Topping: Rich chocolate ganache

Introduction

Transport yourself back in time with this Old Fashioned Chocolate Swirl Butter Cake, a delightful treat that marries a buttery, tender crumb with swirls of decadent chocolate. This cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, birthday, or just a cozy weekend treat. The combination of rich butter flavor and marbled chocolate layers creates a stunning presentation, and the final touch of a silky chocolate ganache topping takes it to the next level.

Easy to prepare and visually appealing, this cake offers the charm of nostalgic baking with a modern upgrade in the form of ganache, making it irresistible for chocolate lovers.

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Ingredients

For the Butter Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Swirl:

• ½ cup cocoa powder
• ½ cup hot water
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

For the Ganache Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
• 1 tsp butter (for a glossy finish)

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Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan or a bundt pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Swirl

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, hot water, and sugar until smooth and lump-free.
2. Take 1/3 of the prepared cake batter and mix it into the cocoa mixture to form the chocolate swirl batter.

Step 3: Create the Swirl Effect

1. Pour half of the plain batter into the prepared pan.
2. Spoon the chocolate batter over the plain batter in random dollops.
3. Top with the remaining plain batter.
4. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the chocolate through the vanilla batter to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes (for a bundt pan) or 35-40 minutes (for a 9×13 pan), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer (do not let it boil).
2. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt the chocolate.
3. Stir the mixture gently until smooth and glossy. Add the butter and stir until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Top the Cake with Ganache

1. Once the cake is completely cool, pour the chocolate ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
2. Use a spatula to spread the ganache evenly if needed.
3. Let the ganache set for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

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Cooking Note

• For a deeper chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate in the ganache.
• If you want to add texture, sprinkle the top with chopped nuts or chocolate shavings after pouring the ganache.
• Store leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair it with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast.
• Drizzle with salted caramel sauce for an extra indulgent twist.

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Tips

1. Marbling tip: Don’t over-swirl the batters—fewer swirls create a more defined marbled effect.
2. Room temperature ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
3. Ganache alternative: If you prefer a lighter topping, dust the cake with powdered sugar instead of ganache.
4. Freezing the cake: This cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw and apply ganache just before serving.

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Prep Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

50 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 10 minutes

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 22g
• Sugar: 35g

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Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Chocolate Swirl Butter Cake is a timeless dessert that brings together the best of both worlds: a buttery vanilla base and a rich chocolate swirl. Topped with a silky chocolate ganache, this cake is the definition of indulgence and elegance. Whether for special occasions or simple family dinners, this cake will wow your guests and leave them wanting more. With easy-to-follow steps and guaranteed deliciousness, you’ll find yourself making this treat time and time again.

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