. Use a skewer or knife for best results.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow your cake to cool before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a better presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake) in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)
- Wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze them for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)
- Oven: Preheat to 160°C (320°F) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 10-15 seconds or until warm, being careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a covered skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about marble cake that may help you with your baking journey!
What is Marble Cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)?
Marble cake is a delightful dessert that features both vanilla and chocolate flavors swirled together, creating a beautiful pattern.
How can I customize my Marble Cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake)?
You can add flavors like almond or lemon extract, or even mix in nuts or fruits to enhance the taste according to your preference.
Can I use different colors in my Marble Cake?
Absolutely! You can use any food coloring that suits your theme. Just remember to swirl it gently for an attractive marbled effect.
What should I serve with my Marble Cake?
This charming dessert pairs well with whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!
Final Thoughts
This easy marble cake(Neopolitan single-layer cake) is not only visually stunning but also offers delicious flavors that appeal to everyone. Feel free to customize it with various colors and flavors, making it perfect for any occasion!
Marble Cake (Neapolitan single-layer cake)
Indulge in the delightful experience of making a Marble Cake (Neapolitan single-layer cake). This vibrant dessert beautifully combines the flavors of rich chocolate, smooth vanilla, and a playful pink batter, creating a visually stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual afternoon treat, this easy-to-make cake is sure to impress your guests. With its unique swirl pattern and delectable taste, every slice will bring joy to your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 250g softened butter
- 275g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 eggs
- 335g all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 180ml milk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- Pink food coloring
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and prepare a greased 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and set aside.
- Cream softened butter with sugar and vanilla until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and milk alternately until just combined.
- Divide the batter into three bowls; color one pink and mix cocoa into another.
- Spoon alternating dollops of each batter into the pan, swirl gently with a knife.
- Bake for about 50 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Allow to cool before frosting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg