Zebra Cookies are beautifully swirled vanilla and chocolate treats that melt in your mouth with each bite. With their striking marbled pattern and buttery texture, these cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Zebra Cookies offer the perfect balance of rich cocoa and sweet vanilla flavors in a visually captivating design. Their soft, tender crumb and elegant marbled appearance make them ideal for festive occasions, afternoon tea, or simply brightening up your dessert tray. Easy to prepare with simple pantry staples, they are a creative yet approachable bake for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 tablespoon milk (if needed)
Pinch of salt

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Mix cocoa powder into one half to create a chocolate dough.
Take small portions of each dough and gently twist and roll them together to create a marbled, zebra-like pattern.
Flatten the dough slightly and use a round cookie cutter to shape.
Place the cookies onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to help maintain their shape.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just set. Do not overbake to keep them soft.
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Calories: 160 kcal per cookie

Variations

Extra Chocolatey: Add mini chocolate chips to the chocolate portion of the dough.
Flavored Swirl: Incorporate almond or peppermint extract into the vanilla dough for a unique twist.
Colorful Zebra Cookies: Add a few drops of food coloring to the vanilla dough for a playful, colorful effect.
Sandwich Cookies: Spread a layer of chocolate ganache or vanilla buttercream between two cookies for an indulgent treat.
Crunchy Twist: Roll the cookies in coarse sugar before baking for a sparkling, crunchy exterior.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Avoid reheating to maintain their soft, tender texture.

FAQs

How should I store Zebra Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze Zebra Cookies?

Yes, they can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Why do I need to chill the cookies before baking?

Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their texture during baking.

Can I use Dutch-process cocoa powder?

Yes, Dutch-process cocoa powder can be used for a richer chocolate flavor.

How do I keep the marbled effect?

Gently twist and roll the dough together without overmixing to preserve the distinct swirls.

Can I add other flavors to the dough?

Yes, you can add extracts like almond, coconut, or peppermint to the vanilla or chocolate dough.

What if my dough is too dry?

Add a tablespoon of milk if needed to bring the dough together smoothly.

How do I make the cookies more festive?

Use cookie cutters in fun shapes or add colored sprinkles for special occasions.

Can I make Zebra Cookies dairy-free?

Substitute plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.

What is the best way to achieve uniform-sized cookies?

Use a cookie scoop or weigh the dough portions before shaping and cutting.

Conclusion

Zebra Cookies are a beautiful, buttery fusion of vanilla and chocolate, offering a soft and delightful bite with every cookie. With their stunning marbled appearance and tender texture, they are perfect for parties, gifting, or simply enjoying a sweet moment. Easy to customize and sure to impress, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Zebra Cookies

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Delight your senses with Zebra Cookies — beautifully swirled vanilla and chocolate cookies that are tender, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Perfect for festive baking, cozy treats, and impressively artistic cookie platters! #zebracookies #marbledcookies #bakingjoy

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Category: Desserts, Cookies
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 tablespoon milk (if needed)
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Mix cocoa powder into one half to create chocolate dough.
Take small portions of each dough and gently twist and roll them together to form a marbled, zebra-like pattern.
Flatten the dough slightly and use a round cookie cutter to shape.
Place the cookies onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to help maintain their shape.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just set. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Adding a tablespoon of milk can help if the dough feels too crumbly.
For a stronger chocolate flavor, increase cocoa powder slightly.
These cookies freeze well — store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 160 kcal per cookie