Neapolitan cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. With its vibrant layers, this cake is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual masterpiece that will take center stage at any gathering.
Imagine cutting into this colorful delight, where each layer offers a different flavor experience, sending your senses into overdrive and leaving everyone clamoring for another slice. It’s the kind of cake that shows up to parties and instantly steals the spotlight, all while whispering sweet nothings about its deliciousness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The neapolitan cake is easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels
- Its classic flavor combination pleases both kids and adults alike
- Each layer adds stunning visual appeal to your dessert table
- This versatile treat can be enjoyed at birthdays, picnics, or even as an afternoon snack with coffee
I remember the first time I made a neapolitan cake for my best friend’s birthday party. Everyone loved it so much that I thought I might need bodyguards to protect my leftovers!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for a light and fluffy texture; it’s the backbone of your cake.
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Cocoa Powder: Select a good quality unsweetened cocoa powder for rich chocolate flavor.
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Granulated Sugar: This sweetener balances out the flavors in your cake perfectly.
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Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh for maximum rise; no one likes a flat cake!
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Salt: A pinch enhances sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.
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Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
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Eggs: Large eggs help bind everything together and add moisture to your layers.
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Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates flavors; skip the imitation stuff if you can.
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Milk: Whole milk keeps your batter moist and delicious—no one wants a dry slice!
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Strawberry Jam or Puree: Adds natural sweetness and fruity flavor to the strawberry layer.
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Whipped Cream (for frosting): Light whipped cream gives your cake that dreamy finishing touch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Oven and Cake Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together : In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your cake.
Create Your Batter : In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Pour in vanilla extract and blend until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients Gradually : Alternate adding your flour mixture and milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; don’t overmix to keep it fluffy!
Separate Batter for Layers : Divide your batter into three bowls: leave one as-is for vanilla, mix cocoa powder into another for chocolate, and add strawberry jam or puree to the third bowl until fully incorporated.
Bake Your Cakes : Pour each batter into prepared pans evenly. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until toothpicks inserted in center come out clean. Let cakes cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Frosting Time!: Once cooled completely, stack your layers alternating flavors: chocolate first, then vanilla, followed by strawberry on top. Generously frost with whipped cream between layers and around the sides.
Add Some Finishing Touches : Decorate with fresh strawberries on top or drizzle some chocolate ganache over it if you’re feeling fancy! Slice into it like you’re cutting through pure happiness.
With every slice of this neapolitan cake comes memories of joy shared with friends and family. Enjoy this delightful dessert as you celebrate life’s sweet moments!
You Must Know
- The Neapolitan cake is a delightful blend of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors
- This vibrant treat not only pleases the eyes but also delivers a symphony of tastes
- It’s perfect for celebrations or just because you deserve a sweet escape!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your cake layers separately: bake vanilla first, then chocolate, and finally strawberry. Allow them to cool completely before frosting for a smooth finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the strawberry layer for raspberry if you prefer a tart twist. Adding fresh fruit to the frosting can elevate the flavor even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Neapolitan cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to refrigerate, cover it well to prevent drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and fluffier cake layers
- Don’t rush the cooling process; it prevents frosting from melting into the layers
- Experiment with different frostings like whipped cream or ganache for variety!
Memories flood back when I recall my niece’s birthday party; she squealed with delight upon seeing the colorful Neapolitan cake. Her joy made every layer worth it!
FAQ
Can I make Neapolitan cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the layers a day in advance and frost them just before serving.
What type of frosting works best?
Buttercream is traditional, but cream cheese or whipped cream also pairs wonderfully.
How do I prevent my cake from sinking?
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and don’t open the oven door while baking.
Neapolitan Cake
Neapolitan cake is a stunning dessert that harmoniously blends chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors. With its eye-catching layers and rich taste, this cake is perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings. Each slice offers a delightful flavor explosion, making it an instant crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup strawberry jam or puree
- Whipped cream (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and mix well. Stir in vanilla.
- Gradually add dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture until just combined.
- Divide the batter into three bowls: one plain for vanilla, one mixed with cocoa for chocolate, and one mixed with strawberry jam for strawberry.
- Pour each batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Once cooled, stack layers in order: chocolate at the bottom, then vanilla, followed by strawberry on top. Frost generously with whipped cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
