Zebra Cakes The Ultimate Sweet Escape You Need
"Learn how to make stunning zebra cakes with this easy recipe! Perfectly striped, deliciously moist, and customizable for any occasion. Try it today!"
Servings: 10 slices
Calories: 250kcal
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour for structure and softness
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder to help the cakes rise beautifully
- ½ teaspoon baking soda for added lift
- ½ teaspoon salt balances the sweetness
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder for those rich chocolate stripes
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar provides sweetness and texture
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened (for a moist and tender crumb)
- 2 large eggs binds the ingredients together
- 1 cup whole milk or your favorite non-dairy alternative
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for that classic aroma and flavor
Optional Add-Ons
- 1 teaspoon almond extract for a subtle nutty undertone
- Zest of 1 orange pairs beautifully with the chocolate flavor
For the Frosting or Glaze
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar for a smooth, glossy finish
- 2-3 tablespoons milk to adjust the consistency
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a classic touch
Tips for Success
- Sift the Dry Ingredients: This ensures a lump-free batter and a perfectly smooth texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs butter, and milk to come to room temperature for a well-blended, creamy batter.
- Use Quality Cocoa Powder: Opt for unsweetened high-quality cocoa to achieve the best flavor for your chocolate stripes.
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
- Gather Your Tools: Have a few bowls, a whisk, and a small ladle or spoon ready. A steady hand will make the pattern shine!
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt in a medium bowl.
- Divide the dry mixture in half. Add 3 tablespoons cocoa powder to one half to create the chocolate layer.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well. Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract for a classic flavor.
- Gradually incorporate 1 cup milk, alternating with the dry ingredients, until smooth. Divide the batter evenly into two bowls, mixing the cocoa powder into one for the chocolate batter.
Create the Zebra Pattern
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of vanilla batter into the center of the first cake pan.
- Top it with 2 tablespoons of chocolate batter, pouring it directly into the center of the vanilla layer.
- Repeat this layering process, alternating between the batters, until the pan is full. Do the same for the second pan.
Bake and Cool
- Place the pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Finish with a Flourish
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost them with your favorite buttercream or drizzle with a rich chocolate glaze. For a simple finish, dust with powdered sugar to highlight the stripes.
Quick Tips for Success
- Even Layers: Use a measuring spoon for precise portions to maintain clean, even stripes.
- No Rushing: Allow the cakes to cool fully before adding frosting or glaze to prevent melting.
- Experiment: Try swapping vanilla for almond extract or adding citrus zest to customize your flavor profile.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Sugars: 20 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g