Description
This Double Chocolate Ricotta Marble Cake offers a delightful twist on classic marble cake by incorporating creamy ricotta cheese and a rich chocolate swirl. Moist and tender with a beautiful marbled effect, it’s perfect for dessert or a special occasion treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
Chocolate
- 3 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and cocoa.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to emulsify. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture in portions, alternating with ricotta cheese and milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients to maintain batter consistency.
- Create Chocolate Batter: Divide the batter evenly into two bowls. Mix the melted semi-sweet chocolate thoroughly into one half to form the chocolate batter.
- Layer and Marble Batter: Spoon alternating dollops of chocolate and plain batter into the prepared cake pan. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batters, creating the signature marble effect without overmixing.
- Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the batter for added texture and chocolate bursts.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring the cake sets well and is easier to slice.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and better rise.
- If you prefer a stronger chocolate flavor, increase the cocoa powder by 1-2 tablespoons.
- The optional chocolate chips add extra texture, but the cake is delicious even without them.
- Make sure not to over-swirl the batters to maintain a distinct marble look.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.