Ingredients:
- 250g all-purpose wheat flour
- 125g unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 4 large eggs (separated)
- 150g granulated sugar
- 15g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 50ml whole milk
- 1 pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9-inch loaf pan or round cake pan with butter and dust lightly with flour. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender crumb!
4. Add Eggs: Add 3 egg yolks and 1 whole egg to the butter mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Save the remaining 3 egg whites for later.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Milk: Alternately add the flour mixture and milk to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
6. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate clean bowl, whisk the 3 reserved egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
7. Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter using a spatula, ensuring not to deflate the air.
8. Create the Marbling Effect: Divide the batter evenly into two bowls. Add the cocoa powder to one bowl and mix until fully incorporated. Alternately spoon the plain and chocolate batters into the prepared pan. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batters together, creating a marbled pattern.
9. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy Your Masterpiece: Slice and serve this stunning marbled cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s perfect for any occasion!
