Marble cake with blueberries and raisins

Marble Cake with Blueberries and Raisins

Get ready to delight your senses with a delicious and easy-to-make recipe: marble cake with blueberries and raisins. This dessert is not only a perfect treat for breakfast or a sweet snack alongside coffee, but it’s also a true joy for your taste buds, thanks to its fluffy texture and the delightful combination of fruits. Whether you are a beginner cook or an expert in the kitchen, this recipe will provide you with the satisfaction of achieving an extraordinary result, and we will guide you step by step to create the perfect cake!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 8-10 slices

Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 3 tablespoons oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 cup (200 ml) sugar
- 5 tablespoons water
- 1 cup (the same) of flour + 1 tablespoon, if needed
- 10 g baking powder
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- Juice of one lemon
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla extract (or a vanilla pod)
- 150 g blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 100 g raisins
- 50 ml rum (to soak the raisins)

Brief History:

Marble cake is a classic recipe cherished by generations, which has evolved over time. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but the idea of combining two types of batter to create a marbled effect has always been appealing. This recipe blends tradition with innovation, allowing you to experiment with various flavors and ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion.

Step by Step:

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients you will use. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as they will whip better. If you are using frozen blueberries, let them thaw and drain well. Soak the raisins in rum for about 15 minutes to make them juicier.

Step 2: Separate the eggs
Separating the eggs is an essential step for achieving a fluffy cake. In a bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. This step will ensure the cake is airy.

Step 3: Prepare the sugar syrup
In a small saucepan, mix the sugar with the 5 tablespoons of water and the lemon juice. Place over medium heat and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture becomes a light syrup.

Step 4: Combine the ingredients
Pour the hot syrup over the beaten egg whites and continue to beat until the mixture becomes glossy and firm. Then add the egg yolks mixed with the 3 tablespoons of oil and the vanilla extract. Mix well.

Step 5: Add the flour and baking powder
Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually fold it into the mixture, gently mixing with a spatula to avoid deflating the egg whites. If the batter is too soft, add an additional tablespoon of flour to achieve a denser consistency.

Step 6: Prepare the cocoa mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the cocoa powder with a tablespoon of warm water to create a paste. Take a portion of the prepared batter and mix it with the cocoa paste, thus forming a chocolate batter.

Step 7: Assemble the cake
In a loaf pan lined with parchment paper, alternately add the white batter and the cocoa batter to form layers. Sprinkle the drained blueberries and raisins between the layers, then use a fork to gently swirl the batter in a zig-zag pattern to create the marbled effect.

Step 8: Bake
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

Step 9: Cool and serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. Cut into thick slices and serve with a cup of coffee or warm milk. It’s perfect for breakfast but also as a dessert for a gathering with friends.

Practical Tips:
- Alternative flavors: You can experiment with various flavors such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or even orange zest to customize the cake to your taste.
- Storing the cake: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture. It can also be enjoyed the next day when the flavors have melded even better.
- Variations: Instead of blueberries and raisins, try other fruits such as raspberries, strawberries, or even dark chocolate chunks for a more decadent taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or almond flour, but the texture of the cake will change. Experiment with the amounts to achieve the desired result.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar by 20-30%, but be careful not to affect the texture.

3. Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring to add a binding agent such as xanthan gum.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This marble cake recipe has approximately 220 calories per slice (depending on size and ingredients used). Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, while raisins provide an energy boost due to their fructose content. Additionally, eggs offer essential proteins, and the oil contributes healthy fatty acids.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every step of the process! The marble cake with blueberries and raisins will surely make you fall in love with cooking and celebrate every sweet moment in your life. Bon appétit!