Homemade Zebra Cakes That Are Better Than Store-Bought
Zebra cakes are a delightful treat that combine a classic vanilla and chocolate flavor in a visually stunning striped pattern. Perfect for any occasion, these cakes not only look impressive but also taste incredibly delicious! The secret to achieving the perfect zebra stripes lies in careful layering of the batters, creating concentric rings that resemble the stripes of a zebra. This recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers and fun enough for more experienced ones to experiment with variations. Whether you’re serving it at a party, a family dinner, or just for a weekend treat, this homemade zebra cake will surely impress!
Ingredients
- ½ cups all-purpose flour / 180g sifted)
- ¼ teaspoons baking powder / 5g
- ½ teaspoons salt / 2g
- ½ cup unsalted butter / 115g room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar / 200g
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup milk / 180ml (room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder / 15g
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional for a moist texture)
Frosting (Optional)
- ½ cup unsalted butter / 115g (room temperature)
- 2 cups powdered sugar / 240g
- 1 tablespoon milk / 15ml
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- 1.Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- 2.Prepare the batters:In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, mixing just until combined.
- 3.Divide the batter:Separate the batter into two equal portions. To one portion, add the cocoa powder and stir until fully combined. Leave the other portion plain (vanilla).
- 4.Layer the batters:Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the vanilla batter into the center of the prepared pan.Top it with 2-3 tablespoons of the chocolate batter, placing it directly on top of the vanilla.Repeat this process, alternating between vanilla and chocolate batters, until both are used up. The batter will naturally spread out, creating beautiful stripes.
- 5.Bake the cake:Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Frost the cake (optional):In a bowl, beat the butter for the frosting until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy.Once the cake is fully cooled, frost the top and sides of the cake with the frosting.
- Serve and enjoy:Slice and enjoy your homemade zebra cake! Perfect for serving at parties, family gatherings, or as an afternoon snack.
Notes
- Storage: Store the zebra cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If refrigerated, it will last up to 1 week.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and use a gluten-free baking powder to keep the texture light and airy.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based milk and butter.
