Ingredients:

For the cake:

1 box vanilla cake mix (or homemade vanilla cake recipe)
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 cup water
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the chocolate filling:

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup heavy cream
For the white filling:

1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
For the chocolate glaze:

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp heavy cream
Preparation:

Prepare the cake batter:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or a similar-sized pan) or line them with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions (usually by combining the cake mix with oil, eggs, water, and vanilla extract). Mix until smooth and well combined.

Create the zebra pattern:
Divide the cake batter into two bowls. In one bowl, leave the batter as is. In the second bowl, stir in 2 tbsp of cocoa powder (or melted chocolate) to make it a darker color.

Form the zebra pattern:
Spoon a tablespoon of the vanilla batter into the center of each prepared pan. Then, place a tablespoon of the chocolate batter directly on top of the vanilla batter. Continue layering the two batters (alternating between vanilla and chocolate) until all the batter is used. The batter will spread out into a circular pattern as you add each new layer.

Bake the cakes:
Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the fillings:

Chocolate filling: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
White filling: In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and thick, adding more milk if needed to reach a spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Zebra Cakes:
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a flat surface or plate. Spread the white filling evenly on top of the first layer of cake. Add the second cake layer on top and gently press down to set.

Add the chocolate glaze:
In a small saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and heavy cream together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Let it cool for a few minutes. Pour the glaze over the top of the cake, spreading it gently to the edges.

Decorate the cake with stripes:
Use the remaining chocolate filling to pipe or drizzle stripes over the top of the cake in a zebra pattern. You can use a piping bag or a spoon to create alternating chocolate and white lines for the signature zebra effect.

Serve:
Let the cake set for 15-20 minutes to allow the glaze to firm up before slicing and serving.

These Homemade Zebra Cakes are a fun, delicious twist on the classic store-bought treat! With layers of light vanilla and rich chocolate cake, creamy fillings, and a glossy chocolate glaze, they’re sure to be a hit!