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Black Sesame Vanilla Swirl Cake

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A visually stunning marbled cake that combines the nutty depth of black sesame with fragrant vanilla, topped with whipped cream and fresh berries—ideal for elegant gatherings or a decadent weekend dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Black Sesame Batter:
  • 1 cup black sesame seeds
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • For the Vanilla Batter:
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste (or seeds from 1 vanilla pod)
  • For Decorating (optional):
  • Whipped cream
  • Black sesame seeds
  • Fresh raspberries or strawberries

Instructions

  1. Toast black sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
  2. Blend toasted sesame seeds in a food processor until a thick paste forms, about 2–3 minutes. Set aside.
  3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
  4. For the black sesame batter: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Fold in the black sesame paste until evenly incorporated.
  6. For the vanilla batter: In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste.
  7. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, until smooth.
  8. Alternately spoon black sesame and vanilla batters into the prepared cake pans. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batters for a marbled effect. Do not overmix.
  9. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  11. To assemble, place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread whipped cream on top, if using.
  12. Place the second layer on top, then pipe whipped cream over the top layer.
  13. Garnish with fresh berries and sprinkle black sesame seeds for decoration.

Notes

  • Do not skip toasting the sesame seeds—it brings out their nutty flavor.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and better texture.
  • Use a light hand when swirling the batters to maintain distinct marbling.
  • Chill the cake before serving if using whipped cream to keep it fresh and firm.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/black-sesame-vanilla-swirl-cake/