why make this recipe
Neapolitan Cake is a delightful treat that brings together three classic flavors: chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. This cake is perfect for celebrations and offers something for everyone. Its beautiful layers not only make it visually appealing but also delicious. It’s a fun way to enjoy a slice of nostalgia, reminiscent of the ice cream favorite that many loved as kids.
how to make Neapolitan Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup softened butter (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened, for frosting)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until everything is well combined.
- In another bowl, blend the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually mix this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
- Split the batter into three portions. Mix melted chocolate into one portion, pureed strawberries into another, and leave one as simple vanilla.
- Pour each flavored batter into its respective prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
- Once cooled, frost between the layers with cream cheese frosting and cover the entire cake after assembling.
how to serve Neapolitan Cake
Slice the Neapolitan Cake into generous pieces and serve it on a beautiful plate. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. You can also add fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings on top for an extra treat.
how to store Neapolitan Cake
To keep your Neapolitan Cake fresh, store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to two months.
tips to make Neapolitan Cake
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- It’s important not to overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a light texture.
- If you want stronger flavors, feel free to add a bit more chocolate or strawberries to the batter.
variation
You can create different flavor layers, like adding matcha for a green layer, or even using different berries for various fruity flavors. You can also switch the frosting for a chocolate ganache or whipped cream for lighter options.
FAQs
Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour if needed. Just check the package for the right measurement.
How can I make the cake more colorful?
You can use food coloring to enhance the colors of the layers, making them more vibrant and fun.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just frost them on the day you plan to serve for the best results.
Neapolitan Cake
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup softened butter for frosting
- 4 cups powdered sugar for frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened) for frosting
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, blend the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually mix this wet mixture into the dry ingredients, careful not to overmix.
- Split the batter into three portions: mix melted chocolate into one portion, pureed strawberries into the second, and leave the last one as vanilla.
- Pour each flavored batter into its respective prepared pan.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
Frosting
- Once cooled, frost between the layers with cream cheese frosting and cover the entire cake.
