Description
Zebra Cakes are a playful and delicious dessert featuring striking black-and-white layers. These cakes are perfect for any occasion, offering a mix of chocolate and vanilla flavors in every bite. With their eye-catching pattern and moist texture, they’re sure to impress kids and adults alike. Whether served as a snack or dessert, these cakes are both fun and satisfying!
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Cake Batter:
- 2 ½ cups (320g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ cup (25g) cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons milk (for the chocolate layer)
- For the Frosting (Optional):
- 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. - Divide the Batter:
Divide the batter evenly into two bowls. In one bowl, add the cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of milk to create the chocolate batter. Mix until smooth. - Create the Zebra Pattern:
Using a spoon, drop 2 tablespoons of vanilla batter into the center of the cake pan. Then, add 2 tablespoons of chocolate batter directly on top of the vanilla. Continue alternating until the pans are filled, creating a bullseye pattern. - Bake the Cakes:
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting or serving. - Optional Frosting:
For a light glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cakes and let it set before slicing.
Notes
- For an extra chocolaty flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the cake)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 26 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Zebra Cakes, Chocolate Vanilla Cake, Fun Dessert Recipe, Black and White Cake, Layered Cake Recipe