Quick Zebra Cake in Just 35 Minutes: Easy Recipe

Easy Zebra Cake Recipe: Delicious and Fun!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 large eggs, room temperature
5.3 ounces (150 grams) sour cream (at least 20% fat) / 2/3 cup
6 ounces (170 grams) all-purpose flour / 1.5 cups
5.3 ounces (150 grams) sugar / 3/4 cup
0.35 ounces (10 grams) vanilla sugar / 2 teaspoons
3.5 ounces (100 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature / 7 tablespoons
1 ounce (30 grams) cocoa powder / 1/3 cup
0.35 ounces (10 grams) baking powder / 2 teaspoons

Equipment

Mixing Bowls
You'll need at least two large mixing bowls for separating and mixing the batters. Choose bowls with non-slip bases to make mixing effortless.
Electric Mixer
An electric mixer will save you time and give you a smooth batter. Make sure to scrape down the sides for even mixing.
Baking Pan
A 9-inch round cake pan works best for this recipe. Grease it well or use parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
Spatula
A silicone spatula is great for folding in ingredients and scraping every last bit of batter from the bowl.
Cooling Rack
Transfer the cake to a cooling rack right out of the oven to keep the bottom from getting soggy.

Instructions

Step 1

Preparing the Batter

Combine unsalted butter with sugar, vanilla sugar, and eggs, mixing thoroughly.

Mix in the sour cream.

Add all-purpose flour and baking powder, mix until smooth, then divide the batter in half.

Mix the cocoa powder into one half of the batter.

Step 2

Baking the Cake

Alternate adding the two batters into a baking form to create the zebra pattern.

Bake in an oven preheated to 356 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius) for 30-35 minutes.

Servings

The magic of this Zebra Cake is not just in its look, but also in its endless serving possibilities. Perfect for a kids’ party, this cake will have little ones saying "wow" before they even take a bite. 🥳 For a more sophisticated twist, serve it with a side of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. 🍨 Pro tip: drizzling a bit of chocolate ganache over each slice will make it irresistible! Enjoying a cozy afternoon with a cup of coffee? ☕ A slice of this Zebra Cake is the perfect companion, offering just the right amount of sweetness to your cup. For a brunch gathering, layer the slices with fresh berries and a light dusting of powdered sugar to create an Instagram-worthy display. 📸✨ Remember, presentation is key. However you decide to serve this delightful cake, make it a centerpiece to show off that beautiful zebra stripe pattern! ✨

Variations

To make a gluten-free version of this Zebra Cake, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. 👍 Be sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum or add a teaspoon to your mix to get the right texture. If you're aiming for a vegan variation, perform these swaps:

Eggs: Use a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Butter: Sub in coconut oil or a high-quality vegan butter.
Sour Cream: Use a dairy-free sour cream or full-fat coconut yogurt.

🌱 These substitutes yield a delicious cake without compromising on that stunning zebra stripe effect. Who said dietary restrictions have to mean bland desserts? Enjoy every bite! 🥰

Faq

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is done!
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but the flavor and texture might slightly vary. Always opt for a high-fat content margarine.
What’s the trick to getting even zebra stripes?
Alternately layer the batters one spoonful at a time. Try to pour each layer directly in the center of the previous one for the best effect.
How can I make the cake more moist?
Ensure you do not over-bake the cake. You can also add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the batter for extra moisture.
Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! Try adding a hint of almond extract or a swirl of caramel for a unique twist.
What’s the best way to store this cake?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it, but allow it to come to room temp before serving.