5 tsp baking powder

Prepare the Vanilla BatterIn a large bowl, beat 3 eggs, vanilla sugar, and 120 g sugar until light and creamy. Gradually blend in milk and vegetable oil. Stir in baking powder and vanilla extract, then gently fold in 200 g flour until the batter is free of lumps.

Divide and Darken the BatterRemove half the vanilla batter into a separate bowl. Add 2–3 tbsp cocoa powder to the reserved half and mix until thoroughly combined—your smooth chocolate batter awaits.

Make the Strawberry-Cottage Cheese FillingIn a small bowl, whisk together cottage cheese, sugar, 1 egg, and vanilla until creamy. Gently fold in sliced strawberries to distribute evenly.

Prepare the PanLine the bottom of your cake pan with damp, herb-sprayed parchment paper. Grease the sides lightly with vegetable oil for easy release.

Create the Zebra SwirlsBegin layering by pouring a large tablespoon of vanilla batter at the center of the pan. Next, add a spoonful of chocolate batter on top of the vanilla. Continue alternating batters so that concentric circles build the zebra pattern.

Swirl in the Strawberry-Cottage Cheese MixOnce most of the batter is used and the zebra pattern established, gently drop spoonfuls of the strawberry-cottage cheese mix (about 1–2 tbsp each) in a spiral on top. Using a butter knife, draw a few swirls through the batter to create marbling.

Bake the CakePreheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Bake the cake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a cake tester inserted in the center emerges clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Cool and ServeAllow the cake to cool in its pan for 10–15 minutes. Carefully remove and transfer to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing to preserve the zebra effect. Serve plain or dusted with powdered sugar.

Can I use frozen strawberries?Yes—just thaw and drain before adding to the swirl to prevent excess moisture.

Can I substitute yogurt for cottage cheese?You can, but texture will be thinner. Greek yogurt works best for consistency.

How do I prevent colors from bleeding?Add swirls gently and bake immediately after assembly.

What size pan should I use?20–22 cm (8–9″) round cake pan works best for even zebra patterns.

Is it gluten-free adaptable?Yes—swap in a told-for-told gluten-free flour blend and check baking time.

Can I make it ahead?Yes! Bake, cool, cover, and store at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

How do I store leftovers?Wrap the cake in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Why didn’t my zebra pattern show?Be sure to pour layers at center and alternate batters carefully for distinct rings.

Can I double the recipe?Yes—but bake in a larger pan and increase bake time by approximately 10–15 minutes.

Can I replace cocoa powder with melted chocolate?Yes—but melt and cool the chocolate slightly, adjusting additional sugar as melted chocolate is sweet.