The sight of a beautifully layered Neapolitan Cake is enough to take your breath away, but it’s the alluring aroma of rich cocoa, sweet vanilla, and fruity strawberry that truly captivates the senses. I discovered this delightful creation one sunny afternoon while experimenting with leftover ingredients, and I’ve never looked back! Each slice reveals a trio of flavors that blend perfectly together, making it the ideal centerpiece for any celebration or a casual family gathering.
Baking this cake is a delightful journey, offering a perfect excuse to unleash your creativity in the kitchen. The vibrant layers not only delight the eyes but also promise to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just getting your feet wet in baking, this Neapolitan Cake is an easy and rewarding recipe that transforms ordinary moments into sweet memories. So, grab your mixing bowls and let’s dive into the world of indulgent flavors!
Why is Neapolitan Cake a must-try?
Indulgent layers: This Neapolitan Cake features luscious layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry that create an eye-catching and delectable dessert.
Endless customization: Feel free to swap flavors or add your favorite toppings, ensuring each creation is uniquely yours.
Simple yet stunning: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a show-stopper on your hands without the stress of complicated baking techniques.
Perfect for all occasions: Whether celebrating a birthday or enjoying family dinner, this cake adds joy and sweetness to any gathering.
Kid-approved: Its delightful flavors appeal to both children and adults, making it a hit with every guest! Get ready to impress with this delightful treat!
Neapolitan Cake Ingredients
For the Cake Layers
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; use unsweetened cocoa powder for best results—avoid Dutch-processed.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; feel free to swap with brown sugar for a hint of molasses flavor.
• Baking Powder – The leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal lift in the cake.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; a small pinch of kosher salt works beautifully.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients and provide structure; for a vegan option, consider using flax eggs.
• Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness; try almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; you can swap it with almond extract for a unique profile.
• Strawberry Puree – Infuses fruity flavor; use fresh blended strawberries or store-bought puree.
• Melted Chocolate – Boosts chocolate flavor in one layer; choose dark or semi-sweet based on preference.
For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – The base for your frosting; mascarpone cheese can be used for a different texture.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness to the frosting; adjust the amount to taste for desired sweetness.
How to Make Neapolitan Cake
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three round cake pans by greasing them with butter or lining them with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of cocoa powder, 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This will ensure a beautifully combined batter.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together 3 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well blended. Carefully add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
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Divide Batter: Split the batter evenly into three bowls. For the Chocolate Layer: Add ½ cup of melted chocolate to one bowl and mix until fully incorporated. For the Strawberry Layer: Add ½ cup of strawberry puree to the second bowl. Leave the third bowl as vanilla.
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Bake Layers: Pour each batter into its respective prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the layers to cool completely on wire racks.
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Frost and Assemble: Once your layers are completely cool, layer them with your cream cheese frosting, generously spreading it between the chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla layers. Finish by frosting the top and sides of the cake.
Optional: Garnish with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings for an extra touch of elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Neapolitan Cake layers are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time on the day of your celebration! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. To maintain their texture, refrigerate the layers until you are ready to frost and assemble. The cream cheese frosting can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, allow the layers to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then layer them with frosting, and voilà—you have a stunning dessert that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Neapolitan Cake?
After indulging in a slice of this vibrant dessert, consider rounding out your meal with delightful sides that enhance its lovely flavors.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy contrast, enhancing the rich layers of the cake beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a delightful and refreshing bite that balances the sweetness.
- Chocolate Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of warm chocolate syrup elevates the decadence and caters to chocolate lovers, creating a cozy and indulgent finish.
- Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a luscious and creamy combination that contrasts perfectly with the cake’s fluffy texture.
- Mint Tea: The light herbal notes of mint tea provide a refreshing palate cleanser, making every bite of cake even more enjoyable.
- Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee pairs beautifully, amplifying the cocoa notes in the cake while providing a warm and comforting touch.
- Milkshake: A thick strawberry or chocolate milkshake is a fun and playful way to complete your dessert adventure, delighting both kids and adults alike.
- Cheese Platter: Complement your cake with a selection of soft cheeses—the creamy textures and slight tang add a wonderful contrast to the sweet layers.
- Fruit Salad: A zesty fruit salad with citrus notes cuts through the sweet richness, adding a bright and invigorating element to your dessert spread.
- Sparkling Water: For a simple yet refreshing option, serve sparkling water with lemon or lime wedges that cleanse the palate and highlight the cake’s flavors beautifully.
Helpful Tricks for Neapolitan Cake
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better mixing, leading to a fluffier Neapolitan Cake.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix your batter just until combined to maintain a light and airy texture—overmixing can result in a dense cake.
Cool Completely: Allow each cake layer to cool completely before frosting; this prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and maintains a beautiful appearance.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking powder for optimal rise and flavor in your Neapolitan Cake; old ingredients can lead to flat layers.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment by swapping out strawberry puree for other fruits or using different extracts to make this cake your own!
Storage Tips for Neapolitan Cake
Room Temperature: Keep leftover Neapolitan Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, store the cake in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices of Neapolitan Cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Neapolitan Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your Neapolitan Cake with these delightful twists!
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Berry Swap: Replace strawberry puree with raspberry or blueberry puree for a fruity flavor explosion that still keeps the vibrant colors intact.
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Coconut Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of whole milk for a tropical twist that adds both richness and a hint of coconut flavor to your layers.
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Chocolate Boost: Mix in chocolate chunks or chips into the chocolate layer for an added texture that will take every bite over the top!
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Nutty Crunch: Crushed nuts like hazelnuts or almonds can be sprinkled between layers or on top to provide a delightful crunch alongside the creamy frosting.
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Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or even some espresso powder to the chocolate batter for a bold flavor kick that embraces the richness of cocoa.
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Layered Frosting: Instead of cream cheese frosting, try whipped cream or a buttercream frosting flavored with orange zest for a fresh and zesty finish.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, and use almond milk and coconut oil in place of milk and butter for a completely vegan version without compromising on taste.
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Seasonal Touch: Incorporate different seasonal fruits like peaches or mangoes instead of strawberries for an exciting and refreshing change throughout the year.
Neapolitan Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe strawberries for my Neapolitan Cake?
Look for strawberries that are bright red with a fragrant aroma and no dark spots or signs of mold. Ripe strawberries are firm yet slightly yielding to pressure. Avoid any berries that have a dull color or wrinkles, as they may not be sweet or flavorful.
How long can I store leftover Neapolitan Cake?
Store the leftover Neapolitan Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, securely wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture and avoid drying out.
Can I freeze slices of Neapolitan Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze individual slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. The cake can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
What should I do if my cake layers domed while baking?
If your cake layers have domed on top, don’t worry! Simply let them cool completely, then use a serrated knife to level the tops before frosting. This way, the layers will stack nicely, and your cake will have a beautiful, even appearance.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Neapolitan Cake?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk. For a vegan Neapolitan Cake, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Always check ingredients for potential allergens, especially if you’re serving guests with specific dietary needs.
Layered Neapolitan Cake: A Sweet Twist on Classic Flavors
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare 3 round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix eggs, milk, and vanilla until blended, then add to the dry ingredients.
- Divide batter into three bowls; mix melted chocolate in one, strawberry puree in another.
- Pour each batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, then cool on wire racks.
- Layer the cake with cream cheese frosting between layers; frost the top and sides.