Chocolate Zebra Coffee Cake

Name: Chocolate Zebra Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled; Powdered sugar for dusting

Highlighted under: Gourmet Baking Bliss

I absolutely love baking, and this Chocolate Zebra Coffee Cake has become one of my favorite recipes. With its striking marbled design, it not only looks stunning but tastes divine too. The combination of rich chocolate and fragrant coffee creates a delicious harmony that I find irresistible. Whether enjoyed with a morning cup of coffee or as an afternoon indulgence, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, which is an added bonus for any home baker!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T00:29:29.167Z

When I first attempted the Chocolate Zebra Coffee Cake, I was amazed by how simple it was to achieve that beautiful marbled effect. By alternating the batters, I created a stunning visual appeal that never fails to impress my guests. In my experience, using a high-quality cocoa powder has made all the difference in the rich chocolate flavor.

I also learned the importance of properly greasing the pan to ensure a flawless release. Each bite reveals layers of chocolate and coffee that blend together beautifully, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s a treat that deserves a place at every culinary celebration!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh coffee notes
Beautiful marbled design that impresses
Perfect for any occasion, from brunch to dessert

Mastering the Marble

Achieving the perfect zebra pattern in your Chocolate Zebra Coffee Cake is all about technique. When spooning the two alternating dollops of batter into the pan, aim for even spatial distribution. Start in the center of the pan and work your way outward, allowing the batter to naturally spread. This approach ensures each slice showcases that beautiful marbling. If you notice the batter isn’t spreading well, gently shake the pan to help it settle into place.

If you want a more defined zebra effect, consider using a knife or skewer after spooning the batters into the pan. Carefully swirl it a few times to create a more pronounced blend, but be cautious not to over-mix, or you'll lose that distinct contrast. The result will be visually striking, inviting your guests to dig in!

Cooling and Storing

Cooling is an essential step for any cake, but particularly for this Chocolate Zebra Coffee Cake, as it allows flavors to meld and the texture to firm up. After removing it from the oven, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This initial cooling helps prevent sticking, making it easier to transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling. If you skip this, you may end up with a crumbly mess!

Once cooled, the cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or zip-lock bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw at room temperature or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds for a freshly baked taste.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup brewed coffee, cooled

For the Topping

Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine with Coffee

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the cooled coffee until well combined.

Create the Zebra Effect

Spoon two alternating dollops of the batter (chocolate and coffee) into the center of the pan. Repeat until all the batter is used.

Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Pro Tips

For a more pronounced coffee flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the batter. This cake also travels well, making it a great option for potlucks or gatherings.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can easily substitute it with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Just be aware that this may slightly alter the texture, making it denser. For those looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend can work well, though you may need to adjust the liquid content slightly.

If you're out of cocoa powder, dark chocolate melted and cooled can be used instead. Just ensure the chocolate is unsweetened to maintain that rich flavor. For a lighter twist, try swapping brewed coffee with brewed espresso for an even bolder coffee profile, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Zebra Coffee Cake can be enjoyed in various ways. For a delightful breakfast treat, serve it warm alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate it further, adding that extra indulgence; simply microwave some chocolate chips with a splash of cream until smooth and pour it over the cooled cake.

For a sophisticated touch, consider pairing it with a strong cup of espresso or a flavored coffee to complement the cake's rich flavors. If you're hosting a gathering, slice the cake into smaller pieces and arrange them on a decorative platter to create an impressive dessert table centerpiece.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf coffee?

Absolutely! Using decaf coffee will still provide the flavor without the caffeine.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can wrap the cooled cake tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

→ Is there a gluten-free version?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but the texture might differ slightly.