This No-Bake Raspberry Yogurt Zebra Cake is an elegant and light dessert perfect for the holiday season. Featuring a beautiful zebra pattern created by alternating layers of raspberry yogurt mousse and yogurt almond mousse, this cake sits on an Oreo almond-flavored crust and is topped with a shiny raspberry jelly. Not only does it look impressive, but it’s also easy to prepare and doesn’t require any baking!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Oreo Crust:

7 oz (200g) Oreo cookies
1/4 cup (60g) butter, melted
1/2 tsp (3g) almond extract

For the Raspberry Yogurt Mousse:

10 oz (300g) fresh or frozen raspberries
1/3 cup (70g) sugar
1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice
2 ¼ tsp (7g) gelatin powder
3 tbsp (45g) cold water
3/4 cup (180g) Greek yogurt
3/4 cup (180g) whipping cream (35% fat), chilled

For the Yogurt Almond Mousse:

1 ¼ cup (300g) Greek yogurt
1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
1 tsp (5g) almond extract
2 ¼ tsp (7g) gelatin powder
3 tbsp (45g) cold water
1 ¼ cup (300g) whipping cream (35% fat), chilled

For the Raspberry Jelly:

5 oz (150g) fresh or frozen raspberries
2 tbsp (30g) sugar
1 tsp (3g) gelatin powder
1 tbsp (15ml) water

Directions

1. Prepare the Raspberry Sauce:

In a small saucepan, add raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat, sieve to remove seeds, and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Oreo Crust:

Line the sides of an 8-inch (20 cm) springform pan with an acetate sheet and the bottom with parchment paper.
Crush Oreo cookies in a food processor and mix with melted butter and almond extract. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan and refrigerate.

3. Prepare Raspberry Yogurt Mousse:

Dissolve gelatin in cold water and let it swell for 5–10 minutes. Dissolve the gelatin over low heat and mix with the raspberry puree. Add Greek yogurt and mix well.
Whip the chilled whipping cream to stiff peaks and gently fold it into the raspberry yogurt mixture. Set aside.

4. Prepare Yogurt Almond Mousse:

Dissolve gelatin in cold water and let it swell for 5–10 minutes.
Mix Greek yogurt with almond extract and powdered sugar. Dissolve the gelatin and pour over the yogurt mixture.
Whip the chilled whipping cream to stiff peaks and gently fold it into the yogurt mixture.

5. Assemble the Cake:

Alternate spoonfuls of raspberry mousse and yogurt mousse into the prepared pan until all filling is used. Tap the pan to remove air bubbles and smooth the top. Refrigerate until the raspberry jelly is ready.

6. Prepare Raspberry Jelly:

Dissolve gelatin in 1 tbsp cold water and let it swell for 5 minutes.
Simmer raspberries and sugar for 2 minutes, then sieve to remove seeds. Dissolve gelatin over low heat and pour over the raspberry sauce. Mix to combine.

7. Final Assembly and Chilling:

Spread the raspberry jelly over the top of the cake.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight, to set.

8. Decorate and Serve:

Before serving, decorate with whipped cream, fresh raspberries, chocolate sticks, and fresh rosemary for a festive touch. Enjoy!

Nutrients

Calories: 338 kcal per serving
Carbohydrates: 32.6g
Protein: 7.5g
Fat: 20.7g
- Saturated Fat: 11.5g
Cholesterol: 57mg
Sugar: 23.4g

This no-bake raspberry yogurt zebra cake is a visually stunning and delicious dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering!

The Inspiration Behind the Zebra Cake

The zebra cake derives its name from the beautiful alternating layers of mousse that mimic the stripes of a zebra. This pattern is created by layering two contrasting flavors—raspberry yogurt mousse and yogurt almond mousse—over an Oreo almond crust. The result is a dessert that feels both luxurious and approachable.

Zebra cakes, in various forms, have long been a favorite for those who want a visually striking dessert without overly complicated techniques. This version takes it a step further by incorporating seasonal flavors and a glossy raspberry jelly topping, making it a showstopper at holiday tables.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

This No-Bake Raspberry Yogurt Zebra Cake has several qualities that make it irresistible:

No-Bake Convenience: Ideal for those who want a stunning dessert without turning on the oven.
Visually Impressive: The zebra pattern and glossy raspberry jelly make this cake look professionally crafted.
Light and Refreshing: The combination of yogurt and fresh raspberries ensures the cake isn’t overly heavy, making it perfect after a hearty meal.
Customizable: You can easily adapt the flavors, using different fruits or extracts to suit your preferences or the occasion.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The cake needs to chill for several hours, making it a great option for preparing in advance.

