Zebra Cake
There’s something magical about cutting into a cake and seeing a beautiful pattern inside, isn’t there? Zebra Cake brings that wow factor to your dessert table while remaining simple to whip up.
With alternating layers of vanilla and chocolate batter, this cake is not just a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds.
It’s wonderfully moist and perfectly sweet, making it a delightful treat for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a cozy afternoon at home with a cup of coffee. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely impress your friends and family!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 280
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
Why I Love This Zebra Cake
This Zebra Cake holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of childhood baking sessions with my mom.
There’s something so fun about the swirling patterns when you slice into it! Plus, it balances the flavors of chocolate and vanilla perfectly, making it a hit with everyone.
Whether you serve it at a birthday party or a simple family dinner, it never fails to bring smiles. It’s easy enough to make that even novice bakers can shine. Trust me, you’ll love how simple and satisfying it is to create this striped wonder!
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour,
1 cup sugar,
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened,
2 large eggs,
1/2 cup milk,
1 teaspoon vanilla extract,
1/2 teaspoon baking powder,
1/4 cup cocoa powder,
1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Zebra Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan. This will ensure your cake comes out easily after baking!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps to incorporate air into the batter, making it airy and soft.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. Make sure to beat them in thoroughly to help with the cake’s structure.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Stir in the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. This adds moisture and a lovely aroma to your cake.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the cake dense.
Step 6: Divide the Batter
Divide the batter into two bowls. Add the cocoa powder to one bowl and mix well. You should have one vanilla batter and one chocolate batter ready to go!
Step 7: Create the Zebra Pattern
In the prepared cake pan, alternate pouring the plain vanilla batter and the cocoa batter. Start with a few spoonfuls of vanilla, then add cocoa in the center. Repeat this until both batters are used up. This is the fun part — creating the striped pattern!
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will smell heavenly, and you’ll know your cake is almost ready!
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Sifting the flour: To make the cake even lighter, try sifting the flour before mixing it into the batter.
- Serving Idea: Top your Zebra Cake with whipped cream and fresh berries for a delicious presentation.
- Diet Swaps: Want a gluten-free option? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Flavor Twist: You can add a sprinkle of espresso powder to the chocolate batter for a mocha twist!
Delicious Variations
- Marble Cake: Mix your favorite flavors (like lemon or almond) into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Red Velvet Cake: Try a red velvet version with a cream cheese frosting instead.
- Carrot Cake: Incorporate shredded carrots and spices for a twist on this classic.
- Chocolate Chip Cake: Fold in some chocolate chips for extra sweetness in the batter.
Serving Suggestions for Zebra Cake
Serve your Zebra Cake at room temperature for the best flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can take it up a notch.
It’s a fantastic treat for a cozy family gathering or a lively birthday celebration. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk, and you’ve got the perfect combination!
Storage and Leftovers
To store the Zebra Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it — it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge before serving!
Helpful Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day in advance. Just make sure to store it properly.Can I use different cake pans?
Absolutely! You can use square or rectangular pans; just adjust the baking time accordingly.What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
If you’re out of cocoa powder, you can substitute it with carob powder, though it has a slightly different taste.Can I add frosting?
Yes! Cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache works wonderfully with this cake.Is there a vegan version of this cake?
You can definitely make it vegan by using plant-based butter, almond milk, and a flax egg as a substitute for the eggs.
Enjoy your baking adventure with this delightful Zebra Cake! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home, just like it is in mine.
Print
Zebra Cake
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A visually stunning cake with alternating layers of vanilla and chocolate batter that’s wonderfully moist and sweet.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide the batter into two bowls and add cocoa powder to one bowl, mixing well.
- In the prepared cake pan, alternate pouring the vanilla and cocoa batter to create the zebra pattern.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For an extra light cake, sift the flour before mixing. Top with whipped cream and berries for presentation.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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