There’s something enchanting about the layers of chocolate and vanilla merging into a beautiful zebra pattern, and this Moist Vegan Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting does just that. Imagine the warmth of freshly baked cake filling your kitchen, the sweet scent of vanilla mingling with a hint of cocoa—it’s pure bliss!
I came across this recipe one rainy afternoon when the craving for something indulgent crept up on me. With a few vegan pantry staples and a bit of creativity, I transformed a simple cake into an eye-catching masterpiece that not only looks stunning but also tastes divine. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that offers a delightful surprise in every slice.
So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to impress with this easy-to-follow recipe. Your taste buds will thank you as you enjoy the rich flavors and moist texture—who says vegan can’t be ridiculously delicious? Get ready to whip up a treat that’s as fun to create as it is to eat!
Why will you love Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Visual Delight: The stunning zebra stripes make this cake a showstopper at any gathering, perfect for impressing friends and family.
Rich, Creamy Frosting: Topped with a luxurious cream cheese frosting, it elevates the cake’s decadent flavors.
Vegan & Delicious: Made with simple vegan ingredients, you can indulge guilt-free without sacrificing taste.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying your very own masterpiece in just about 50 minutes!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, celebration, or just a sweet craving, this cake fits all occasions beautifully.
Try this recipe for an incredible dessert experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
For the Cake
• Vegan buttermilk – essential for keeping the cake moist and tender.
• Granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s structure.
• Salted vegan butter – ensures a rich, buttery flavor while being completely dairy-free.
• Unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (or applesauce) – lends moisture and a subtle tang to the cake.
• Vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
• Sea salt – balances sweetness and elevates flavors.
• Baking powder – helps the cake rise for a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking soda – works alongside baking powder for an airy crumb.
• All-purpose flour – the foundation of the cake, providing structure and stability.
• Cocoa powder – adds depth and richness, creating that delightful chocolate flavor.
• Dairy-free milk – keeps the chocolate batter smooth and easy to combine.
For the Frosting
• Vegan cream cheese frosting (or vegan chocolate buttercream, or vegan buttercream) – the creamy topping that ties the flavors together, making your Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting a delightful experience.
Get ready to gather these delicious ingredients and embark on the tasty adventure of creating your own stunning zebra cake!
How to Make Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
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Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are. Grab two 8” cake pans, grease them with cooking oil, and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Prepare vegan buttermilk: Combine the dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5-6 minutes until it curdles slightly, creating a rich buttermilk substitute.
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Mix wet ingredients: In a stand mixer or a large bowl, whisk together the melted vegan butter and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the dairy-free yogurt, vanilla extract, and sea salt, whisking until smooth and combined.
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Combine dry and wet mixes: Gradually fold in half of the dry flour mixture and half of the vegan buttermilk into the wet mix. Stir gently until just combined, then add the remaining dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until no dry streaks remain.
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Make chocolate batter: Split half of the vanilla cake batter into another bowl. Mix in the cocoa powder and additional dairy-free milk until well combined to create your delicious chocolate batter.
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Layer the batters: In the prepared cake pans, spoon 1/4 cup of vanilla batter in the middle of each pan, followed by 1/4 cup of chocolate batter directly on top. Continue alternating until both pans are filled.
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Bake the cakes: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 30-33 minutes. The cakes are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool the cakes: Once done, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
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Frost the cake: After the cakes have cooled, prepare your favorite vegan cream cheese frosting. Frost the cake liberally, decorating as desired for a beautiful finish!
Optional: Top with fresh fruit for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for those hectic weeknights when you’re pressed for time! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance by baking them and allowing them to cool completely, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness. For the cream cheese frosting, it can be made 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply frost the cake and let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure it’s just as delicious as when freshly made. This meal prep strategy gives you a stunning dessert with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Room Temperature: Keep the unfrosted zebra cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
Fridge: Once frosted, store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the cake (frosted or unfrosted) for up to 3 months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil; this preserves the delightful flavors of your Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. If frozen, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
What to Serve with Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Imagine your table adorned with color and flavor, inviting guests to indulge in sweet harmony and delight.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a burst of freshness that perfectly balances the cake’s sweetness. Their tangy notes lift each slice, making it even more irresistible.
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Vegan Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla or chocolate vegan ice cream provides a rich, indulgent contrast to the moist cake, enhancing the overall dessert experience. Scoop it onto your plate for a delicious treat everyone will love!
