Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Red White & Blue Marble Cake is a patriotic dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With vibrant swirls of red, white, and blue inside a soft, buttery vanilla cake, it’s the perfect centerpiece for 4th of July, Memorial Day, or any summer celebration. Easy to make and fun to slice, this eye-catching treat brings a festive flair to any holiday table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose floursugarunsalted butter (softened)eggsvanilla extractbaking powdersaltwhole milkred food coloringblue food coloring

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a bundt pan.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, until the batter is smooth.

Divide the batter evenly into three bowls.

Leave one portion plain (white), color the second with red food coloring, and the third with blue.

Spoon dollops of each colored batter into the prepared pan in a random pattern.

Use a butter knife to gently swirl the colors together for a marbled effect—do not overmix.

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 10–12 slices.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 45–55 minutesCooling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

Add lemon or almond extract for a flavor twist.

Bake in cupcake tins for individual marble treats.

Top with whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant presentation.

Make a layer cake with red, white, and blue marbled layers and frosting.

Use gel food coloring for more vibrant shades.

storage/reheating

Store the cake tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.Refrigerate for up to 5 days if topped with glaze or frosting.Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a cake mix?

Yes, use a white or yellow cake mix and follow the same marbling steps.

Is this cake very sweet?

It has a classic vanilla cake sweetness—adjust sugar if preferred.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it stays fresh for a couple of days and freezes well.

What kind of food coloring is best?

Gel food coloring gives bold color without thinning the batter.

Can I make this without eggs?

Use an egg substitute like applesauce or flaxseed mixture, but texture may vary.

Can I glaze or frost this cake?

Yes, a simple glaze or buttercream pairs beautifully.

Do I need a mixer?

A hand mixer or stand mixer is helpful but not required—you can mix by hand.

Will the colors fade after baking?

No, gel coloring holds vibrant shades during baking.

What’s the best way to swirl the batter?

Gently drag a butter knife in a figure-eight motion to create marbling.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double for a sheet cake or two 9-inch rounds.

Conclusion

Red White & Blue Marble Cake is a stunning dessert that delivers both visual impact and delicious flavor. Whether served at a festive gathering or as a sweet way to show your patriotic spirit, this cake is sure to impress guests and add a colorful touch to your celebration. Easy to make and endlessly delightful, it’s the perfect treat to slice into all summer long.