Introduction
Zebra Cookies are a delightful swirl of chocolate and vanilla that combine buttery crispness with visual charm. Named for their striped, marbled look, these cookies are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. They’re soft, rich, and slightly crunchy on the edges — ideal for tea time, gifting, or a sweet indulgence any day of the week.
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Ingredients Quantity
Servings: 24–30 cookies
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 12–15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for texture)
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Instructions
- Prepare the Dough Base:
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, mixing well. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. - Divide and Flavor:
Split dough in half. Leave one half plain (vanilla). Add cocoa powder and a tablespoon of milk to the other half; knead until smooth. - Shape into Layers:
Roll each dough into equal-sized rectangles (about ½ cm thick). Place the chocolate layer over the vanilla layer. Gently roll them together into a log, or slice them into strips and alternate them for a zebra-striped pattern. - Chill:
Wrap the dough log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. - Slice and Bake:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Slice the dough into ¼-inch rounds and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. - Bake:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. - Cool and Serve:
Let the cookies cool on a rack. Enjoy with coffee, milk, or as a sweet finish after a meal.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
Zebra cookies reflect the artistic flair of European and American baking traditions, inspired by marbled cakes and checkerboard cookies that symbolize duality and balance. Their striking black-and-white look makes them a timeless favorite during holidays and celebrations.
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Description
Each bite of these cookies offers a melt-in-your-mouth buttery texture with hints of cocoa and vanilla that play beautifully together. The visual contrast of light and dark stripes makes them both elegant and fun — a treat that feels homemade yet gourmet.
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Optional Additions
- Chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Orange zest or almond extract to elevate the aroma.
- Drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate for a glossy finish.
- Dip half of each cookie in chocolate and sprinkle crushed nuts or coconut.
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Tips for Success
- Chill the dough well to keep stripes clean and sharp.
- Roll dough evenly to ensure even baking.
- Use good-quality cocoa for deep flavor and color.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer freshness.
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Nutritional Information (per cookie)
(Approximate values)
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 1.5 g
- Sugar: 6 g
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Conclusion and Recommendation
Zebra Cookies are a perfect harmony of chocolate and vanilla — simple to make, yet sophisticated in presentation. Their buttery crumb and gentle sweetness make them irresistible to both kids and adults. Serve them with afternoon tea, pack them in gift boxes, or enjoy them fresh from the oven with a warm drink.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
These cookies embody the art of mindful enjoyment — a reminder that sweetness can be balanced, beautiful, and satisfying without excess. Made from basic ingredients and real butter, they celebrate quality over quantity, letting you indulge with joy and moderation.