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Espresso or Coffee: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed espresso or coffee complement the sweetness of the cake beautifully. Sip on these warm beverages to elevate the dessert moment, creating a lovely finish to your meal.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, coconut whipped cream offers a tropical twist that pairs deliciously with the zebra cake. Its subtle sweetness enhances the flavors while adding a luxurious touch.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm, luscious chocolate sauce over your cake slices for that extra indulgence. The gooey richness harmonizes beautifully with the creamy frosting, making every bite utterly decadent.
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Nutty Granola: Adding a sprinkle of crunchy, nutty granola provides a delightful textural contrast. The flavors intertwine, giving your zebra cake an unexpected twist that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Expert Tips for Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
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Prepping Pans: Grease and line the cake pans well to ensure your cake comes out easily without sticking, protecting that beautiful zebra pattern.
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Mixing Batter: Avoid overmixing once combining the wet and dry ingredients to maintain a light and fluffy texture in your Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
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Layering Wisely: When layering the batters, be sure to use equal amounts to create a balanced zebra effect. Too much of one batter will disrupt the pattern.
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Cooling Properly: Allowing the cakes to cool completely before frosting is key—this prevents the frosting from melting and gives you a clean, beautiful finish.
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Frosting Variety: Experiment with different vegan frostings like chocolate or vanilla to find your favorite flavor pairing with the cake’s rich textures.
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Don’t Rush Baking: Always check for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out wet, give your cake a few extra minutes in the oven to avoid a gooey center.
Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will enhance your cake experience and cater to your personal taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously inclusive cake. Enjoy the same light texture without the gluten!
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Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to sweeten your cake without the guilt. Who says you can’t indulge while watching your sugar intake?
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Fruit-Infused: Fold in fresh berries or banana puree into the batter for a fruity surprise. Each slice will offer added moisture and a burst of flavor!
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Nutty Flavor: Add a half-cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and nutty richness in every bite. It’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss!
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Spiced Up: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy spice which complements the chocolate and vanilla beautifully. This twist just might remind you of autumn!
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Additional Cocoa: For a richer chocolate flavor, increase the cocoa powder to 1/2 cup. It’ll be a chocolate lover’s dream come true!
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Coffee Kick: Stir in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the batter for a hint of mocha flavor that enhances the chocolate. It’s a delightful pairing that truly elevates the cake!
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Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon to the cake batter for a refreshing twist that balances the sweetness perfectly. This bright note will keep your taste buds dancing!
Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
How should I select the best ingredients for the cake?
Absolutely! When choosing ingredients, opt for fresh vegan butter that’s creamy and smooth. The yogurt or applesauce should also be room temperature to help achieve a moist texture. For the cocoa powder, ensure it’s dark and rich for that deep chocolate flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! You can keep the unfrosted zebra cake at room temperature for up to 2 days if wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. Once frosted, store it in the refrigerator, covered tightly, where it will keep fresh for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze the zebra cake?
Certainly! To freeze your zebra cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze either the frosted or unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
What if my cake comes out too dry?
If your cake comes out drier than expected, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Always measure flour by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off. If it seems dry after baking, consider using a vegan syrup or a simple syrup to brush on the layers for added moisture.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely, it’s important to be mindful! This recipe is vegan and free from common allergens like dairy and eggs. However, make sure to check your specific brands of butter and cream cheese, as some may contain soy or nuts, which are also common allergens. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, always confirm the ingredients beforehand.
Can I use different frostings for this cake?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with various vegan frostings! Vegan chocolate buttercream or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar can bring delightful variations to your zebra cake. Personalizing your frosting is a fantastic way to make it your own!
Ultimate Zebra Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8” cake pans.
- Prepare vegan buttermilk by combining dairy-free milk and apple cider vinegar; let it sit for 5-6 minutes.
- In a mixer, whisk together melted vegan butter and sugar until creamy, then add yogurt, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Gradually fold in half of the flour mixture and half of the buttermilk; then mix in remaining ingredients until combined.
- Split half the vanilla batter into another bowl; mix in cocoa powder and dairy-free milk to create chocolate batter.
- Layer batters, alternating between 1/4 cup of vanilla and 1/4 cup of chocolate batter in the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-33 minutes; cakes are done when a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
- Frost cooled cakes with vegan cream cheese frosting as desired.