Copycat Zebra Cakes Recipe
Introduction
These Copycat Zebra Cakes are a delightful treat that perfectly mimic the classic snack cake. Soft layers filled with creamy frosting and coated in rich chocolate make them an irresistible homemade indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 box cake mix (any flavor you prefer)
- Eggs (as called for on the cake mix box)
- Oil (as called for on the cake mix box)
- Cream filling (about 1 cup, store-bought or homemade)
- Chocolate coating (about 1 cup melted chocolate or chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions, using the required eggs and oil. Pour the batter into greased cake pans and bake the cake layers until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
- Step 2: Once the cake layers are cooled, spread a generous amount of cream filling over one layer, then place the second layer on top, forming a sandwich.
- Step 3: Dip or coat the assembled cake sandwiches with melted chocolate until fully covered. Place them on parchment paper to set and allow the chocolate to harden before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use vanilla or chocolate cake mix depending on your preferred flavor profile.
- For a homemade cream filling, whip together butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract.
- Chill the cakes briefly before dipping in chocolate to prevent the cream from melting.
- Add a pinch of salt to the melted chocolate to enhance flavor complexity.
Storage
Store the zebra cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best texture. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before eating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake instead of cake mix?
Yes, homemade cake works great and can add a personal touch to your zebra cakes. Just ensure the layers are sturdy enough to hold the filling and coating.
What kind of chocolate is best for the coating?
Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work well for a smooth coating, but you can also use white chocolate for a sweeter alternative. Make sure to melt the chocolate gently to avoid burning.
PrintCopycat Zebra Cakes Recipe
This Copycat Zebra Cakes recipe recreates the beloved snack cake featuring moist, tender cake layers filled with a creamy vanilla filling and coated in a rich chocolate shell. Perfect for a nostalgic treat or a fun dessert, these homemade zebra cakes deliver the classic combination of soft cake, smooth filling, and chocolatey coating in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 zebra cakes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow or vanilla cake mix (about 15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
Cream Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Chocolate Coating
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth and well blended.
- Bake Cake Layers: Pour the batter into greased and parchment-lined baking pans or mini loaf pans to create individual cake layers. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely on wire racks.
- Make Cream Filling: In a separate bowl, beat softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, continuing to beat until the filling is fluffy and spreadable.
- Assemble Cakes: Once the cake layers have cooled, evenly spread a generous layer of the cream filling over one cake layer. Top with a second cake layer to create a sandwich. Repeat for all cake layers.
- Prepare Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and vegetable oil in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and glossy.
- Coat the Cakes: Dip each assembled cake sandwich into the melted chocolate, ensuring all sides are fully coated. Place on parchment paper to set. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens.
Notes
- Use mini loaf pans or small round pans to mimic the classic zebra cake shape and size.
- The cream filling can be made ahead and stored in the fridge; bring to room temperature before using.
- You can substitute the chocolate coating with dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your preference.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter and chocolate alternatives.
- Store finished zebra cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Keywords: Zebra cakes, Copycat snack cake, Cream filled cakes, Chocolate coated cakes, Homemade snack cakes