The Flavor Profile of No-Bake Raspberry Yogurt Zebra Cake

The No-Bake Raspberry Yogurt Zebra Cake is a medley of flavors and textures that come together harmoniously:

Tangy Raspberry Mousse: The tartness of raspberries balances the sweetness of the mousse, creating a refreshing and vibrant layer.
Creamy Almond Mousse: The subtle almond flavor in the yogurt mousse adds depth and a nutty undertone.
Oreo Crust: The rich, chocolatey base contrasts beautifully with the light mousse layers.
Raspberry Jelly Topping: A glossy, slightly tart jelly layer crowns the cake, adding a burst of color and flavor.

These elements work together to create a dessert that’s light, creamy, and perfectly balanced.

Perfect Occasions for Serving Zebra Cake

This versatile cake is suitable for various occasions, including:

Holiday Celebrations: Its festive look and refreshing flavors make it a favorite for Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter.
Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with its elegant appearance and sophisticated taste.
Family Gatherings: The cake’s light texture and balanced sweetness appeal to all age groups, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Special Milestones: Its stunning presentation makes it perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations.

The cake’s make-ahead nature also makes it convenient for hosting, as it allows you to focus on other aspects of the meal.

Tips for a Perfect No-Bake Raspberry Yogurt Zebra Cake

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly, keep the following tips in mind:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh or high-quality frozen raspberries to ensure vibrant flavor and color.
Chill Thoroughly: Allow each layer to set properly before adding the next to maintain distinct layers and avoid blending.
Create a Smooth Jelly Topping: Strain the raspberry jelly mixture to remove seeds for a glossy, smooth finish.
Work Quickly with Gelatin: Once gelatin is dissolved, incorporate it swiftly into the mousse mixtures to prevent clumping.
Tap to Remove Air Bubbles: Gently tapping the pan on the counter after adding each layer helps eliminate air pockets for a smooth finish.

These techniques ensure a professional-quality result that’s both visually stunning and delicious.

Creative Variations for Zebra Cake

While this recipe is delightful as is, you can customize it to suit your tastes or the season:

Fruity Twists: Substitute raspberries with strawberries, blueberries, or mango for a different flavor profile.
Chocolate Accents: Add a drizzle of dark chocolate over the jelly layer for added richness.
Nut-Free Option: Replace almond extract with vanilla or citrus zest for a nut-free version.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based yogurt, coconut cream, and agar-agar instead of gelatin to create a vegan-friendly cake.
Individual Servings: Prepare the mousse and jelly layers in small glasses or molds for an elegant, single-serving dessert.

These variations allow you to personalize the cake while keeping its charm intact.

Pairing Suggestions

The No-Bake Raspberry Yogurt Zebra Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments:

Beverages: Serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or a glass of chilled Moscato to complement the dessert’s fruity flavors.
Garnishes: Top with fresh mint leaves, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a refined finish.
Side Treats: Pair with almond biscotti or dark chocolate truffles for a decadent dessert platter.

These pairings enhance the overall dining experience, making your presentation even more memorable.

Storing and Serving Tips

Proper storage and serving techniques ensure your zebra cake stays fresh and looks its best:

Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld, making it even more delicious over time.
Freezing: The cake can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Serving Temperature: Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

These tips make the zebra cake a practical choice for both short-term and long-term enjoyment.

Conclusion

The No-Bake Raspberry Yogurt Zebra Cake is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and elegance in desserts. Its stunning zebra pattern, light mousse layers, and refreshing raspberry flavors make it a standout choice for any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or treating your family to something special, this cake promises to delight both the eyes and the taste buds.

Its no-bake preparation, customizable nature, and ability to be made ahead make it a versatile dessert that fits seamlessly into modern lifestyles. With its combination of flavor, texture, and visual appeal, the No-Bake Raspberry Yogurt Zebra Cake is destined to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try it for your next event and let it take center stage on your dessert table!

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