Moist Marble Cake Like Grandma's (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the vanilla batter

01 - 2 sticks + 1 tablespoon (250g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
02 - 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 packet vanilla sugar
04 - 4 large eggs, at room temperature
05 - 2½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
06 - 3 teaspoons baking powder
07 - 3½ tablespoons (50ml) milk

→ For the chocolate batter

08 - ¼ cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
09 - 1 tablespoon (15g) granulated sugar
10 - 3½ tablespoons (50ml) milk

→ For pan & decoration

11 - Butter for greasing the pan
12 - Dark chocolate for glazing (optional)
13 - Chocolate shavings for topping (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer). Add the eggs one at a time, beating for 30 seconds after each addition. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder, then sift this mixture into the butter mixture. Stir just until combined, then mix in the milk until smooth.
02 - Grease a 9x5 inch (30x10 cm) loaf pan. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
03 - Add the cocoa powder, additional sugar, and milk to the remaining vanilla batter. Mix until well combined and no streaks remain. Pour this chocolate batter over the vanilla layer in the pan. Use a fork to create a marbled effect by gently swirling the batters together - don't overmix if you want distinct marbling.
04 - Bake in a preheated oven at 320°F (160°C) fan/convection or 350°F (180°C) conventional for 50-55 minutes. Test with a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center - it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
05 - Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, drizzle with melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with chocolate shavings, or simply dust with powdered sugar before serving.

# Notes:

01 - All ingredients should be at room temperature for the best texture and rise.
02 - Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking at 45 minutes.