Growing up in a quaint village in southern Italy, my childhood was filled with the comforting aromas of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces. Food was more than sustenance; it was a way to bring people together. Now, as a chef who has traveled the world, I’ve embraced flavors from various cultures. One delightful treat that has captured my heart is the Zebra Cake a nostalgic snack that brings joy with every bite.
Why You’ll Love These Zebra Cakes
These homemade Zebra Cakes are a delightful fusion of moist yellow cake layers and a creamy filling, all enrobed in a sweet coating with signature chocolate stripes. They’re perfect for busy moms and professionals seeking a nostalgic treat that’s both fun to make and enjoy.
Note: The full list with exact measurements will be found in the recipe card at the end of the article.
Ingredients
Yellow Cake:
- 15.25 oz yellow cake mix (preferably Betty Crocker “Super Moist”)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs + 1 egg yolk
Crème Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (use clear vanilla for a bright white buttercream)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 teaspoons milk (as needed)
Coating:
- 24 ounces white melting wafers or almond bark
- ¼ cup milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips (for stripes), melted
Steps to Create Your Zebra Cakes
Prepare the Yellow Cake:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, eggs, and the extra egg yolk. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased and parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Tap the pan on the counter about 20 times to release any air bubbles.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes before flipping it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, place the cake in the freezer for 30-60 minutes to firm up, making it easier to cut into shapes.
Prepare the Crème Filling:
- Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and salt on high speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, half a cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and continue to beat for 5-8 minutes until the frosting is fluffy.
- If the frosting is too thick, add milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Assemble the Cakes:
- Remove the cake from the freezer and cut out 2.5-inch circles using a biscuit cutter or a sharp-edged cup. You should get about 12 circles.
- Slice each circle horizontally to create two layers.
- Pipe a double layer of crème filling onto the bottom half of each cake circle, then place the top half back on. Gently press down to secure.
- Freeze the assembled cakes for another 30-60 minutes to ensure they hold together during the coating process.
Coat the Cakes:
- Melt the white chocolate wafers or almond bark according to the package instructions.
- Remove the cakes from the freezer and gently brush off any loose crumbs. Quickly roll the sides of each cake in the melted white chocolate, then place them on a wire rack or parchment paper.
- Use a spoon to pour the reserved white chocolate over the tops of the cakes, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Melt the chocolate chips and transfer them to a small piping bag or a zip-top bag with a tiny corner cut off. Pipe thin stripes across the top of each cake to create the classic zebra pattern.
- Allow the cakes to set until the chocolate hardens.
Tips for Perfect Zebra Cakes
- Consistency is Key: Ensure your crème filling is fluffy by beating it adequately. If it’s too thick, a little milk can help achieve the right texture.
- Chill Out: Freezing the cake before cutting and after assembling helps maintain their shape during coating.
- Chocolate Choices: White melting wafers provide a smooth coating, but almond bark with a bit of vegetable shortening works well too.
A Personal Touch
These Zebra Cakes remind me of my travels, where I discovered that combining different culinary traditions can lead to delightful creations. They’re a perfect pairing alongside other whimsical desserts like Homemade Starbucks Cake Pops or a vibrant Funfetti Cupcake celebration.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While traditional Zebra Cakes use yellow cake, feel free to experiment with flavors like chocolate or strawberry.
How should I store leftover Zebra Cakes?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cakes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Creating these homemade Zebra Cakes is a fun and rewarding experience that brings a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them