**Ingredients**
For the Cake:
– **Butter**: 200g, unsalted and softened
– **Sugar**: 180g
– **Eggs**: 4 large
– **Cake Flour**: 200g
– **Baking Powder**: 1 teaspoon
– **Milk**: 60ml
– **Pandan Paste**: 2 teaspoons (adjust to taste for a stronger flavor)
– **Cocoa Powder**: 2 tablespoons, sifted
– **Vanilla Extract**: 1 teaspoon
– **Salt**: 1/4 teaspoon
**Instructions**
**1. Preparation:**
1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Grease and line a loaf pan or an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
**2. Making the Batter:**
1. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
2. **Add the Eggs**: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Ensure that the mixture is well combined and smooth.
3. **Sift in the Dry Ingredients**: Sift the cake flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
4. **Divide the Batter**: Divide the batter into two equal portions.
– **Pandan Batter**: To one portion, add the pandan paste and mix until the batter is evenly colored.
– **Chocolate Batter**: To the other portion, add the sifted cocoa powder and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
**3. Creating the Marble Effect:**
1. **Layer the Batter**: Spoon the pandan and chocolate batters alternately into the prepared pan. For the best effect, place the batters on top of each other in large spoonfuls, allowing the batters to overlap.
2. **Swirl the Batter**: Use a skewer or a knife to create swirls by dragging it through the batters in a zigzag motion. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to maintain the distinct swirls of color.
**4. Baking the Cake:**
1. **Bake**: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. **Cool**: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. **Serve**: Slice and serve the cake, showcasing the beautiful marble pattern.
**Benefits**
– **Rich in Antioxidants**: Cocoa powder is known to be high in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body.
– **Unique Flavor**: Pandan adds a distinct flavor that is refreshing and aromatic, appealing to those who enjoy tropical tastes.
– **Visual Appeal**: The marble effect makes this cake an attractive addition to any dessert table.
**Formation**
This cake forms a beautiful swirl pattern due to the alternating layers of pandan and chocolate batters. The swirling technique is key to achieving the marbled effect, which not only looks impressive but also gives each bite a unique combination of flavors.
**Conclusion**
Pandan Chocolate Marble Cake is a stunning and delicious dessert that brings together the best of both worlds: the fragrant, tropical essence of pandan and the rich, comforting taste of chocolate. It’s a versatile cake that can be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, served at gatherings, or even as a special treat for yourself. The combination of colors and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both the eyes and the palate.
**Lovers of Pandan Chocolate Marble Cake**
This cake is particularly beloved in Southeast Asia, where pandan is a common ingredient in sweets. However, its appeal is universal, attracting anyone who enjoys a moist, flavorful cake with a beautiful presentation. It’s a favorite among home bakers who love experimenting with flavors and those who appreciate desserts that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
**Nutritional Information** (per serving, based on 10 servings)
– **Calories**: 290 kcal
– **Protein**: 4g
– **Carbohydrates**: 35g
– **Fat**: 15g
– **Saturated Fat**: 9g
– **Sugar**: 20g
– **Fiber**: 1g
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This Pandan Chocolate Marble Cake is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Enjoy this delightful dessert with loved ones or as a special indulgence for yourself!