why make this recipe
Neapolitan Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together three flavors in one bite. It is a fun cake that looks beautiful and tastes even better. This cake is great for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a party, or just a cozy family gathering. With its layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, it pleases everyone’s taste buds. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends and family with your baking skills!
how to make Neapolitan Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree
- Pinch of salt
- Buttercream frosting (for layering and decoration)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
- Divide the batter into three bowls.
- In the first bowl, add vanilla extract. In the second, mix in cocoa powder for the chocolate layer. In the third, add the strawberry puree for the strawberry layer.
- Pour each batter into its prepared cake pan.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, layer the cakes with buttercream frosting between each one and around the outside.
- Decorate as desired and serve.
how to serve Neapolitan Cake
Serve Neapolitan Cake at room temperature. You can slice it into generous pieces and place them on dessert plates. This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh strawberries on the side. For an added touch, top each slice with whipped cream.
how to store Neapolitan Cake
Store Neapolitan Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to cover it well to avoid it drying out. If you have leftover cake, you can also freeze it. Wrap slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
tips to make Neapolitan Cake
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for a better mix.
- Do not overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a lighter cake.
- For an easier cleanup, line the bottom of your cake pans with parchment paper.
- Use gel food coloring to make your layers more vibrant when adding color to the frosting.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
variation
Try adding different flavors to the layers! You can use lemon zest in the vanilla layer or use different fruit purees. You could also replace the buttercream with whipped cream for a lighter touch.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Frost them when you are ready to serve.
Q2: How do I know when the cake is done?
A2: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, the cake is done.
Q3: Can I use store-bought frosting instead of making my own?
A3: Absolutely! Store-bought frosting is a quick and easy option, and it will still taste great with the Neapolitan Cake.
Neapolitan Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened Make sure it’s room temperature
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 pieces eggs At room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Sifted
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup milk At room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree Fresh or store-bought
- Pinch pinches salt
Frosting
- to taste Buttercream frosting For layering and decoration
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
- Divide the batter into three bowls.
- In the first bowl, add vanilla extract; in the second, mix in cocoa powder for the chocolate layer; in the third, add strawberry puree for the strawberry layer.
- Pour each batter into its prepared cake pan.
Baking
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Layering and Decorating
- Once cooled, layer the cakes with buttercream frosting between each layer and around the outside.
- Decorate as desired and serve.